If you’re an avid camper, it’s hard to beat the summer months. Sunshine and warm weather provide the perfect backdrop for hiking through mountains, swimming in streams and telling stories around campfires. Donning twenty-eight state parks and almost 2,000 campsites, Virginia is one of the best places to be if you’re in the United States and looking for a great time outdoors. What about Virginia makes it such an amazing place to camp? Where are some stunning spots that you won’t want to miss this summer?
1. Sky Meadows State Park; Deplane
What better place to camp than in the Blue Ridge Mountains? With sprawling green grass and blue skies that extend miles out, there are few prettier places to set up a tent and sleep outdoors than in Sky Meadows State Park. Hiking and bicycle trails wrap around all throughout the land, and the streams are a fisherman’s dream. Surround yourself in nature in the best way possible when you spend time camping in this stunning location.
2. False Cape State Park; Virginia Beach
Are you more of an ocean kind of person, but not interested in the boardwalk scene that lies within Virginia Beach? You might be surprised and what more this city has to offer. False Cape State Park lies on the Atlantic and is one of the last undeveloped places on the coast. You won’t want to miss out on kayaking while you’re here – the naturally magnificent view along the Atlantic is something you should definitely experience.
3. Loft Mountain Campground; Shenandoah National Park
Breathtaking views from Loft Mountain cascade through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Experience waterfalls like never before and take this time to really revel in the wildlife around you. You could see black bears, wild turkeys, and birds you may not recognize. Perched atop Big Flat Mountain, the incredible panoramic views will extend for miles.
4. Bear Creek Lake State Park; Cumberland
Bear Creek Lake State Park offers many different activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy outdoors. Equipped with a fishing pier and a boat launch, Bear Creek Lake is fun for everyone involved. From hiking to archery, it’s difficult not to have a great time while camping here.
A Note on Safety
With summer being a much busier time for vehicles on the road, it’s important to exercise even more caution this season. When you’re traveling along the winding back roads of the mountains and other camping locations this summer, stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you. According to the Kendall Law Firm, causes for car accidents can range from drunk to distracted driving, speeding and driving aggressively to driving while fatigued. The important things are to listen to how you’re feeling, stay alert, use caution, and be conscientious of other drivers on the road.
This article for VirginiaBeach.com is courtesy of Donna Fitzgerald.
