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Claytor Lake State Park Virginia (VA) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Claytor Lake State Park is a prime spot for RV camping, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities. The park’s history dates back to the 1930s, when the Appalachian Power Company constructed a hydroelectric dam on the New River, creating the 4,500-acre lake that now serves as the park’s centerpiece. The lake’s creation also led to the displacement of several local communities, adding a layer of cultural significance to the park’s story.

Natural occurrences such as erosion and sedimentation have contributed to the lake’s unique features, including its clear waters and abundant fish population. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a popular destination for anglers.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Claytor Lake State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Claytor Lake State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

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Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Visitors to Claytor Lake State Park can access the park via private vehicle with several entrances located around the lake. The main entrance is located off of Route 100 and there are also entrances off of Routes 615 and 700. There are no restrictions on rig sizes making it easy for RV renters of all types to access the park. However visitors should be aware that some of the park’s roads are narrow and winding so caution should be exercised when driving larger vehicles.

  • Parking area

RVs are welcome at the park with designated parking areas available. Overnight parking outside of campsites is not permitted. RV camping is recommended and using alternative transportation methods for park exploration can enhance the experience.

  • Public Transportation

Claytor Lake State Park offers walking paths and hiking trails for getting around. There are no shuttle buses available. Visitors can easily explore the park on foot with scenic trails leading to popular spots. Biking is also an option with bike rentals available during peak season.

Top Campsites in Claytor Lake State Park

  • Reservations camping

If you’re planning a trip to beautiful Claytor Lake State Park and looking for the best campsites that require reservations you’ve come to the right place! Here are the top 4 most popular campsites in order of popularity

Draper’s Landing Campground

With 64 sites this campground is perfect for RVs and trailers up to 45 feet. Open from March to December it offers a variety of amenities including a swimming beach boat ramp and playground. Pets are welcome and activities such as fishing boating and hiking are popular among visitors.

Haven’s Landing Campground

Featuring 30 sites this campground is ideal for smaller RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and laundry facilities. Pets are allowed and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

Goose Point Campground

This campground offers 22 sites and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. Open from April to October it features amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and playground. Pets are welcome and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

Twin Ridge Campground

With 25 sites this campground is perfect for tent camping or smaller RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and playground. Pets are allowed and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

  • First-come first-served

If you’re looking for campgrounds that operate on a first-come first-served basis Claytor Lake State Park has several options to choose from. Here are 3 campgrounds that don’t require reservations

McCormick’s Cove Campground

This campground offers 51 sites and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. It’s open year-round and offers amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and playground. Pets are welcome and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

Big Spring Campground

With 10 sites this campground is ideal for tent camping or smaller RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and playground. Pets are allowed and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

Hawk Circle Campground

This campground offers 14 sites and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a boat ramp fishing pier and playground. Pets are welcome and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing boating and hiking.

  • Alternate camping

If you’re looking for alternative camping options near Claytor Lake State Park there are several private campgrounds and backcountry camping options to consider. Here are a few options

Claytor Lake Water Sports

This private campground offers cabins RV sites and tent sites. It’s located on the shores of Claytor Lake and offers amenities such as a swimming beach boat rentals and a restaurant. Pets are welcome and the campground is open year-round.

New River Junction Campground

Located on the New River this private campground offers RV sites tent sites and cabins. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a swimming pool playground and laundry facilities. Pets are welcome.

Backcountry Camping

If you’re looking for a more rustic camping experience consider backcountry camping in the nearby Jefferson National Forest. Permits are required and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles. Pets are allowed but they must be kept on a leash.

  • General activities

Claytor Lake State Park is a hotspot for outdoorsy RV campers who love recreational activities. Here are the top five popular activities at the park

Boating

Claytor Lake is the ideal place for boating enthusiasts. The park offers boat rentals and visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride on the lake or engage in water sports such as water skiing and wakeboarding. The boat launch area is located near the park’s visitor center.

Hiking

With over 12 miles of trails Claytor Lake State Park is a hiker’s paradise. The park’s trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests. The Claytor Lake Trail is one of the most popular trails and it offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the lake.

Fishing

Claytor Lake is home to a variety of fish species including bass catfish and crappie. The park offers fishing from the shore or by boat and visitors can fish from the pier or rent a boat. The best fishing spots are near the dam and the marina.

Biking

The park’s trails are also popular for biking. The Claytor Lake Trail offers a scenic ride with moderate terrain and the park’s roads are also popular for biking. Bikers can enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding forests.

Geocaching

Geocaching is a popular activity at Claytor Lake State Park. Visitors can use their GPS devices to find hidden treasures throughout the park. The park offers several geocaches including some that are only accessible by boat.

  • Alternative activities

For RV campers who prefer alternative activities Claytor Lake State Park has plenty to offer. Here are the top five popular alternative activities at the park

Nature Watching

Claytor Lake State Park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer turkey and bald eagles. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park’s trails or take a guided nature tour to learn more about the park’s wildlife.

Sightseeing

The park’s scenic views are a must-see for any visitor. The park offers several overlooks including the popular Claytor Lake Overlook which offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Picnicking

The park’s picnic areas offer a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The park’s picnic shelters are available for rent and the park offers several grills and picnic tables.

Swimming

The park’s swimming beach is a popular spot for visitors who want to cool off during the summer months. The beach is located near the park’s visitor center and offers a designated swimming area with lifeguards on duty.

Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities

Claytor Lake State Park offers several Instagram-worthy photo opportunities including the park’s scenic views wildlife and historic structures. Visitors can take a selfie at the park’s overlook or capture a photo of the park’s historic hydroelectric dam.

Season-specific experiences in Claytor Lake State Park

  • Spring activities

Spring at Claytor Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular attraction is the Hiking Trail System which features 3 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. The trails take you through beautiful forests and offer scenic views of the lake. Another must-see is the historic Howe House a fully restored 19th-century home that now serves as a museum and interpretive center. Visitors can learn about the history of the area and see artifacts from the past. For those looking to get out on the water the park offers boat rentals and fishing opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of fish including bass catfish and crappie. Lastly the park also hosts regular bird watching events where visitors can spot a variety of migratory birds.

  • Summer activities

Summer at Claytor Lake State Park is the perfect time for outdoor recreation. The park’s swimming beach is a popular spot for families to cool off and enjoy the sun. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season. The lake is also ideal for boating and water sports. Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities and the park offers rentals for both. Visitors can also enjoy fishing from the shore or from a boat. The park’s Marina offers boat slips for rent and a boat launch for easy access to the water. The park also offers several picnic areas with grills and tables making it the perfect spot for a summer barbecue. For those looking to learn something new the park offers summer programs such as nature hikes and educational workshops.

  • Fall activities

In the fall Claytor Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular option is hiking the trails which offer stunning views of the changing leaves. The park has over 12 miles of trails including the Claytor Lake Trail which is a 3.5-mile loop that takes you through the forest and along the lake shore.

Another must-see landmark is the historic Huffaker Cabin which dates back to the 1850s. The cabin is open for tours and offers a glimpse into life in the 19th century.

Fishing is also a popular activity in the fall as the cooler weather brings out the fish. The park has several fishing piers and boat ramps making it easy to cast a line.

For those looking for a more adventurous activity the park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. Visitors can explore the lake and take in the fall foliage from the water.

Finally the park hosts several fall events including the annual Fall Festival which features live music food vendors and activities for the whole family.

  • Winter activities

When the winter months roll around Claytor Lake State Park transforms into a winter wonderland. One popular activity is ice fishing as the lake freezes over and provides ample opportunities to catch fish such as bass and crappie.

Another winter activity is hiking as the trails offer a different perspective when covered in snow. The park also has cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails for those looking for a more active winter adventure.

The park’s wildlife is also more active in the winter and visitors can often spot birds such as bald eagles and waterfowl.

For those looking to stay warm the park has a heated campground and cabins available for rent.

Finally the park hosts several winter events including the annual Christmas in the Park which features holiday lights and decorations throughout the park.

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