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Douthat State Park Virginia (VA) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Douthat State Park: A Prime RV Camping Destination with Rich History and Unique Natural Features

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, Douthat State Park offers a serene and picturesque setting for RV camping enthusiasts. Established in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park boasts a rich history and cultural significance. Its unique natural features, such as the stunning Douthat Lake and cascading waterfalls, are the result of ancient geological processes and the convergence of various ecosystems.

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 Douthat State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Douthat 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

Getting to Douthat State Park

Transportation Options and Rig Size Restrictions

Douthat State Park is easily accessible by private vehicle with multiple entrances located along State Route 629 and State Route 66

Visitors can choose from two main parking areas both of which offer easy access to the park’s facilities and trails. RVs and other large vehicles are welcome but there are some restrictions on rig sizes. The maximum length for RVs is 40 feet and all vehicles must adhere to the park’s speed limit and other traffic regulations.

  • Parking area

RV parking is available at the park with designated areas for RVs throughout. Overnight parking for RVs is restricted to designated campsites only. Camping with an RV and using alternative transportation methods to explore the park is highly recommended.

  • Public Transportation

Public transportation options within the park include shuttle buses and walking paths. Shuttle buses operate during peak season and provide transportation to popular areas of the park. Walking paths are also available and are a great way to explore the park at a leisurely pace.

Top Campsites in Douthat State Park

  • Reservations camping

The most popular campsites within or near Douthat State Park that require reservations are

Douthat State Park Campground

This campground is the closest to the park’s main attractions offering 87 sites for tents and RVs. It’s pet-friendly and amenities include hot showers restrooms and a camp store. RVs up to 40 feet are welcome and the campground is open from March to November. Activities include hiking biking swimming and fishing.

Lake Moomaw Campground

Located about 30 minutes from Douthat State Park this campground has 32 sites including some with electric hookups. It’s pet-friendly and offers picnic tables grills and restrooms. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted and the campground is open from May to October. Activities include boating fishing and hiking.

Hearthstone Lodge and Cabins

This campground is a 20-minute drive from Douthat State Park and offers 20 RV sites with full hookups. It’s pet-friendly and amenities include a swimming pool hot tub and game room. RVs of all sizes are welcome and the campground is open year-round. Activities include hiking fishing and horseback riding.

Gathright Dam Campground

Located about 45 minutes from Douthat State Park this campground has 30 sites for tents and RVs. It’s pet-friendly and offers picnic tables grills and restrooms. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted and the campground is open from April to October. Activities include boating fishing and hiking.

  • First-come first-served

First-come-first-served campgrounds in Douthat State Park include

Tent-Only Campground

This campground has 10 primitive sites for tents only. It’s pet-friendly and amenities include picnic tables grills and restrooms. The campground is open from May to October.

Backcountry Camping

Douthat State Park offers several backcountry camping sites for those who want a more rustic experience. Permits are required and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry.

White Oak Campground

This campground has 25 sites for tents and RVs on a first-come-first-served basis. It’s pet-friendly and amenities include picnic tables grills and restrooms. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted and the campground is open from May to October.

  • Alternate camping

Alternative camping options near Douthat State Park include

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds near Douthat State Park including the Clifton Forge KOA and the Natural Bridge KOA. These campgrounds offer full hookups amenities like swimming pools and playgrounds and activities like mini-golf and hayrides.

Backcountry Camping

For those who want a more rugged camping experience the nearby George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer backcountry camping opportunities. Permits are required and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed in some areas of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. This means camping outside of designated campgrounds and campers must follow strict rules to protect the environment.

  • General activities

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular activities for RV campers at Douthat State Park. With over 40 miles of hiking trails there is something for every level of hiker. The trails wind through the park’s scenic mountain terrain offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and lake. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Beard’s Gap Trail which leads to a beautiful waterfall and the Tuscarora Overlook Trail which offers panoramic views of the park. The trails are well-marked and maintained making it easy for campers to navigate.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another popular activity for RV campers at Douthat State Park. The park’s 20 miles of mountain biking trails offer a challenging and exciting ride through the park’s rugged terrain. The trails vary in difficulty from beginner-friendly to expert-level so there is something for every skill level. Some of the most popular mountain biking trails include the Blue Suck Falls Trail which features steep climbs and fast descents and the Laurel Run Trail which winds through dense forest and over rocky terrain.

Fishing

Fishing is a favorite pastime for many RV campers at Douthat State Park. The park’s 50-acre lake is stocked with trout bass and catfish making it a popular spot for anglers of all ages and skill levels. The lake’s peaceful setting surrounded by mountains and forest makes for a relaxing and enjoyable fishing experience. Fishing is allowed from the shore or from a boat and the park rents fishing boats and supplies.

Swimming

Swimming is a great way to cool off during the hot summer months at Douthat State Park. The park’s sandy beach is the perfect spot for swimming sunbathing and building sandcastles. The beach is located on the lake’s north shore and is easily accessible from the campground. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season and the park offers swimming lessons for children.

Camping

Camping is of course the main attraction for RV campers at Douthat State Park. The park’s campground features 87 campsites all of which are equipped with electric and water hookups as well as picnic tables and fire rings. The campground is located in a beautiful wooded area offering a peaceful and serene setting. The park also offers cabins for rent which are perfect for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience.

  • Alternative activities

Alternative Activities

For RV campers who prefer less strenuous activities Douthat State Park offers a variety of options. Sightseeing is a popular activity with the park’s scenic mountain views and beautiful lake providing a stunning backdrop. Nature watching is also a popular pastime with the park’s diverse wildlife including deer turkey and bear. There are several scenic overlooks throughout the park that offer breathtaking views and are perfect for photography. The park also offers a variety of ranger-led programs including guided hikes nature walks and birdwatching tours.

Bird Watching

Douthat State Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 100 species of birds calling the park home. The park’s diverse habitats including forests wetlands and meadows provide the perfect environment for a variety of bird species. Some of the most commonly spotted birds include the American goldfinch the tufted titmouse and the red-tailed hawk. The park offers several birdwatching trails as well as guided birdwatching tours.

Scenic Drives

For those who prefer to take in the park’s scenery from the comfort of their RV Douthat State Park offers several scenic drives. The park’s winding roads offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests as well as access to several scenic overlooks. The park’s most popular scenic drive is the Mountain Vista Loop which offers panoramic views of the park and surrounding countryside.

Photography

Douthat State Park is a photographer’s dream with its stunning mountain views scenic lake and diverse wildlife. The park offers several scenic overlooks that are perfect for photography as well as several hiking trails that offer unique perspectives on the park’s beauty. The park’s diverse wildlife also provides ample opportunities for wildlife photography.

Season-specific experiences in Douthat State Park

  • Spring activities

Spring is a great time to visit Douthat State Park in Virginia especially for RV campers. Here are five recreational activities landmarks and famous attractions that draw RV campers to the park during this season

Wildflower Hikes

The park is home to more than 20 miles of hiking trails many of which offer breathtaking views of wildflowers in bloom during the spring. The Beard’s Gap Trail and the Blue Suck Falls Trail are two popular options for wildflower hikes.

Fishing

Douthat Lake is stocked with a variety of fish including trout bass and catfish. The lake is open for fishing from early spring through late fall and the park offers boat rentals for anglers who want to fish from the water.

Horseback Riding

The park’s 23 miles of horseback riding trails offer a unique way to explore the park’s natural beauty. The Stony Run Trail and the Mountaintop Trail are two popular options for horseback riding.

Visiting the Douthat State Park Lodge

The park’s historic lodge was built in the 1930s and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lodge has a restaurant a gift shop and a pool making it a great place to relax after a day of outdoor activities.

Visiting the Douthat State Park Farm

The park’s working farm is open to visitors during the spring offering a glimpse into life on a rural farm. Visitors can see farm animals learn about sustainable farming practices and even purchase fresh produce.

  • Summer activities

Summer is the busiest season at Douthat State Park and it’s easy to see why. Here are five recreational activities landmarks and famous attractions that draw RV campers to the park during the summer months

Swimming

Douthat Lake has two sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming. The lake is also popular for boating water skiing and tubing.

Mountain Biking

The park’s 40 miles of mountain biking trails offer a challenging and fun way to explore the park’s natural beauty. The Tuscarora Overlook Trail and the Wilson Creek Trail are two popular options for mountain biking.

Visiting the Douthat State Park Observatory

The park’s observatory offers stargazing programs throughout the summer. Visitors can see the night sky through high-powered telescopes and learn about celestial objects from knowledgeable staff.

Hiking to Douthat Falls

The park’s most famous natural landmark is Douthat Falls a 60-foot waterfall that can be reached via a moderate 3-mile hike. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.

Visiting the Douthat State Park Campground

The park’s campground offers 83 campsites 20 of which are reserved for RV campers. The campground is located near the lake and offers easy access to the park’s recreational activities.

  • Fall activities

Fall is a great time to visit Douthat State Park especially for RV campers who want to experience the beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. Here are five recreational activities landmarks and famous historical places that attract RV campers during the fall season

Hiking to Tuscarora Overlook

This moderate 1.5-mile hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and fall foliage. The overlook is located near the park’s campground making it easily accessible for RV campers.

Fishing at Douthat Lake

The park’s 50-acre lake is stocked with trout bass and catfish making it a popular spot for fishing. RV campers can rent boats or fish from the shore.

Visiting the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum

The park was built by the CCC in the 1930s and the museum showcases the history and legacy of the program. RV campers can learn about the park’s construction and the impact of the CCC on conservation efforts.

Taking a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The parkway runs through the park and offers stunning views of the fall foliage. RV campers can take a leisurely drive and stop at overlooks for photo opportunities.

Participating in the annual Fall Festival

The park hosts a fall festival each year featuring live music craft vendors and food trucks. RV campers can enjoy the festivities and meet other campers.

  • Winter activities

Winter is also a great time to visit Douthat State Park with several recreational activities and landmarks that attract RV campers. Here are five activities to consider

Cross-Country Skiing

The park offers over 9 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing ranging from beginner to advanced levels. RV campers can rent equipment and enjoy the winter scenery.

Ice Fishing

Douthat Lake is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. RV campers can rent ice fishing equipment and try their luck at catching trout bass and catfish.

Visiting the Park’s Waterfalls

The park has several waterfalls that are accessible during the winter months. RV campers can hike to the falls and enjoy the winter scenery.

Stargazing

The park’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. RV campers can enjoy the clear skies and see constellations and planets.

Visiting the nearby Historic Homestead

The nearby town of Clifton Forge is home to the historic Homestead Preserve which features a restored 18th-century home and several outbuildings. RV campers can take a tour and learn about the area’s history.

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