Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
4.64189 reviews811 Cave Mountain Lake Road
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $20 to $40 per night depending on the season and site type. Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in-person. Discounts are available with Interagency Senior Annual Pass and Access Pass.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine 7-acre lake sparkling beneath forested peaks. Here, families gather on sandy shores for afternoon swims, cast lines into crystal-clear waters teeming with fish, and explore winding trails that reveal the area's natural splendor. This rustic mountain retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, with the legendary Natural Bridge and historic Lexington just a short drive away, offering the perfect blend of wilderness tranquility and cultural exploration.
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp offers tent camping, RV camping (without hookups), and group camping. Primitive camping features shaded, private setups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this recreational oasis from the wilderness, skillfully incorporating natural rock buttresses into their engineering marvel. Their legacy lives on in the carefully constructed dam and the lake it created, standing as a testament to Depression-era ingenuity and determination. Beyond the campground, history enthusiasts can explore the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge State Park, where Thomas Jefferson once owned the land, and wander through Lexington's storied streets, where the echoes of Civil War history and the traditions of Washington and Lee University create a rich cultural tapestry.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Cave Mountain Lake in distinct colors and moods. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms, while summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities under comfortably dry skies. Autumn transforms the surrounding hills into a tapestry of gold and crimson, with crisp air ideal for hiking. Winter settles over the valley with a quiet beauty, bringing frosty mornings and temperatures that dip below freezing, creating a serene landscape for those seeking solitude. Throughout the year, occasional rainfall refreshes the forest and fills the air with the earthy scent of mountain woods.
ElevationCradled in a protected valley embrace, the campground enjoys a unique microclimate where mountain breezes flow down from surrounding hills, bringing refreshing coolness even on summer days. This natural amphitheater setting not only moderates temperatures but creates ever-changing vistas as morning mists rise from the lake and evening shadows stretch across the grassy fields. The elevation provides stunning panoramic views of ridgelines that seem to roll on forever, offering photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities to capture the Blue Ridge's timeless beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryA landscape of contrasts unfolds at Cave Mountain Lake, where emerald forests give way to sun-dappled meadows that stretch down to the water's edge. Ancient rock formations stand sentinel over the valley, their weathered faces telling geological stories millions of years in the making. The centerpiece lake mirrors the sky and surrounding ridges, while grassy fields invite barefoot wandering and picnic spreads. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, from deer grazing at dawn to hawks circling overhead, creating a living canvas that changes with each passing hour.
Geological RegionDiscover the ancient heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where time has sculpted a perfect valley sanctuary for Cave Mountain Lake. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through dramatic rocky buttresses that the CCC incorporated into their 35-foot dam—a masterful blend of human engineering and natural architecture. The surrounding forested hills rise like protective guardians, their slopes carved by millennia of wind and water into the gentle curves that define Appalachian beauty. Grassy fields carpet the valley floor, creating open spaces that contrast beautifully with the dense woodland canopy, while the underlying geology tells the story of continental collisions and ancient seas that shaped this mountain paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes one handicap-accessible shower and flush toilets. Accessibility to trails and certain sites is mentioned but not fully detailed.
Sites SizeSites are spacious, with most accommodating multiple tents or large setups. Campsite #41-42 is a double site accommodating up to 12 people.
Sites PrivacySites are described as shaded, private, and well-spaced. "The campsites are spaced out well and fairly private," according to one reviewer. Another noted, "Spacious and private lots."
Total Campsites41 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose creekside sites such as #30. For accessibility, site #20 is a pull-through. Double sites #41-42 are ideal for larger groups.
Best CampsitesCampsites #20, #41-42, and #30 are highly recommended. Site #20 is a pull-through near the bathhouse. Sites #41-42 are double sites offering privacy and space. Site #30 is adjacent to a creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site, 12 guests in double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLaid out over loops with creekside sites and areas near the bathhouse. Sites are generally spacious, with some pull-through options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from April 1 to October 30 annually. The campground is closed from October 31 to March 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come, first-served sites are available. All sites require prior reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 fee plus forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations (after midnight on the day before arrival) also lose the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities include swimming, youth-only fishing (April 1 to June 15), regular fishing season, birding, photography, wildlife viewing, and hiking. The trails provide access to scenic views and range from short walks to strenuous hikes. "The Wildcat Trail starts above campsites #41-42 and loops back," noted one source.
Hiking
Hiking trails surround the area, including the Panther Knob Trail and Wildcat Trail, as well as access to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. "The trails are well maintained and decently strenuous," one user noted.Fishing
Fishing is available in the lake, which is trout-stocked for youth-only fishing from April 1 to June 15. "Plenty of fish jumping," and "Would love to fish once it's allowed," noted reviewers.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in a designated area of Cave Mountain Lake, including a sandy beach. "Perfect little lake with a small beach," described one user.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities include birding and observing other wildlife. "We even saw some deer in the evening and early morning," noted one reviewer.Beach activities
Includes sunbathing and enjoying the sandy beach. "The beach and swimming area is scenic and a good place to cool off," noted one reviewer.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed.Water Sports
Limited to kayaking and paddleboarding outside of the swimming area. Motorized boats are prohibited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are provided at each site, but only locally-sourced firewood is permitted to prevent the spread of pests. Generators are restricted during quiet hours.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears and snakes are present. Visitors must store food securely and watch out for flooded creek conditions during heavy rains.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Lexington, VA, approximately 20 minutes away. These include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 30 annually
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are mentioned as clean and well-maintained. Recycling specifics are not described.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located beside Cave Mountain Lake and features a creek running through the campsites. Swimming and fishing are popular activities.
Common complaintsSome visitors reported noise during quiet hours, crowded showers, and challenges with site accessibility for larger vehicles. A few reviewers noted campsite hosts being overly vigilant.
HostVolunteer campground hosts are available and praised for their friendliness and support. Hosts ensure clean facilities and enforce regulations.
Campground Map
811 Cave Mountain Lake Road
Driving directionsFrom I-81 North, take Exit 175 just south of Natural Bridge. Go north on U.S. Highway 11. Turn right at the Natural Bridge parking lot onto Route 130 East. Continue for approximately 4 miles to Natural Bridge Station. Turn right onto State Route 759 and continue for about 3 miles, then turn right again onto State Route 781. Turn left into the recreation area, then bear left at the Y intersection and continue into the campground. From I-81 South, take exit 180 (left exit) and continue south to Natural Bridge. Turn left onto Route 130 East and continue following the above directions.
The campground is easily accessible from major roads and interstates, particularly I-81, with less than 10 miles of travel required. However, some visitors caution against reliance on Google Maps for navigation as it may direct them onto one-lane logging roads. Follow posted signs for Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area instead.Nearby places
Lexington, VA - 20 minutes (approx. 10 miles)
Natural Bridge State Park - 8 miles (approx. 15 minutes)
Buchanan, VA - approx. 20 miles
Buena Vista, VA - approx. 20 miles.
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies such as ice and firewood can be found at small stores along State Route 759 or at local homes near State Route 781 selling firewood for $10 per wheelbarrow. Fuel and additional groceries are available in Lexington, VA.
Camper Reviews
4.6
189 reviews
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users frequently praise the cleanliness, scenic beauty, and peaceful nature of the campground. Hosts are described as helpful and friendly. Criticisms include issues with noisy neighbors and lack of sinks for dishwashing.
Review Summaries
Based on 189 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly hosts, spacious sites, scenic beauty including streams and the lake, peaceful environment, well-maintained trails.
Based on 189 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of dishwashing stations, occasional noise during quiet hours, sporadic cell service, and poorly maintained fire pits.
Based on 189 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Buy firewood outside the campground, bring dishwashing gear, and plan for no cell service. Creeks provide calming background noise.
Based on 189 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight swimming and shaded sites for comfort. Fall reviews note scenic foliage and quiet atmosphere. Spring reviews focus on hiking and youth fishing opportunities. Winter reviews...
Based on 189 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wow, and I mean Wow! I can't believe I have lived 40 minutes from this hidden gem," "The bathrooms were well maintained and appeared to be cleaned daily!" "Definitely a hidden gem off the beaten...
Based on 189 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #41-42 (double site, spacious), Campsite #20 (near bathhouse), Campsite #1 (two entrances, shaded but less privacy).
Based on 189 reviewsAccessibility Features
One handicap-accessible shower is available. Some trails accessible from campsites, but further details on disability-friendly features are missing.
Based on 189 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Users noted friendly policies and pet-friendly setups.
Based on 189 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025