Buffalo Park
4.66118 reviews5199 Carter's Point Road, Buffalo Junction, VA 24529
Buffalo Park
$24.00 - $68.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$34.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24 for primitive sites to $68 for double RV sites with electric hookups. Additional fees for changes, cancellations, and no-shows apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of John H. Kerr Reservoir, Buffalo Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront tranquility and modern comfort. This lakeside haven offers 21 thoughtfully positioned campsites, ranging from 11 electric sites (including one spacious double site perfect for larger groups) to 10 primitive sites for those seeking a more rustic experience. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, taking a refreshing dip at the swim beach, or simply unwinding under the stars, you'll appreciate the convenience of hot showers and flush toilets after a full day of adventure.
Buffalo Park offers diverse camping options, catering to both primitive and RV campers. It includes tent sites, electric RV sites, and a double RV site for groups.
Historical SignificanceJust 7 miles from your campsite lies a fascinating piece of American history at Buffalo Springs Park, designated as both a Virginia State and National Historic Site. This legendary location once drew visitors from across the nation seeking the healing properties of its naturally carbonated lithia waters, bottled and celebrated for their therapeutic qualities. Today's campers can explore this historic spring and imagine the bygone era when people traveled great distances to experience these mysterious waters.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens Buffalo Park with blooming wildflowers and perfect fishing conditions, while summer transforms the campground into a vibrant hub of water sports and family fun. The mild seasonal weather creates an outdoor paradise where warm days invite endless lake activities and cool evenings are perfect for campfire stories. Peak summer temperatures make every swim more refreshing and every sunset more spectacular.
ElevationThe campground's gentle lakeside elevation provides easy access to both water activities and woodland trails, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring the diverse landscapes of the John H. Kerr Reservoir region without the challenges of steep terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to misty mornings where 50,000 acres of shimmering water stretch to the horizon, framed by an emerald tapestry of 48,000 acres of hardwood and pine forests. Buffalo Park sits at nature's crossroads, where the mighty Roanoke River converges with the Dan, creating a water wonderland that changes personality with each season. From your campsite, watch herons fish in the shallows, eagles soar overhead, and spectacular sunsets paint the sky in brilliant hues reflected across the vast reservoir.
Geological RegionBuffalo Park occupies a prime position within the magnificent John H. Kerr Reservoir ecosystem, also known as Buggs Island Lake. This remarkable geological canvas showcases the dramatic transformation of river valleys into one of the Southeast's largest lakes, where 50,000 acres of water carve through ancient landscapes. The surrounding 48,000 acres of mixed hardwood and pine forests tell the story of the region's natural heritage, creating a diverse habitat that supports abundant wildlife and offers endless exploration opportunities for curious campers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo of the electric sites are paved and accessible. Bathhouses offer private individual rooms that accommodate campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSite sizes are varied. Electric sites are more spacious, and gravel bases prevent mud during rain. "Space was large enough for our 8-person tent." (User Review by Morgan Bauer).
Sites PrivacySites provide limited privacy, particularly the primitive and waterfront campsites. "The spaces are a little tight and not very private." (User Review by Billy McGowan).
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites are ideal for fishing and kayaking but lack shade; bring canopies for sun protection.
Best CampsitesSites 1-4 offer private water access; Site 22 is noted for its large space and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights per 30-day period
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into primitive sites near the lake and electric hookup sites slightly elevated above the shoreline.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - September 30. Closed October 1 - April 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityBoth primitive and electric sites are reservable online, limiting walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows are subject to a $20 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Buffalo Park offers a diverse array of activities including fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Kerr Lake provides opportunities for water sports, such as kayaking and jet skiing. The Staunton River State Park nearby is a certified Dark Sky park, excellent for stargazing.
Hiking
Year-round hiking opportunities are available in the Wildlife Management Areas surrounding Kerr Lake. Some users noted nearby hiking trails like Staunton River Park, which is accessible by driving.Fishing
Fishing is widely popular at Kerr Lake with species such as large-mouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. "Great catfish fishing." (User Review by Wendy Johnson).Swimming
A swim beach is part of the day-use area, and some waterfront campsites allow direct water access. "Easy access to the lake, beautiful scenery." (User Review by Stephanie H).Boating
Buffalo Park features a boat ramp and trailer parking. Boating activities include kayaking, canoeing, jetskiing, and pontoon rentals from nearby facilities.Wildlife viewing
The park provides opportunities for birding and observing resident wildlife such as wood ducks and Canadian geese. "The Staunton River State Park nearby is a certified Dark Sky park, excellent for stargazing." (User Review by Miranda D).Beach activities
The swim beach offers sand and water access for campers and day-use visitors.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are common due to the proximity to Kerr Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Standard fire rings are provided at campsites. Fires are restricted to designated areas.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSome campsites lack shade, posing a risk of sun exposure. Poison ivy and logs may obstruct access to the water.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 available in Clarksville, VA, which includes medical facilities and law enforcement.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are not provided at campsites, but there is a dumpster near the check-in area. "No trash cans at the campsites, so bring a can and pick up after yourself." (User Review by Deb McCormick).
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Kerr Reservoir, offering boat ramp access and lakefront campsites.
Common complaintsReviews mention issues with cleanliness at the beach, tight RV spaces, and limited shade at waterfront sites.
HostHosts like Ross and Barbara are often praised for being helpful and accommodating.
Campground Map
5199 Carter's Point Road, Buffalo Junction, VA 24529
Driving directionsBuffalo Park is approximately 10 miles west of Clarksville, VA. For access, follow Carter's Point Road to reach the campground.
The roads leading to the campground are paved, but the entrance can be tight for larger RVs.Nearby places
Clarksville, VA - 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes)
Boydton, VA - 25 miles (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and gas are accessible in Clarksville, VA, approximately 10 miles away from Buffalo Park.
Camper Reviews
4.7
118 reviews
Buffalo Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users reported Buffalo Park as a peaceful, well-maintained campground with clean facilities and beautiful waterfront views. Some concerns included trash and tight spaces at certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 118 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean showers and bathrooms, waterfront camping sites, friendly staff, family-oriented atmosphere, convenient lake access.
Based on 118 reviewsCommon Concerns
Trash and debris in some areas, limited shade at waterfront sites, tight RV spaces, occasional issues with shower water temperature.
Based on 118 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a canopy for shade, especially at waterfront campsites; book in advance; bring trash bags for campsite cleanup; visit nearby Buffalo Springs Park.
Based on 118 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlighted warm water temperatures and increased lake recreational activities. Fall reviews emphasized quietness and cleanliness after peak season crowds subsided.
Based on 118 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The waterfront campsite is perfectly beautiful; you will feel like you are staying on your own beach." (User Review by Tia Artis). "Bathrooms were clean, hot water is available." (User Review by...
Based on 118 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1: "Ground not exactly level." Site #4: "Nice views and spacious." Site #15: "Steps leading to water are ideal for fit individuals."
Based on 118 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible paved RV sites and private shower rooms make the campground friendly for campers with disabilities.
Based on 118 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and many users enjoyed camping with their dogs. "Found lots of fur babies." (User Review by Donald F).
Based on 118 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025