Rudds Creek Rec. Ar.
4.63429 reviews16064 Highway 58, Boydton, VA 23917
Rudds Creek Rec. Ar.
$24.00 - $68.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
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
Peak season fees range from $24.00 to $68.00 depending on site type.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of John H. Kerr Reservoir, Rudds Creek Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront beauty and woodland tranquility. This beloved campground welcomes both tent campers seeking a connection with nature and RV travelers looking for modern conveniences, all while providing direct access to one of the Southeast's premier recreational lakes. From sunrise fishing expeditions to lazy afternoon swims, Rudds Creek serves as your gateway to endless aquatic adventures.
Rudds Creek Recreation Area accommodates a variety of camping styles, from RV camping to primitive tent sites. 'There are 98 sites for tents or RVs.' Waterfront sites are particularly praised for their scenic views and direct access to the lake.
Historical SignificanceBorn from the ambitious construction of the John H. Kerr Dam in 1952, this reservoir transformed the landscape and created a recreational paradise that now spans six counties. What was once a flowing river valley became a vast aquatic playground, bringing economic vitality and outdoor opportunities to the region. Today, the reservoir stands as a testament to mid-century engineering while serving as a cherished gathering place where generations of families have created lasting memories on its waters and shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of the seasons at Rudds Creek, where moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor recreation. Spring arrives with blooming dogwoods and perfect fishing weather, while summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and water sports. The campground truly shines during its peak season from April through October, though occasional refreshing rains keep the forest lush and the air crisp. Fall paints the surrounding woodlands in brilliant golds and reds, offering spectacular views across the water.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain provides varied vantage points throughout the campground, creating natural privacy between sites while offering glimpses of the shimmering water through the trees.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering hardwoods and pines create a natural canopy throughout Rudds Creek, offering cool, dappled shade even on the warmest summer days. The campground's thoughtful layout takes advantage of the area's wooded coves and scenic shoreline, where morning mist dances across the water and evening light filters through the forest. The nearby marina adds a touch of nautical charm, with boats gently bobbing at their moorings while the vast expanse of the lake stretches to the horizon, its surface reflecting the ever-changing sky.
Geological RegionRudds Creek sits on the edge of the magnificent John H. Kerr Reservoir, affectionately known to locals as Buggs Island Lake. This 50,000-acre aquatic jewel follows the ancient path of the Roanoke River, its waters filling valleys and creating countless hidden coves along miles of wooded shoreline. The landscape tells a story of transformation, where rolling Piedmont hills meet vast waters, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports everything from towering timber to delicate wildflowers, all thriving in the rich soils deposited by centuries of river flow.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features such as accessible campsites are limited. One user review specifically noted a need for more accessible sites and better access to water.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, but generally accommodate large setups including RVs and additional vehicles. Some sites are noted for being narrow or having tiered designs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy of sites is mixed, with some offering secluded experiences and others being placed closely together. User reviews frequently highlight waterfront sites as being more private and scenic.
Total Campsites98 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for shaded or waterfront sites for better views and access to the lake.
Best CampsitesSites 80-100 are highly rated for their waterfront views and access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and a maximum of 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One site can accommodate multiple people, but exact numbers are not specified.
Groups
No specific information about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized in loops and sections. Some loops have waterfront views while others are shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, although most require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 service fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Rudds Creek offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for all ages. 'Public lands around the lake are open to hunting with appropriate state licenses... There are 26 Wildlife Management Areas around the lake that provide year-round opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, birding and more.' Fishing is widely popular due to the lake's reputation for largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. Boating is facilitated by boat ramps, and swimming is available at a designated beach area.
Hiking
The Robert Munford Trail, located within 7 miles of the campground, is multipurpose and spans 5.5 miles. The trail is highly recommended for hiking and birding.Fishing
Fishing is widely regarded as one of the primary attractions at the campground. 'The lake is widely known for fishing, with largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie and catfish available.'Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available, although reviews note issues with muddy or silty bottoms.Boating
Boating is facilitated by a boat ramp and courtesy dock specifically for campers. Waterfront sites allow direct access to moor boats.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including whitetail deer, wild turkey, and various waterfowl species like wood duck and mallard. Birding is a popular activity.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the swimming area, although reviews highlight the silty beach bottom as a drawback.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and canoeing are highly recommended, especially at waterfront sites that provide direct access to the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCampsites near the water may have muddy shorelines and poison ivy. Some sites have steep entry points or uneven terrain.
Active alertsNo active alerts are reported at this time.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 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 Boydton, VA, including gas stations and grocery stores.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 through October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though not in close proximity to all camping loops. A user proposed placing additional dumpsters near the farther loops for convenience.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the shores of John H. Kerr Reservoir, with specific sites offering direct water access.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include barking dogs, loud neighbors, and lack of sewer hookups. Some users mentioned steep or uneven campsite layouts.
HostThe campground supports hosts who are helpful and maintain clean facilities.
Campground Map
16064 Highway 58, Boydton, VA 23917
Driving directionsThe campground is located about 3 miles west of Boydton, VA, along Highway 58. The entrance is west of Boydton.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. GPS programs like Waze may misdirect visitors, so caution is advised when navigating to the entrance.Nearby places
Boydton: 3 miles (approximately 5 minutes), Clarksville: 20 minutes, South Hill: 30 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Boydton, VA, just minutes away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
429 reviews
Rudds Creek Rec. Ar. is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Rudds Creek Recreation Area are mixed, with highlights on scenic views and well-maintained facilities, contrasted by complaints about site size, neighbor privacy, and occasional facility issues. 'Beautiful campground with plenty of shade and waterfront sites, but the occasional barking dogs or inconsiderate neighbors can disrupt the experience.'
Review Summaries
Based on 429 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes friendly and helpful staff, clean facilities, scenic waterfront sites, and the overall peacefulness of the park. Many reviews praise the spaciousness of sites and...
Based on 429 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints tend to focus on site issues such as narrow or tiered configurations, privacy concerns, barking dogs, and inconsiderate neighbors. Some reviews also highlight maintenance needs, such as...
Based on 429 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include booking waterfront sites for privacy and scenic views, bringing extra padding for tents on gravel bases, and utilizing the boat ramp across the street for larger boats. 'Bring extra...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall seasons receive high praise for their pleasant weather and quiet atmosphere. Summer reviews are mixed due to the high activity levels and occasional complaints about noise or neighbor...
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Camper Quotes
'The only thing missing were trails of some sort to walk. Clean bathrooms!' 'Fantastic camping experience with perfect access to the lake for kayaking just a few feet away!' 'Friendly attendants and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight site numbers like 078 and 095 as excellent waterfront spots with spacious layouts. Conversely, sites like 077 and 027 received complaints about narrow designs or...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are minimal but stress the need for more handicap-accessible sites and pathways to the water. 'There is only one handicap-accessible site; improvements here would make the...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are appreciated, but multiple reviews emphasize the problem of barking dogs disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. 'If you can't control your dog, consider not bringing them.'
Based on 429 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025