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Smith Mountain Campground
Overview
Smith Mountain Campground offers a peaceful sanctuary for those looking to experience the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge region. Situated in the charming community of Penhook, this park provides a classic outdoor experience characterized by mature trees and a relaxed atmosphere. It serves as a comfortable gateway for exploring the expansive waters and rolling hills surrounding Smith Mountain Lake. This destination is widely known for its unplugged atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly reconnect with nature and their travel companions.
Location & Surroundings
Located in the heart of Franklin County, the park is nestled within a lush, wooded landscape that provides ample privacy and natural cooling during the summer months. The surrounding area is defined by its rural charm and proximity to the Blackwater River arm of the lake. Visitors can enjoy the scenic drives through the countryside, where the views of the distant mountains create a stunning backdrop for any road trip. The quiet country roads leading to the park are accessible for most tow vehicles and motorhomes.
Amenities & Park Features
The park is designed to accommodate various RV styles, offering full hookup sites with both 30 and 50-amp electrical service. Travelers can find spacious pull-through sites that make navigating larger rigs much simpler. On-site facilities include:
- A clean bathhouse and laundry center
- A well-stocked camp store for essentials
- A playground for children
Each site typically features a picnic table and a fire ring, encouraging guests to enjoy traditional evenings under the stars. The mature shade trees throughout the property provide a cool canopy during the warmer Virginia summers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water enthusiasts will find themselves perfectly positioned, as the park is just a short drive from multiple public boat ramps. Smith Mountain Lake is renowned for its world-class striped bass fishing and recreational boating. Beyond the water, guests can explore the Booker T. Washington National Monument or spend a day hiking the trails at the nearby state park. Local marinas offer boat rentals, making it easy to get out on the water without bringing your own craft.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is an ideal choice for families and anglers who prioritize a quiet, no-frills environment over a busy resort scene. It appeals to RVers who enjoy a sense of community and a slower pace of life. If you are looking for a pet-friendly retreat that serves as a reliable base camp for lake adventures, this destination provides the perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Discounts
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Andrew Marquesen
Great place to camp. The bathrooms/showers were always spotless. Other campers were courteous and quiet, and the place has a good family atmosphere. It's also very close to Penhook boat ramp and the town of Penhook, which has a well stocked small grocery store less than 5 minutes away. I will definitely return here next time I'm at SML.
Dax Sedberry
Wonderful, very laid back, clean campground. Steve worked with my schedule, with very short notice (2 days) to work a monthly spot out for me for a local job I was on. Jeff, campground manger, also wonderful. Super nice folks, I’ll be back for pleasure one day soon! Highly recommended.
Cindy Way
Smith Mountain Campground is very well kept. This is our 2nd time staying here and we haven’t been disappointed. The camp host is always available in just mins for any needs you have. Bath house is always clean and we love the private bathroom with showers. The only thing I would recommend is to add a small bench in each room for clothes to be put on while showering and then to use for putting shoes on after your shower. The grounds are well kept and our grand kids have fun on the playground and we enjoyed walking the trail thru the woods.
Noah Jantomaso
Nicely maintained, dog-friendly campground with friendly staff. The new owner, Steven, is very accommodating and helpful. The camp host, Jeff, is a very hospitable and handy guy who works hard to keep the property looking good. No complaints with our 3wk stay here. Clean, private bathhouse and lots of friendly fellow campers. 5 min drive to Smith Mountain trail that I was able to run several times. Nice 10mile trail with a view of the lake. 10-15 min drive from several boat ramps.
Tiffany Turley
This was our first time to SMC, and it was AWESOME! I was emailing with Steven, the owner, who is a fabulous person. He sent us all kinds restaurant ideas and also let us know about the local public boat launch which is only 2.9 miles away and was VERY easy to access and use. We met Jeff once we got there, super great guy, very friendly and kept the campground looking good. He was always riding his cart around cleaning up and greeting folks. GREAT guy. Clean bathrooms with showers. Very important for me to feel safe, have a peaceful campground and not be too far from a local mart to pick up items. This campground is all of those things! Carl's is right down the street, easy to get a boat in and out of, and has breakfast too! Would absolutely stay here again.