RVshare.com

Douthat State Park RV & Campground Guide

Virginia

In western Virginia, high in the Allegheny Mountains near the Clifton Forge, you’ll find Douthat State Park. Spread over 4,500 acres, this park features some of Virginia’s most magnificent scenery, from rolling hills and soaring mountains to gushing waterfalls and serene lakefronts. Opened in 1936, Douthat State Park is one of the six original state parks in Virginia and was built by young men in the Civilian Conservation Corps on land donated by the Douthat Land Company.

With over 40 miles of wooded trails careening through mountainous terrain, it’s no wonder Douthat State Park is known as a top mountain biking destination. Hikers and equestrians will also enjoy scenic trails bordered by scrub pines and wildflowers and filled with abundant wildlife like bald eagles, chickadees, red-spotted newts, and skinks. At Lake Douthat, visitors can go fishing for bass and trout, take a refreshing swim, or explore the lakefront in a rented canoe or kayak. Head to the Douthat Lakeview Restaurant to enjoy a nice meal and watch the sunset in full view of the lake and mountains.

Douthat State Park is an ideal place to visit, no matter the time of year. Whether you’re looking for a snowy mountain getaway or fun summertime excursion, this park offers something for everyone. Read more for where to stay, play, and eat if you decide to visit Douthat State Park on your next vacation.

National Park Sample Image
Weather
Spring 44-66 F
Summer 61-82 F
Fall 35-66 F
Winter 27-44 F
National Park Sample Image
Trip Planner
Use our FREE RV trip planner to begin customizing the perfect RV trip. Continue
National Park Sample Image

RV Resorts & Campsites in Douthat State Park

Some say the best way to experience state parks is to stay in a tent or camp under the stars. But if you want to appreciate the great outdoors without sacrificing creature comforts like A/C, comfy beds or a full-sized kitchen, then consider staying in an RV. RVshare makes it simple to find and rent an RV that fits your preferences (and budget) in your area or near your travel destination. Close to Douthat State Park, you can find RVs in Roanoke or Lexington. Here are nearby RV campgrounds to consider for your stay:

Whispering Pines & White Oak Campgrounds

If you want splendid views of Lake Douthat and easy trail access, then stay on-site at Douthat State Park. There are 54 RV sites spread over two campgrounds, Whispering Pines and White Oak, that offer electric and water hookups. Visitors with horses can stay at the Beaver Dam campgrounds north of the park, which have 14 RV sites and horse stalls. Rates are $40 per night ($35 for Virginia residents), plus $10 for stall rentals. Pro tip : During the summer, camping sites go fast, so reserve your RV spot at least 30 days in advance.

  • Water hookup: Yes (April to October only)

  • Electrical hookup: Yes

  • Sewer hookup: No

  • Wifi: Yes

  • Pet friendly: Yes

  • Other amenities: Full-service bathhouses, playground, fire pits, grills, picnic tables, concessions, camp store, restaurant, hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, dumping station, equipment rentals 

The Buckhorn Country Store and Campground

About 2 miles from Douthat State Park, you’ll find Buckhorne Country Store and Campground. Offering peaceful mountain camping, this site has about 20 RV campsites, plus a store with a full-service menu, ice cream, fishing bait, and other supplies. Relax after a long day in the mountains by ordering an ice cream cone from the store or casting a line in the Wilson Creek. Rates are $35 per night.

  • Water hookup: Yes

  • Electrical hookup: Yes

  • Sewer hookup: Yes

  • Wifi: Yes

  • Pet friendly: Yes

  • Other amenities: Bathhouses, free cable, country store, playground, recreational field, picnic tables, fire pits, fishing, swimming, dumping station

RV Rentals Near Douthat State Park

Nearby RV Rentals

Restaurants

What to Do at
Douthat State Park

Inside Douthat State Park

With breathtaking mountain scenery, miles of multi-use trails, and a 50-acre lake with sandy beachfront and fishing piers, Douthat State Park is a nature lover’s playground. Mountain biking is an especially popular activity here but you’ll also find hikers, backpackers, and equestrians throughout the park’s 26 trails. 

From April to October, the park offers nature programs and other events including guided hikes, canoe tours, arts and crafts, and festivals. Kids will enjoy more youth-oriented programs where they can identify animal tracks, make tie-dyed shirts, or seek out salamanders.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the snack bar at the beachfront or visit the Douthat Lakeview Restaurant to refuel and relax with a tasty snack or delicious meal in full view of Lake Douthat.

Here are more details on the park’s most popular activities:

Mountain biking - Nearly all of the park’s 26 trails are open to biking. Steep elevations, fast downhills, and switchbacks combined with mountain overlooks, dense forests, and shallow creeks make for a fun, exciting way to experience the park’s natural wonders.

Hiking - There are over 40 miles of hiking trails of ranging length and difficulty, allowing you to choose your own adventure. Stroll around the lakefront, hike to a secluded waterfall in the woods, or climb into the mountains for a bird’s eye view of the park.

Swimming and Boating -  Go for a swim in the cool, clear waters of Douthat Lake or play in the sand on the beachfront. During the summer, lifeguards are on duty and rentals are available for paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and jon boats. 

Fishing - For a small fee, spend an afternoon fishing at Douthat Lake, which is well stocked with rainbow, trout, largemouth bass, sunfish, channel catfish, and more. You must have a valid Virginia fishing license to fish.

National Park Sample Image

How to Get to
Douthat State Park

Douthat Mother State Park is located near Millboro, Virginia and is easily accessible from Interstate 64. From Interstate 64, take exit 27 toward Clifton Forge / US-220 South and turn north onto US-220 South / State Route 629. Drive two miles to the park’s entrance and another four miles to the park’s office.

Address : 14239 Douthat State Park Road, Millboro, VA 24460

Entering Douthat State Park

The park is open every day from 6am until 10pm.

Douthat State Park Per vehicle : $7.0

Visitors can’t stop raving about Douthat State Park and we hope you feel the same! Whatever your adventure, take us along for the ride and send us your stories and photos by tagging us on social media or emailing us at [email protected]. We’d love to feature you on our blog or social media. Happy (RV) camping!

Frequently Asked Questions About Douthat State Park

What is the best time of year to visit Douthat State Park?

Summer is the perfect time to head over to Douthat State Park. It is the best time for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking and enjoying other fun activities in the park’s water body and vast field.

What is the climate of Douthat State Park?

This state park has a humid, sub-tropical climate. It experiences hot summers and mild winters, with average rainfall throughout the year. Summer temperatures reach 82 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures hit about 27 degrees Fahrenheit.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Douthat State Park?

Douthat State Park is home to many wildlife creatures, such as bears, elk and deer. Common avian creatures in this park include bald eagles, sparrows, and both white-eyed and red-eyed vireos.

Are there designated RV camping spots in Douthat State Park?

Douthat State Park has 87 designated RV sites. These sites are equipped with picnic tables, water and fire rings. Book a spot in advance during summer to avoid missing out.

Are pets allowed at Douthat State Park?

Pets are welcome at Douthat State Park. All pets have to be on a leash throughout their visit. They should not go to restricted areas, and their owners must clean up after them.