Lakeside Campgound

For Virginians seeking the quintessential outdoor escape, where breathtaking natural beauty meets modern camping conveniences, Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park is a destination that consistently rises to the top. Nestled in the heart of the Alleghany Mountains, this campground offers a truly immersive experience in one of Virginia's most historic and scenic state parks. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub for adventure, relaxation, and creating cherished memories with family and friends.

Douthat State Park, established in 1936 as one of the original six Virginia State Parks, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its enduring appeal and significant role in park development nationwide. Lakeside Campground, as its name suggests, boasts prime locations near the park's 50-acre lake, providing campers with stunning water views and immediate access to a wealth of aquatic activities. The park prides itself on being a traditional family park, offering a harmonious blend of rugged outdoor pursuits and comfortable amenities that cater to all ages and preferences. Whether you envision a serene morning fishing on the lake, an exhilarating mountain bike ride through challenging trails, or simply unwinding by a campfire under a canopy of stars, Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park provides the perfect setting for your Virginia adventure. Its reputation as a beloved destination is well-earned, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Lakeside Campground is ideally situated at 12786 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro, VA 24460, USA. This location places it deep within the scenic Alleghany Mountains, straddling both Bath and Alleghany counties. The campground's direct proximity to the beautiful 50-acre Douthat Lake is a key highlight, offering convenient access to a variety of water-based activities and picturesque views right from many campsites.

Accessibility to Douthat State Park and, by extension, Lakeside Campground, is generally straightforward for most Virginia residents. The park is located just over an hour's drive north of Roanoke, making it a manageable journey for those in Southwest Virginia. From larger urban centers like Richmond or Washington D.C., the drive is longer but entirely feasible for a weekend or extended stay, typically involving routes via Interstate highways and then transitioning to scenic state roads. While the park offers a true escape into nature, it's not so remote that it becomes difficult to reach. Visitors should be aware that cell phone service can be patchy throughout the park due to its mountainous terrain, so downloading maps or directions in advance is advisable. However, free Wi-Fi is available near the bathhouses, allowing for some connectivity when needed. The park's main office and contact station are well-marked, and upon arrival, campers can easily navigate to Lakeside Campground, which is one of the four main camping areas within Douthat State Park, alongside Whispering Pines, White Oak, and Beaver Dam (equestrian). The ease of access, combined with the feeling of stepping into a secluded mountain paradise, makes Lakeside Campground a highly desirable spot for Virginians looking for a convenient yet profound outdoor experience.

Lakeside Campground, as part of Douthat State Park, offers a robust array of services designed to enhance your camping experience and cater to diverse needs.

• Campsite Diversity: Lakeside Campground features various campsites capable of accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. Many sites now offer electric and water hookups, providing modern conveniences for a comfortable stay.

• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.

• Modern Bathhouses: The campground boasts well-maintained, newer, and very clean bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers, offering a refreshing end to a day of outdoor activities. An outdoor dishwashing station is also available near the bathhouses.

• Potable Water: Clean drinking water taps are readily accessible throughout the campground.

• RV Services: A convenient dump station is available within Douthat State Park for RV waste disposal.

• Camp Store & Gift Shop: A well-stocked camp store provides essential supplies, snacks, and camping necessities, while a gift shop offers souvenirs and local crafts.

• Restaurant: During the in-season (typically summer), the park features a full-service restaurant overlooking the lake, offering a convenient dining option with scenic views.

• Boat Rentals: Seasonal boat rentals (paddleboats, paddleboards, hydro bikes, rowboats, funyaks, Jon boats with or without electric motors) are available directly at the park, making it easy to enjoy the lake without bringing your own equipment. No gas-powered boats are permitted on Douthat Lake.

• Swimming Beach: A guarded swimming beach with a snack bar is generally open between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, weather permitting, providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the camp host or park office, ensuring you have what you need for your campfires.

• Pet-Friendly: Douthat State Park's campgrounds are generally pet-friendly, though pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and not left unattended. A fee per pet per night may apply.

Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park is rich with features and highlights that draw visitors from across Virginia and beyond, making it a premier outdoor destination.

• 50-Acre Lake Douthat: This centerpiece of the park offers abundant recreational opportunities. It's renowned for its excellent seasonal trout fishing, regularly stocked with brown, rainbow, and brook trout, as well as largemouth bass, channel catfish, sunfish, and black crappie. A kid-friendly fishing area below the dam on Wilson Creek is also available.

• Extensive Trail System: Douthat boasts over 43 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even six miles of bridle trails for equestrians. Trails range from easy, less-than-half-mile paths like Buck Lick Trail, to challenging, strenuous climbs like Stony Run (4.2 miles) or Blue Suck Falls Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall. Updated blazes and junction signs enhance the trail experience.

• Swimming Beach & Lake Activities: The designated sandy swimming beach is a popular spot during warmer months, featuring a diving dock (when lifeguarded) and areas for unguarded swimming. Boat rentals make it easy to get out on the water.

• National Register of Historic Places: As one of the original six Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) parks, Douthat’s infrastructure, including many cabins and buildings, reflects the park's historical significance and unique architecture.

• Dark Sky Park Initiative: Douthat State Park has applied to be considered an International Dark Sky Park, having taken steps to reduce light pollution. This commitment offers unparalleled opportunities for stargazing and appreciating the night sky.

• Wildlife and Nature Viewing: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna within its hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests. Visitors can spot various mammals (deer, foxes, raccoons), birds (osprey, eagles, owls), and even some reptiles and amphibians, making it excellent for nature observation and photography.

• Interpretive Programs: Douthat State Park frequently offers ranger-led programs and events, including nature walks, archery adventures, and historical insights into the park's CCC legacy, enhancing the visitor's educational experience.

• Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: Multiple picnic areas with shelters and grills, along with playgrounds, cater to families and provide ample space for day-use visitors.

When planning your visit to Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park, it’s beneficial to be aware of the reservation system and potential savings opportunities. While specific, short-term promotions may vary, Virginia State Parks generally offer consistent avenues for discounts and provide clear information on booking.

Campsite rates at Lakeside Campground can vary, with starting prices around $43.00 per night for sites with electric and water hookups. It's important to note that rates can fluctuate based on the season, specific site amenities, and demand.

One of the most valuable promotions for frequent visitors to Virginia State Parks is the Virginia State Parks Annual Pass. This pass provides unlimited day-use admission and parking at all Virginia State Parks for a full year, which can lead to significant savings if you plan multiple visits. While the pass doesn't directly reduce camping fees, it eliminates the daily parking fees that would otherwise apply, making the overall cost of your stay more economical.

For military personnel and seniors, there are often state-wide discounts available across Virginia State Parks. It is always recommended to inquire directly with the park office or check the official Virginia State Parks website (virginia.gov/state-parks) for any current military, senior, or other special discounts that might apply to camping fees.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular campgrounds like Lakeside, and during peak seasons (Memorial Day to Labor Day, and prime fall foliage weekends). Bookings can be made conveniently online through the reservevaparks.com website, which is the official reservation portal for Virginia State Parks. This allows you to secure your preferred dates and campsite well in advance, sometimes up to 11 months ahead of your arrival. It's always wise to check the website for the most up-to-date pricing, availability, and any specific alerts or regulations that might impact your stay.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Lakeside Campground and Douthat State Park, please use the following contact information:

Address: 12786 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro, VA 24460, USA

Main Park Phone Number: (540) 862-8100

Toll-Free Reservation & Information Line: (800) 933-7275 (PARK)

Email: douthat@dcr.virginia.gov

Official Virginia State Parks Website: virginiastateparks.gov/douthat (This website is the comprehensive resource for park information, events, and links to the reservation system).

For online reservations, the dedicated portal is: reservevaparks.com

The park office generally operates during standard business hours, but it's always advisable to check the current operating hours on the official website or by calling, especially if you plan to arrive during off-peak times or need specific assistance. Camp hosts are also typically on-site during operational seasons to assist campers.

Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park offers an unparalleled camping experience that makes it exceptionally suitable for Virginia locals. Its blend of historical significance, breathtaking natural beauty, and a wide array of amenities provides a perfect backdrop for any type of outdoor enthusiast. For families, the supervised swimming beach, playground, and diverse activity programs ensure endless entertainment for children, while adults can appreciate the serene lakeside setting and comfortable facilities. Anglers will find the frequently stocked 50-acre lake a paradise for trout fishing, and the extensive network of over 43 miles of trails caters to hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels, offering both leisurely strolls and challenging ascents.

The availability of sites with electric and water hookups at Lakeside Campground makes it accessible for both tent campers seeking a rustic yet comfortable experience and RV owners desiring full conveniences. Furthermore, the commitment to providing clean bathhouses, a convenient camp store, and even a lakeside restaurant during peak season, elevates the camping experience beyond the ordinary. The park's efforts to become an International Dark Sky Park also mean locals can enjoy unparalleled stargazing right from their campsite. Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend retreat, an adventurous family vacation, or a chance to reconnect with Virginia's stunning natural heritage, Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park offers a welcoming and well-equipped environment that consistently delivers memorable outdoor adventures for every Virginian.