Camping at Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground
Overview
Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground is located in the beautiful George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Virginia. This family-friendly campground provides a peaceful forest setting and a 7-acre lake that was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Location & Access
Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground is situated in the Natural Bridge Station area of Virginia. The campsite is typically accessible by road, and specific driving directions can be obtained from the Forest Service or via a map service or GPS by entering the campground's name or its geographic coordinates.
Camping Facilities
Campsite Amenities:
- The campground has individual campsites that can accommodate tents and recreational vehicles (although there are no hookups for RVs).
- Each site usually has a table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill.
- There are several vault toilets and a bathhouse with warm showers.
- Drinking water is available from spigots throughout the campsite.
Group Camping:
- Cave Mountain Lake offers a group campsite for larger parties, known as the "Beach House," that includes a picnic shelter and additional space.
Recreational Activities
- Swimming: The lake has a sandy beach area designated for swimming, although no lifeguards are on duty.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing for stocked trout and other species; a Virginia state fishing license may be required.
- Hiking: There are multiple trails in the vicinity, including the nearby Natural Bridge State Park and its iconic natural arch.
- Boating: While motorized boating is not permitted, visitors can use non-motorized boats on the lake.
- Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife, providing ample opportunities for bird watching and encountering local wildlife.
Reservations and Fees
- Campsites at Cave Mountain Lake can often be reserved in advance through the National Recreation Reservation Service or by calling their reservation line.
- There are fees for camping, which vary based on the type of site and any additional amenities.
- Visitors are encouraged to check the latest fee structure and make reservations, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to ensure space is available.
Important Rules and Regulations
- Check-In/Check-Out: Specific check-in and check-out times are enforced to manage the flow of campers.
- Fire Safety: Campfires are typically allowed in designated rings, but campers must follow fire safety rules and heed any fire bans due to dry conditions.
- Pets: Pets are often allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
- Trash: "Pack it in, pack it out" is a common policy; campers must clean up after themselves and remove all trash upon departure.
- Quiet Hours: To maintain a peaceful environment, there are usually quiet hours during the night.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
The campground is open seasonally, usually from late spring through the end of October, though this can vary due to weather. It is essential to check the current operating season and weather forecasts before planning your trip, as weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
Accessibility
The campground aims to provide facilities that are accessible to visitors with disabilities; however, specifics should be confirmed with the Forest Service to ensure that individual needs can be met.
Contact Information and Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, campers should contact the local forest district office directly or visit the official Forest Service website. This is also where you can find maps, brochures, and additional details about the Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground and surrounding areas.
