Explore Virginia by Motorhome: Practical Tips for Your Next Road Trip

If you're itching for a road adventure, Virginia offers the perfect mix of mountains, coast and historic towns. Driving a motorhome lets you stay flexible, wake up to new views and skip pricey hotels. Below you’ll find the easiest ways to plan your trip, the most reliable campsites and a few insider tricks to keep the journey smooth.

Pick Your Route – From the Blue Ridge to the Atlantic Coast

The easiest way to start is by choosing a theme. Want mountain vibes? Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway from Roanoke up to Shenandoah. The road is curvy, the views are epic and most pull‑outs let you stretch your legs without a hassle. For beach lovers, head east from Richmond to Virginia Beach. The A1‑A2 corridor is a straight‑forward drive and you’ll find many waterfront campgrounds that let you park right by the sand.

If history is your game, drive the Colonial Trail from Williamsburg up to Charlottesville. This path passes dozens of historic sites and small towns with free or low‑cost parking for larger rigs. Whichever line you pick, make sure your motorhome’s height fits under the low bridges on the Parkway – they’re usually marked, but a quick check on a map saves a stressful stop.

Where to Park – Top Campsites for Motorhome Travelers

Virginia has a solid network of RV parks that welcome motorhomes of all sizes. Shenandoah River RV Resort near Luray offers full hookups, a dump station and a short walk to trailheads. Virginia Beach KOA sits just minutes from the boardwalk and provides pull‑through sites, so you never need to reverse.

For a budget‑friendly option, try James River State Park. The park has basic hookups and a scenic river front. With a reservation you can grab a spot early in the season, and it’s a great base for kayaking or hiking. If you prefer a more rustic vibe, Grayson Highlands State Park lets you park in designated motorhome areas and enjoy wild pony sightings.

All these sites let you plug into electricity and water, but remember to bring your own adapter – UK‑style plugs won’t fit the US outlets. A simple 3‑pin to US 120 V adapter costs a few pounds and saves you a scramble at the dump station.

Before you set off, download a free app like Campendium or the UK‑friendly Motorhome Planner. They show real‑time availability, user reviews and any extra fees. Planning ahead means you won’t waste time circling for a spot when you could be exploring a new town.

Finally, keep an eye on the weather. Virginia’s summer can be humid, while autumn brings sudden cold snaps in the mountains. Pack extra blankets, a portable heater and a solar panel charger if you plan to stay off‑grid for a few nights.

With the right route, a few reliable campgrounds and a bit of prep, a motorhome trip through Virginia becomes a hassle‑free adventure. Pack your bags, fire up the engine and let the road decide where you’ll stop for coffee, a hike or a sunset over the Atlantic.