James River RV Rest

Welcome to James River RV Rest, your tranquil haven nestled in the picturesque countryside of Cartersville, Virginia. Situated near the historic James River, this campground offers a rustic and peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. For Virginia locals and travelers alike, James River RV Rest provides an authentic outdoor experience, focusing on quiet relaxation and direct engagement with the beautiful natural environment of Central Virginia.

This spot is designed as a relaxing stop for campers who appreciate a more natural setting, rather than a large, amenity-heavy resort. It caters to both RV enthusiasts looking for a quiet layover and tent campers seeking a secluded spot by the river. The focus here is on providing a clean, safe, and friendly environment for guests to enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, from fishing the James River to stargazing in the clear country sky. It is specifically noted as being Good for Kids, making it a wonderful destination for families across the Commonwealth looking to introduce their children to the joys of the outdoors.

The atmosphere is decidedly relaxed and often praised by previous visitors for its quiet, private sites that are spread apart, allowing for a personal and tranquil experience, even when other campers are present. This dedication to peace and natural beauty is what sets James River RV Rest apart as a true 'rest' stop in the heart of Virginia.

Location and Accessibility

James River RV Rest is conveniently located in Cartersville, a small community in Cumberland County, Virginia. The location offers excellent proximity to several major Virginia cities and state parks, making it an accessible weekend getaway for residents of Richmond, Charlottesville, and Farmville.

• Address: 1120 Cartersville Rd, Cartersville, VA 23027, USA. The campground is located off a main road, providing relatively easy access for RVs and trailers.
• River Access: The primary feature of the location is its proximity to the James River. Previous guests have noted easy access from the property, which is perfect for launching kayaks, canoes, or simply enjoying riverside activities like fishing and relaxing.
• Local Attractions: The rest area serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring Central Virginia. It's a short drive to popular destinations like Bear Creek Lake State Park and Cumberland State Forest, which offer extensive hiking, swimming, and paddling opportunities.
• Travel Note: While the location is beautiful, please note that some of the area's natural beauty comes with certain rustic elements. The narrow entrance is clearly marked, and once you pass over the train tracks and into the hayfield, you enter the quiet, wooded camping area.

The campground provides On-site Parking for guests, ensuring vehicles can be accommodated easily and safely near their designated sites.

Services Offered

James River RV Rest emphasizes the core camping experience while providing essential services for comfort and convenience. The available services are focused on supporting a restful stay in a natural environment.

• RV and Tent Camping Sites: The campground accommodates both RVs and tents, offering flexibility for various types of campers. Sites are often described as spacious and well-spread out, maximizing privacy.
• Portable Toilets: For sanitation needs, the facility provides clean and well-maintained portable toilets, which are regularly serviced.
• Firewood: Firewood is typically made available on-site for purchase, often freshly split and easily accessible via an honor system or QR code payment method, allowing guests to enjoy essential campfire experiences.
• Basic Site Amenities: Every site is equipped with necessary components for a pleasant outdoor stay. This includes a Picnic Table for outdoor dining and a Fire Pit with a Grate for cooking and campfires.
• River Access: The property offers direct, easy access to the James River shoreline, allowing for safe entry for fishing, kayaking, or floating activities.

It is important for guests to be prepared, as the emphasis on rustic camping means there are typically no full-service hookups (electric, water, sewer) at the individual sites, prompting campers to bring their own water supply and be fully self-contained.

Features / Highlights

The true highlights of James River RV Rest lie in its natural environment and the unique Virginia experience it offers, praised by guests for creating a memorable and serene stay.

• Authentic Riverside Experience: Campers enjoy beautiful, direct views and access to the James River, a key feature for fishing, nature watching, and water activities. Otters, deer, and diverse birdlife are common sightings.
• Privacy and Seclusion: Sites are intentionally spread far apart, giving each group a feeling of deep seclusion and quiet, which is often a top priority for those seeking a true escape from city noise.
• Stargazing: Located in a rural area away from major light pollution, the campground offers exceptional opportunities for night-sky viewing, allowing guests to clearly see the stars and, often, the Milky Way.
• Family and Kid-Friendly: As noted, the campground is excellent for children. The open space, river access (with proper supervision), and overall tranquil atmosphere create a safe and fun setting for young ones to explore nature.
• Appalachian Charm (The Trains): A unique feature of the location is the presence of two active railroad lines, one on each side of the river. The sound of the freight trains is noted by some guests as adding a 'nostalgic feel of true Appalachia,' contributing to the remote, country atmosphere.

Contact Information

For current availability, pricing, and reservation inquiries, contact the campground directly using the provided phone numbers.

• Address: 1120 Cartersville Rd, Cartersville, VA 23027, USA
• Phone: (804) 461-8252
• Mobile Phone: +1 804-461-8252

What is Worth Choosing

James River RV Rest is undeniably worth choosing for Virginia campers who prioritize peace, privacy, and an authentic connection to the James River. If you are looking for a sprawling resort with a swimming pool, arcade, and organized activities, this may not be the ideal fit. However, if your goal is a quiet, secluded slice of Central Virginia countryside—where the sounds of the river and nature replace city noise—then this campground is a perfect find.

It offers a genuine, unplugged experience that is perfect for families and couples seeking to relax. The generous spacing between sites ensures that you truly feel alone in nature, while the clean, basic facilities and friendly management ensure a hassle-free stay. Its convenient location near Bear Creek Lake State Park and other state forests also positions it as a great home base for extensive hiking and exploring Central Virginia's natural attractions. For RVers and tent campers in the region, James River RV Rest delivers a premium rustic experience that honors the natural beauty of the historic James River.

James River RV Rest

1120 Cartersville Rd, Cartersville, VA 23027, USA