Open
Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates April 1 through October 31. Reservations required through Recreation.gov. Two vehicles allowed per campsite; $7/day surcharge for additional vehicles. Alcohol is prohibited.
About
Deer Island offers a secluded camping experience on an island in the middle of Philpott Lake, a 2,900-acre reservoir with 100 miles of shoreline in the Blue Ridge foothills of Virginia. This boat-access-only campground features 21 primitive tent sites available by reservation through Recreation.gov. Sites are non-site-specific, allowing campers to choose their spot from available locations upon arrival.
The island provides basic amenities including potable water and pit toilets. Each campsite comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. From April 1 through October 31, the closest boat launch is at Salthouse Branch campground. During the off-season from November 1 through March 31, campers can launch from Twin Ridge, Goose Point, or Ramp 1 near Philpott Marina.
Philpott Lake is surrounded by beautiful mixed forests of oak, maple, hickory, pine, and cedar. The area supports abundant wildlife including deer, turkeys, squirrels, raccoons, and various songbirds and waterfowl. The lake offers excellent boating, swimming, and fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Fairystone State Park and Fairystone Farms Wildlife Management Area are adjacent to the lake.
Directions
Deer Island is only accessible by boat. From April 1 through October 31, the closest launch ramp is at Salthouse Branch campground. From November 1 through March 31, launch from Twin Ridge, Goose Point, or Ramp 1 near Philpott Marina.
