Open
Open year-round for primitive camping. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through reservevaparks.com or by calling 1-800-933-PARK.
About
Walnut Grove Campground is one of three primitive campgrounds at James River State Park, located in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains in Buckingham County. The campground features five shaded tent-only sites with parking at each campsite. While there are no tent pads, each site is equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The campground has primitive vault toilets but no potable water, electricity, or hookups.
The campground offers a true backcountry experience with a short walk to the James River. Rooftop tents are permitted, though hammock camping has limited anchoring options. James River State Park operates as a trash-in, trash-out facility, so campers must pack out all waste. Pets are welcome on leashes no longer than 6 feet and must be kept inside at night.
Reservations are highly recommended and site-specific. The main park area offers additional amenities including a bathhouse with hot showers, dump station (free for campers), camp store, and potable water at picnic shelters. Primitive camping rates are $16 for Virginia residents and $19 for non-residents per night, plus a $5 transaction fee and applicable sales tax.
Directions
From U.S. 60 West, turn right onto Route 605 (Riverside Dr.) at the James River Bridge. Travel seven miles, then turn left onto Route 606. Follow signs to James River State Park at 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone, VA 24553.