Natural Bridge Station, Virginia · Rockbridge County · Campground
Overview Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and welcomes visitors to enjoy the rustic beauty and peacefulness of the area. Easy access from the interstate and close proximity to historic Lexington and Natural Bridge State Park make Cave Mountain Lake an ideal destination. …
Overview Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and welcomes visitors to enjoy the rustic beauty and peacefulness of the area. Easy access from the interstate and close proximity to historic Lexington and Natural Bridge State Park make Cave Mountain Lake an ideal destination. Cave Mountain Lake covers seven acres and was built in the late 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps, using existing natural rock buttresses to form the 35-foot dam. A grassy field extends from the lake's sandy beach to forested hills that paint a scenic backdrop. Recreation The 7 acre lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area which includes a sand beach. Fishing for youth only (ages 15 and under) is open from April 1st through June 15th, then fishing is open to anglers of all ages with a valid Virginia fishing license for the remainder of the season. There are several piers around the lake for better fishing access. A number of opportunities for photography, birding, and wildlife viewing are available along the trails and water's edge. Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from a short walk around the lake to an all-day hike along the nearby ridges. The Panther Knob Trail starts beside the group picnic shelter and skirts the edge of the lake to the dam. Visitors may also enjoy a day hike or backpacking trip on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the James River Face Wilderness, or the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.Facilities The group camp area allows tent-camping only and can accommodate up to 30 guests. Facilities include six picnic tables which can be moved around within the group area, two fire rings with grills, one double pedestal grill, lantern posts, serving tables, a group campfire circle and a drinking water spigot. Flush toilets are across the road behind the workcenter building and showers are available at the beach bathhouse. Food storage lockers are not currently available, so all food must be secured
Photos
Stone fire ring surrounded by wooden benches — -Wooden hand rail and stone steps leading to gravel tent sites surrounded by trees — -Parking area with yellow curb stops and a wooden fence surrounding — -Gravel tent pads surrounded by grass and trees — -Gravel tent pads surrounded by grass. Tent site contains wooden picnic tables and a brown bear pro storage box. — -
How to Get There
From I-81 North, take Exit 175. Turn left onto U.S. Highway 11 and continue 2 miles into Natural Bridge. Once in Natural Bridge, take a right onto VA 130 East and continue approximately 3.2 miles. Turn right on State Route 759 for 3.2 miles. Turn right on State Route 781. Cave Mountain Lake entrance is 1.6 miles ahead on the left. From I-81 South, take Exit 180A off the left side of the interstate. Continue on U.S. Highway 11 south into Natural Bridge. Once in Natural Bridge, take a left onto VA 130 East and continue approximately 3.2 miles. Then turn right on State Route 759 for 3.2 miles. Turn right on State Route 781. Cave Mountain Lake entrance is 1.6 miles ahead on the left.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP
Heading to CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233139) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP?
CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP has 1 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP?
From I-81 North, take Exit 175. Turn left onto U.S. Highway 11 and continue 2 miles into Natural Bridge. Once in Natural Bridge, take a right onto VA 130 East and continue approximately 3.2 miles. Turn right on State Route 759 for 3.2 miles. Turn right on State Route 781. Cave Mountain Lake entrance is 1.6 miles ahead on the left. From I-81 South, take Exit 180A off the left side of the interstate…
How do I contact CAVE MOUNTAIN LAKE GROUP CAMP?
You can reach the park at phone: 540-291-2188 or email: [email protected].
