Stone Mountain State Park Campground in Roaring Gap offers diverse camping experiences beyond its glamping accommodations. The campground features 23 RV sites with full hookups including 50-amp service, plus numerous tent-only sites. Many campers appreciate the site layout and proximity to natural attractions. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes Joe B. The campground remains open year-round with seasonal adjustments to services and accommodations. Tent campsites 1-18 at Hickory Ridge Campground are positioned furthest from hookup sites, providing a quieter camping experience while maintaining access to central facilities.
What to do
Fish the streams and lakes: Multiple water bodies near Traphill offer fishing opportunities including trout fishing at the pond in Blue Bear Mountain Camp. "We caught a trout in the pond right away," reports Kristen J. The elevation creates cooler water temperatures ideal for various fish species.
Explore mountain biking trails: The region features extensive mountain biking networks, particularly at Warrior Creek where the trails are maintained by dedicated volunteers. "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often," shares Kim L. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner to advanced with many interconnected loops.
Paddle the New River: This ancient waterway provides excellent canoeing and kayaking near Traphill. "Best canoeing and kayaking on new river, class 2 & 3 rapids on the 10 mile float," reports Allen F. at New River Canoe and Campground. Shuttle services cost approximately $20 to transport you upstream for float trips back to camp.
What campers like
Clean bathhouse facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain exceptional bathroom facilities. "This is by far the cleanest bathhouse I have ever seen," says Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. Most bathhouses offer hot showers, flush toilets, and electricity.
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Campers frequently mention the thoughtful layout of sites. At Mayberry Campground, "The property is well maintained. The staff is very helpful," according to Shela F. Some campgrounds feature tiered or terraced sites that maximize privacy despite being in open areas.
Moderate temperatures: The higher elevation creates pleasant camping conditions even in summer. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," notes Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp, where July temperatures typically range from 70-80°F.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the mountains have spotty connectivity. "There is little to no cell signal here, so coming to Grayson Highlands is one of the few state parks in Virginia where you can truly go 'off the grid,'" explains Stephanie J. Download maps and information before arrival.
Steep access roads: Mountain campgrounds often require navigating challenging roads. "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there," warns Kristen J. about accessing Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Variable reservation windows: Campgrounds have different booking timeframes. Some sites at Stone Mountain State Park can be reserved up to 11 months in advance, while others operate with shorter reservation windows or first-come, first-served policies during off-season months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites near playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Mayberry Campground offers "two playgrounds," according to Jason E., giving kids space to burn energy without leaving the campground.
Consider sites with field access: Open areas provide space for games and activities. At Pilot Mountain State Park Campground, "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites," advises Stephanie J.
Check for educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs or historical exhibits. The Stone Mountain loop includes a historic homestead that kids find fascinating. "The homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain," shares Kristi D., noting its appeal to young visitors.
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited hookups: Some campgrounds have partial services only. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "They do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area," explains Mandy R. Check availability of dump stations, as not all sites provide sewer connections.
Reserve pull-through sites when available: For easier setup, look for sites designed for larger rigs. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, "Like many KOAs, this has a combination of tent sites and well-equipped RV sites, ranging from back-in to pull-through," notes Jean C., making it ideal for various RV sizes.
Check site dimensions carefully: Mountain campgrounds often have space limitations. "Sites 1-18 are the furthest from hookup sites and will therefore be the quietest; they are mostly small sites and very close to the road," advises Stephanie J. about Hickory Ridge Campground, highlighting the importance of verifying your site will accommodate your specific rig.
