Near Ennice, North Carolina, RV campgrounds sit at elevations ranging from 1,000-3,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. Camping areas typically experience temperature swings of 15-20 degrees between day and night, even during summer months. Most campgrounds in this region remain accessible from April through October, with limited winter operations.
What to do
Trail access from camp: At Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, campers can reach the 57-mile New River Trail within one block of their site. "We were one block from where we could get on the trail! Talk about convenient! Fries is a very small town...but the town is on the 'Crooked River Music Trail' and music is an important part of their heritage. Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session," reports Bran P.
Local music gatherings: Within 30 minutes of most Ennice campgrounds, travelers can find authentic mountain music. "The camp host were great...One plays a lot of Gordon Lightfoot - they were friends. Low key and quiet. Very, very enjoyable," notes Roger W. about the informal gatherings at Doughton Park Campground.
Kayaking and river access: Multiple access points to the New River exist within 10-15 miles of Ennice camping areas. "Kayak and bike drop offs are available at the gas station. About 2 miles down," mentions Jennifer K. regarding options near Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Many sites at Doughton Park Campground offer secluded spots with natural barriers. "Site #9, our site, is one of the best sites we have had in almost 4 years of travel. The regulars call this site the 'honeymoon site', because of the heart shaped large rocks which create a lower terraced picnic area," shares Roger W.
Cooler temperatures: The elevation of camping areas provides relief during summer months. "Lots of greenery and getting into the highlands means cooler temps in the summer," notes Anna R. about camping at Doughton Park.
Hospitality and helpful owners: Campers consistently mention friendly management at Peak Creek RV Campground. "Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream," mentions Lynn in a review about this smaller, more personal camping experience with only two sites available.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks near Ennice close during winter months, typically November through March. "Most sites are full hookups. A single washer and dryer available onsite. Great wifi and cable hookups," reports Nancy C. about amenities available during peak season.
Wildlife presence: Bears occasionally visit campgrounds in the region. "This was the only place we saw bears but not in our campsite just wandering in another loop," notes Anna R. about her experience at Doughton Park Campground.
Limited supplies: Small towns surrounding the campgrounds have minimal shopping options. "Supplies slim in Fries area. CVS/Dollar General," writes Monty about the shopping situation near Riverwalk RV Park. Plan to bring essential supplies or travel to larger towns like Galax (15-20 miles) for full grocery shopping.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Not all campgrounds have pools, but several offer natural water features. "The swimming pond was awesome with a spot for the dogs. We only stayed 2 nights and can't wait to go back!" shares Donna B. about her experience at Riverwalk RV Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation spaces. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RVs/campers," notes Melinda J. about Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Arcade games: Some campgrounds provide indoor entertainment options. "We spent one evening playing in the arcade room where I may currently hold the high score on one of the pinball machines," mentions Mychele B. regarding amenities at Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure concerns: Several campgrounds have variable water pressure. "Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes but the pressure was adequate for making coffee, brushing our teeth and filling the water bowls for the dogs," advises Sherri J. from her stay at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Site leveling requirements: Many RV campgrounds near Ennice have sites requiring leveling blocks. "Sites are close to level. Nothing severe at all," reports Nancy C. about the gravel sites at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, noting the minimal adjustments needed for comfort.
Navigation challenges: RV campers should plan routes carefully when traveling to River Country Campground. "River front sites, pull thru sites and tent sites... If you want to get away but have some conveniences (flushing toilets and hot showers), this is the place for you!" shares Melissa P., noting the campground's more remote setting along Kings Creek Road.
