Campgrounds near Glade Valley offer diverse terrain from riverside settings to mountain locations at varying elevations. The Blue Ridge Parkway corridor provides access to several camping options, with sites typically ranging from 2,500 to 3,600 feet in elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at night, while summer days reach the mid-80s with cooler evenings compared to lower elevations.
What to do
Biking the New River Trail: Access this 57-mile trail from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park where you can ride directly from your campsite. "We were one block from where we could get on the trail! Talk about convenient!! Fries is a very small town. I believe that the last census taken showed it had about 400 year round residents!" notes Bran P.
Attend local music events: The region sits on the Crooked River Music Trail with regular performances nearby. "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!!" recommends a visitor to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park. Local music heritage runs deep throughout this area of Virginia and North Carolina.
Wine tasting: Roaring River Vineyards RV Campground offers camping with wine tasting on-site. "Had a great time here...campground is behind the restaurant and a pond. Very nice peaceful setting and you can wine taste while you are visiting," writes Kristi D. The vineyard provides electric hookups with 50-amp service.
What campers like
Creek access for summer cooling: Peak Creek RV Campground provides direct water access for relief during hot days. "Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream," notes Lynn S. The creek runs alongside the property and functions almost like a natural swimming hole.
Convenient location for supplies: Some campgrounds offer proximity to necessities without sacrificing natural settings. "Jonesvillle and Elkin both have antique stores and Elkin is a nice town to stroll through with shops and a local brewery," explains Ricky J. about staying at Riverwalk RV Park.
Camping welcome packages: Several parks provide special touches for arriving guests. "The camp host gave us the sweetest goodie bag with lollipops and dog treats," shares Stephanie H. about Riverwalk RV Park. These small amenities make camping more comfortable, especially when arriving after long drives.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain campgrounds experience significant temperature variations and rainfall. "We camped here in mid Sept 2020 and had a great time. We were in site 8. The bathhouse is small, but clean. The stream runs below the campsites," reports Martha S. from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Water pressure variations: Some campgrounds have inconsistent water pressure depending on site location. "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," explains Sherri J. This affects how you'll need to plan for water usage during your stay.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons due to weather. Doughton Park Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway typically operates "mid May to October 31" according to park information, with one visitor noting they "saw a sign saying that it would close for the season on November 4."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity options: Find campgrounds with multiple recreation choices to keep children engaged. "There is a nice walking path along the river. It sits down at the base of some rugged hills and gives it a private feel. Deer came right up to our camper and my husband saw them while walking our dog," reports June W.
Consider age-appropriate campgrounds: Some locations better serve certain age groups. "If it was just adults going, or even older children maybe 7 and up it would be a great location," advises Keanu G. about Lake Myers RV Resort, noting limited activities for younger children.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-night temperature differences. "Deciduous forest on high ground," notes Roger W. about Doughton Park Campground, which sits at higher elevation and typically remains "cooler than the surrounding areas."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Mountain rv sites near Glade Valley, North Carolina often require extra leveling blocks. "The sites are not necessarily level but folks are friendly and it's a nice place to spend a few days," mentions a visitor about Old Cranks Campground, where the terrain creates natural slopes.
Size restrictions: Large rigs face limitations at several campgrounds. "This campground is quiet, shaded, and right on the Blue Ridge parkway. It's high in elevation so it's cooler than the surrounding areas," explains Chris R. about Doughton Park Campground, though noting the limited size accommodation for larger vehicles.
Electrical considerations: Many rv camping locations near Glade Valley offer varied hookup options. "All sites are full hookups. A single washer and dryer available onsite. Great wifi and cable hookups," reports Nancy C., highlighting the amenities that make extended stays more comfortable.
