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Camping near Glendale Springs, NC
264 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Glendale Springs provides access to multiple camping areas ranging from developed state parks to primitive backcountry sites. The region includes established campgrounds like New River State Park's Wagoner Access and Stone Mountain State Park, both offering tent and RV camping with various hookup options. Several locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including Julian Price Park Campground and Doughton Park Campground, provide seasonal camping options with scenic mountain views. Mixed-use campgrounds like Blue Bear Mountain Camp accommodate diverse camping styles with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options.
Road conditions and camping access vary significantly by season throughout the area. The Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds typically operate from April through October, with closures during winter months. "The Blue Ridge Parkway is an incredible drive, my favorite section is south of this campground in North Carolina," noted one visitor to Doughton Park. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during peak fall foliage season when the region's popularity surges. Weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations, with summer temperatures remaining pleasant while spring and fall bring considerable temperature variations. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many camping areas, particularly in more remote sections of national forest land, requiring advanced planning for navigation and emergencies.
Campers consistently highlight the waterfront locations and mountain views as standout features of the region's campgrounds. Sites along creeks and rivers receive particularly positive reviews, with many visitors appreciating the sound of running water at New River State Park and Blue Bear Mountain Camp. According to one camper, "The campground is very beautiful. You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows. The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained." While some developed campgrounds offer modern amenities including showers and electrical hookups, others maintain a more rustic atmosphere with basic facilities. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, with several reviewers mentioning encounters with deer. For those seeking true solitude, dispersed camping options exist on public lands farther from established campgrounds, though these areas require proper preparation and adherence to leave-no-trace principles.
Best Campgrounds near Glendale Springs (264)
1. Wagoner — New River State Park
"You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows. The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained. The park host, Tom Keller, was just fantastic."
"We were too far away from the water to walk, so we missed out on that, which we were looking forward to, but overall a really nice experience."
from $27 - $72 / night
Check Availability2. Stone Mountain State Park Campground
"But, ya know North Carolina summers."
"The site also had a huge area for the picnic table and the fire ring is far away from your camper. There was a huge grassy area behind our site with a creek, lots of space for our dog."
from $17 - $72 / night
Check Availability3. Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park
"Campground Review: There are two campgrounds in Grayson Highland SP which is located by The Mouth Of Wilson, VA, near the North Carolina border."
"With camping just a moderate day hike away from Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, this campground is a hiker's paradise."
from $27 - $98 / night
Check Availability4. Blue Bear Mountain Camp
"It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."
"There is a place to wash dishes outside as well. Fantastic walking trails - some parts quite steep but we got a good workout through the woods on the property."
from $25 - $136 / night
Check Availability5. Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"On the Blue Ridge Parkway, nestled in the trees and mountains of North Carolina, this campground has been well maintained."
"The Doughton Park campground off of the Blue Ridge Parkway is a great place to spend the night without if you are driving along the Parkway and don't want to venture too far off course."
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability6. Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
"This campground is on a beautiful lake. There is no swimming on the lake(its pretty shallow) but awesome for kayaking and paddleboarding."
from $30 / night
Check Availability7. Raccoon Holler Campground
"There’s plenty of swings throughout the campground for people to enjoy a long with basketball court, bourse shoes, fishing, frisbee golf, walking trails, a massive field that my daughter loved playing"
"I picked this campground because it was very close to Blue Ridge Parkway. My plan was to ride my motorcycle through this beautiful area of NC, but the rain didn't cooperate this trip."
8. COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground
"Swimming, kayaking, boat launch, small hiking trail. Sites have a fire pit, picnic table (it’s really heavy!) and a grill. I loved how each site is fairly unique."
"My wife and I biked/ ran the trails nearby. Our dogs loved walking around the campground. Some nice wooded tent sites that a very large areas. Our spot was a two level site."
from $20 - $85 / night
Check Availability9. Twin Rivers Family Campground
"Twin rivers campground is located in Crumpler NC on the river. It is a primitive campground with both RV and tent sites. "
"It seems a little bit of a sketchy drive into the primitive sites, but no one had any problems as far as I know—we certainly didn’t!"
10. Fort Hamby Park
"Lake was gorgeous! Absolutely the easiest and cleanest dump station we have ever used! Well designed! Close to Willesboro!"
"There is a dumpsite near the front office. A short drive from campsite is a man-made beach with lake swimming area… very nice."
from $30 - $125 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 15 min from Winston-Salem, NC
- 1 hr 44 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 59 min from Kingsport, TN
- 2 hrs 7 min from Blacksburg, VA
Recent Camping Photos near Glendale Springs, NC
524 Photos of 264 Glendale Springs Campgrounds
Kevin A.
Raccoon Holler Campground
Kyle & Amy Z.
New River Redemption
Katrin M.
Wagoner — New River State Park
Kelly M.
Rivergirl Fish Camp
Kirsten J.
Dusty Trails Outfitters
Tabitha B.
Twin Rivers Family Campground
braden K.
CreekFall BaseCamp
Anna R.
Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Jessica F.
Helton Creek Campground
Jessica B.
New River Alleghany Access Primitive Paddle-in — New River State Park
The Dyrt
Blue Bear Mountain Camp
Anthony B.
Fort Hamby Park
Recent Reviews near Glendale Springs, NC
1323 Reviews of 264 Glendale Springs Campgrounds
- CChris B.
TravelerFlintlock Campground
End of July Camping Trip
We spent a Friday and Saturday night at site 23, which is a great spot. This is a spot for a smaller camper and has water and power only. The plug for power is a little further away than usual, so if you are plugging in to power you may need an extended cord. It’s a short walk to the bath house, which was well maintained. The dog walking area was spacious and also very clean. They also have a washer and dryer on site for laundry.
- rrobert J.Scout
Boone N.C. KOA Holiday
Great stay clean and friendly atmosphere
Nice quiet campground about 1.9 miles out of boone NC. Lots to do here family friendly and pets freindly. Worth the stop.
Anna M.ScoutOld NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
great spot
got lucky and found a great spot right across the road from beautiful viewpoint. road was busier during the day but calmed down at night. enjoyed our visit
- FFrancie C.Scout
Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA
Fantastic campground
The campground is beautiful and extremely well maintained. The entire staff is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Very quiet, adjoins the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the small community of Fancy Gap is interesting.
Mike F.ScoutDoe River Landing
Ahhh-mazing
We arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
- EEric W.
GuideSugar Hollow Campground
Arrive with 1/2 tank of fuel!
It was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
- SSara M.Guide
Doe River Landing
What a fantastic find - small, family-owned campground in mountain heaven
Doe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
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The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
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The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
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The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
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Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
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- SSherry S.Traveler
Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Very nice!
I camped on Forest Road 982. There were quite a few people camping along this road, but I found a really good spot by the large creek. The campsites are pretty far from each other so the privacy is good. I stayed one night. Will definitely go back.
Guide to Glendale Springs
Camping opportunities near Glendale Springs vary from small backcountry sites to larger established campgrounds, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,800 feet throughout the area. The region sits at the intersection of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the New River watershed, creating distinct microclimates between valley and ridge camping locations. Temperature differentials between ridge and valley campsites can reach 15°F during summer months.
What to do
Trail access from camps: Hickory Ridge Campground provides immediate access to multiple hiking paths. "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," notes a Stone Mountain visitor. Many trails are accessible directly from campsites, eliminating driving to trailheads.
Fishing opportunities: Campers at waterfront sites often fish directly from their campsites. "We caught a trout in the pond right away," reports a visitor to Blue Bear Mountain Camp. Access to stocked waters is available year-round at some locations, though seasonal regulations apply.
Stargazing conditions: The higher elevation campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "I was very much hoping to take photos of the night sky, but there was a storm with wild winds and cold," explains one camper at Hickory Ridge. The best viewing conditions typically occur September through November when humidity levels drop.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers sites with natural screening. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," one visitor shares. Distance between sites varies significantly across the region.
Water features: Many campers specifically choose sites with water access. At Twin Rivers Family Campground, "Our site (#3) was right on the New River. There are some permanent sites, tent sites, RV sites, and several primitive sites." Water proximity provides both recreational opportunities and natural white noise.
Cooler temperatures: The region's higher elevations provide relief during summer months. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," notes a visitor to Blue Bear Mountain Camp. Another camper adds, "70-80 in July!" Temperature advantages are most noticeable June through August.
What you should know
Access considerations: Several campgrounds have challenging entry roads. A Blue Bear Mountain Camp visitor warns, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there." Road conditions worsen after heavy rainfall.
Seasonal availability: Fort Hamby Park operates seasonally like many area campgrounds. "We camped there toward the end of October 2018. Campsites are level and plenty long enough. Bathhouse was extremely clean," reports one visitor. Most primitive sites close by early November, while some developed campgrounds remain open year-round.
Wildlife management: Bears are active in the region. At Doughton Park, "We were told by a ranger we talked with earlier in the day that this campground might be closed for the season but the gates were open." Another camper mentions, "This was the only place we saw bears but not in our campsite just wandering in another loop." Proper food storage is mandatory.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Raccoon Holler Campground offers extensive family activities. "Family-friendly campground with plenty of fun activities for kids. Playground, fishing pond, disc golf, recreation and game area, and ice cream trailer," notes one visitor. Most family-oriented sites require reservations 2-3 months in advance during peak season.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature water access for swimming. A Fort Hamby visitor shares, "It was quite hot, so we spent some time at the nice lake beach that is part of the park. A good spot to cool off!" Swimming areas are typically unguarded, and some require short hikes from campsites.
Interactive nature programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities for children. At Hickory Ridge, "Plenty to keep kids and adults alike entertained, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area." Program schedules vary seasonally and by day of week.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Wagoner — New River State Park offers diverse hookup options. "Small campground with a handful of FHU sites. Some sites have patio area on 'wrong' (street) side instead of curb side, so take a look at Google satellite map when booking. Sites 3, 7, 10 are among the best," advises one RVer. Site orientation affects awning deployment and outdoor living space.
Leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the region creates leveling issues. At Raccoon Holler, a camper notes, "The site is not very level and very tight for my 32 foot RV." Another explains, "Getting parked was a bit of a challenge to get things as level as possible and work around power stand and be able to get awning out." Carrying extra leveling blocks is recommended.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer dump stations with varying availability. "Nice looking camp in a beautiful area. Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," mentions a visitor to New River State Park. Year-round dump stations are limited, especially during winter months when water systems may be winterized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Glendale Springs, NC?
What camping is available near Glendale Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Glendale Springs, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 264 campgrounds and RV parks near Glendale Springs, NC and 17 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Glendale Springs, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Glendale Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Glendale Springs, NC is Wagoner — New River State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Glendale Springs, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Glendale Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Glendale Springs, NC.
What parks are near Glendale Springs, NC?
What parks are near Glendale Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Glendale Springs, NC that allow camping, notably Blue Ridge Parkway and W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir.
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