Campgrounds near Glendale Springs offer varied terrain from 1,200 to over 3,600 feet in elevation, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year. Sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway provide cooler summer temperatures, typically 8-10 degrees below surrounding lowlands. Most campgrounds in the region close from late October through mid-May due to frequent winter precipitation and occasional road closures.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Doughton Park Campground connects directly to multiple hiking paths including the 7.5-mile Bluff Mountain Trail. "There are trails you can hike from camp. There is a basic dump station at the entrance as well as potable water," notes a camper at Doughton Park Campground.
Vineyard tours: Several campgrounds are located near Yadkin Valley wine country. Roaring River Vineyards RV Campground offers on-site wine tasting. "We loved camping here and can't wait to come back❤️... The swimming pond was awesome with a spot for the dogs," reports a camper at Riverwalk RV Park.
Cycling opportunities: The New River Trail provides extensive biking routes accessible from many campgrounds. "The start of the trail is less than 1/2 mile from the campground and travels along the New River for miles. It is also possible to reach Galax by bike along a spur - about 11 miles from the campground," explains a visitor at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
What campers like
Creek access: Many sites offer water features for cooling off during summer months. "Awesome property and views. Creek is like a river, cool getaway during the day," writes a guest at Peak Creek RV Campground.
Historical sites: The area features numerous preserved structures and heritage sites. "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," explains a visitor at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Music traditions: Local towns host regular jam sessions and music events. "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!!" recommends a camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
What you should know
Limited groceries: Stock up before arrival as options are limited. "Supplies slim in Fries area. CVS/Dollar General," notes a camper, while another mentions, "Great little steakhouse Thursday to weekend."
Variable camping facilities: Amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. "No bathrooms/showers. Being right on a little river is great too," explains a visitor at Laurel Creek RV Park.
Road considerations: Some access roads require careful driving. "The roads were windy and a tad narrow but definitely do-able as long as you took your time," shares a camper from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Off-season deals: Lower rates available but with fewer services. "I stayed here first week of March for 2 days. It was very clean and the staff was very nice. I just felt that this early in the year when the leaves aren't even on the trees and nobody's swimming the cost would be alot less than $80 a night," notes a visitor at Riverwalk RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity selection: Some campgrounds offer more for children than others. "We took our three boys (all under 5) for the weekend. There was not much at all for them to do other than play in the pool, which was a tad bit dirty... If it was just adults going, or even older children maybe 7 and up it would be a great location," advises a visitor at Lake Myers RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report deer sightings near campsites. "Deer came right up to our camper and my husband saw them while walking our dog," reports a visitor at River Country Campground & RV Park.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds have water features specifically for families. "This campground has been transformed into a beautiful place to get away from it all! River front sites, pull thru sites and tent sites. New playground for the kids!" notes a visitor at River Country Campground & RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site characteristics: Concrete pads aren't universal across area campgrounds. "Our site was level and only had to level a little front to back," shares one RVer, while others note many parks feature gravel sites that may require additional leveling.
Seasonal water systems: Some campgrounds have reduced water pressure in colder months. "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," explains a camper at Laurel Creek RV Park.
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies significantly between parks. "Great wifi and cable hookups," reports a camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, while another notes, "Verizon service has 2 bars. Occasionally got a little spotty while working, but our hotspot worked enough. Streaming did get dicey."
