Camping near Jefferson, North Carolina offers access to several state parks and campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Elevations range from 1,200 to 3,600 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between river valleys and mountain sites. During summer months, higher elevation campsites at Doughton Park and Grayson Highlands can be 10-15 degrees cooler than those along the New River.
What to do
Fish for trout: Helton Creek Campground sits directly on a designated trout stream. "Excellent fishing on site and plenty more in walking distance," notes Matt D. The delayed harvest section is "well stocked in spring, larger fish stocked in fall, October I think," according to Scott G.
Hike to mountain views: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers trails for various skill levels. "Stone loop mountain trail is incredible! Long and strenuous but all ages were hiking it," says Kristi D. Another camper mentioned, "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see."
Kayak the New River: Twin Rivers Family Campground provides direct river access. "Our site (#3) was right on the New River. There are some permanent sites, tent sites, RV sites, and several primitive sites," reports Kevin A. The campground is "steps from the river" with "crystal clear river water, kayaking, canoeing, fishing."
Visit wild ponies: Hickory Ridge Campground at Grayson Highlands State Park offers unique wildlife encounters. "Great hikes close by with sweet wild ponies that let you get close for pictures," writes Julianne S. Another visitor adds, "Grayson Highlands is a must-do for all campers, hikers, and adventurers. Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Blue Bear Mountain Camp provides relief from summer heat. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," reports Kristen J. Another camper confirms, "Not only is the weather so much cooler in the summer there (70-80 in July!), it's just a wonderful, down to earth place to be."
River sounds: Campers consistently mention the peaceful sounds at riverside sites. At New River State Park, "Every spot here is close to the river! The gentle sound of the New river is the most peaceful sound," according to Brittany H. Sites by the water create a natural white noise that masks other campground sounds.
Well-maintained facilities: Wagoner — New River State Park receives high marks for cleanliness. "The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained. The park host, Tom Keller, was just fantastic," shares Katrin M. Another visitor noted, "Super clean restrooms and showers, amazing visitors center, plenty of hiking trails."
Private sites: Many campsites offer good separation between neighbors. At Doughton Park, "#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," according to Roger W.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "You have to book early because C3 is very popular!" notes Mandy R. At Stone Mountain, weekend reservations are essential from May through October.
Accessibility challenges: Some campsites require extra effort to reach. At New River State Park, "You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows," explains Katrin M. Similarly, at Twin Rivers, "It seems a little bit of a sketchy drive into the primitive sites," according to Tabitha B.
Weather variability: The mountains create unpredictable conditions. "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," advises Danielle H. about Grayson Highlands. Temperature drops of 20+ degrees can occur in a single day, particularly at higher elevations.
Limited connectivity: Grindstone and other mountain campgrounds have minimal cell service. "If you want to escape it all, this campground is for you! There is no cell phone service," reports Carissa D. Many campers note this as a positive feature for truly disconnecting.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with play areas: Raccoon Holler Campground offers numerous kid-friendly amenities. "There's plenty of things for the kids and the adults to do there... basketball court, horse shoes, fishing, frisbee golf, walking trails, a massive field that my daughter loved playing in," notes one reviewer. Another mentions the "playground, fishing pond, disc golf, recreation and game area."
Consider walk-in distance: Some family-friendly sites require hauling gear. At Julian Price Park, "The tent sites are a distance away from where you park and there are not suitable pads where you could park and camp," explains Lee D. Bring wagons or select drive-up sites if traveling with small children.
Look for water features: Campgrounds with swimming access are popular with families. "The Elk Shoals access is a beautiful spot with awesome swimming hole!" shares Chelsea B. about New River State Park. For younger children, look for gentle, shallow river sections rather than deeper swimming holes.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Bears are present in the region. At Doughton Park, "This was the only place we saw bears but not in our campsite just wandering in another loop," reports Anna R. Most campgrounds require proper food storage in vehicles or bear-proof containers.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Many area campgrounds have size limitations. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "The 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," notes Kristen J. Most campgrounds can accommodate trailers up to 30 feet.
Limited hookup options: Full hookups aren't available at all sites. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "They do not have water hookups—you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R.
Consider leveling needs: Many mountain sites have slopes. At Raccoon Holler, one camper noted their site was "not very level and very tight for my 32 foot RV." Bring extra leveling blocks for the region's terrain challenges.
