K
Kristen M.
Scout
ScoutWhitetop
Great camping spot! Road isn’t horrible going up but there are some rougher areas toward the end of the road. Gorgeous sunset and sunrise spot! Fire rings seemed fairly abundant at the pull offs.
Camping near Laurel Springs, NC
243 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Camping near Laurel Springs, North Carolina ranges from developed campgrounds with RV hookups and cabins to primitive backcountry sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stone Mountain State Park Campground and Wagoner at New River State Park provide developed camping options with various accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The area features mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate different camping styles, from primitive backcountry sites to more developed facilities with amenities. Basin Cove on the Blue Ridge Parkway provides a more primitive experience for tent campers seeking solitude, while campgrounds like Blue Bear Mountain Camp offer glamping options for those desiring more comfort.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many open from April through October. Doughton Park Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway remains accessible until early November, offering campers extended fall opportunities to experience the region's autumn colors. Sites vary significantly in terms of amenities, with some providing full hookups while others maintain a more rustic experience with minimal facilities. The higher elevation of many campgrounds provides cooler temperatures even during summer months. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway. A camper at Doughton Park noted, "It's high in elevation so it's cooled enough to have escaped hot summer days elsewhere. The misty mornings and rolling green hills are beautiful."
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at New River State Park where several campsites offer direct river access. The region's natural beauty and relative seclusion create peaceful camping environments with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Many campgrounds provide access to hiking trails directly from the sites, allowing for day excursions without relocating. Basin Cove campground, while requiring a one-mile hike to reach the sites, rewards visitors with a pristine creekside experience. According to one visitor, "The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way." Campgrounds like Doughton Park offer a blend of privacy and accessibility, with most sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables in well-maintained developed camping areas that still provide a sense of being immersed in nature.
Best Campgrounds near Laurel Springs (243)
1. 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 Availability2. Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"There was a place to eat and drink not far down the road at Laurel Springs."
"On the Blue Ridge Parkway, nestled in the trees and mountains of North Carolina, this campground has been well maintained."
from $30 - $45 / 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. 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 Availability5. 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!"
6. 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."
7. 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 Availability8. Sandy Creek Family Campground
"The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground. Would definitely camp here again!"
"Stayed there for a weekend, great location close to Stone Mtn park. Hiked from there into the state park. Very clean kept campground and nice owner"
9. 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 Availability10. Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Near a creek as well. Just follow the basin creek trail for about a mile and then cross bridge."
"This camp ground is very small and on the side of a very quiet road next to beautiful fields with breath taking views it has no paved roads so bring a truck or suv sedans will get stuck easily there is"
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Winston-Salem, NC
- 1 hr 49 min from Kingsport, TN
- 1 hr 52 min from Blacksburg, VA
- 1 hr 54 min from Johnson City, TN
Recent Camping Photos near Laurel Springs, NC
460 Photos of 243 Laurel Springs Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Wagoner — New River State Park
Raccoon Holler Campground
New River Redemption
Dusty Trails Outfitters
Twin Rivers Family Campground
New River Alleghany Access Primitive Paddle-in — New River State ParkJ
Cedar Rock Campground
New River Canoe and Campground
Stone Mountain State Park Campground
Helton Creek CampgroundJ
Fort Hamby Park
Recent Reviews near Laurel Springs, NC
1287 Reviews of 243 Laurel Springs Campgrounds
Windy W.ScoutDoe River Landing
Beautiful Place, Ugly host, Oct 2026
Let me first start by saying that this campground is absolutely beautiful. I have lived in this area my entire life and the Doe is one of my favorites. I am a avid camper and have camped all over this area. I decided to give this place a try, I own a small pop-up camper and knew it was going to get cold 10/20/2026-10/22/2026, so me and my sister rented the RV at Doe River. #1 check in is not until 3pm, I always order a load of wood from a local guy who delivers to camp sites, I do all my cooking in a Dutch oven over the fire or burgers and dogs in the fire, what is a camping trip without a nice warm fire. The owner came over to my campsite and asked if I had ordered this wood and I replied yes, she then asked what I was going to do with it all, I replied I am going to burn it. So, I told Carl (the wood guy) where to stack it, the owner then said that I need to leave it in my truck bc if I didn't use it all I would have to put it back on my truck and take it home with me, I said really? It's just a unspoken rule that if you don't use all your wood that you pay it forward and leave it for the next camper?? She said absolutely not, So we moved the wood from his truck and into mine. She then asked again why I needed so much wood and that most ppl just buy small bundles from her. And just like that I understood! Carl the wood man and his wife also made a comment about how rude she was about the wood. It does not end there, Not only does she have camaras on some of the out blds which I get, but I don't get why they are pointing directly at camp sites, We felt like we were in a fish bowl the entire time. Every single time we went to the bathroom she showed up abt 5 mins later, There is a camara right above the bathroom door, One on the pavilion, and one on each side of the bathhouse, at the entrances and who know where else. So much for privacy in the great outdoors. I didn't even feel comfortable hiking, we felt like we were being watched constantly. She was constantly there, walking her dog which was not friendly and so big she could hardly control him on the leash which was really scary, she also was driving through several times throughout the day. Then came the kicker, about 1 o'clock in the morning we were freezing, I had turned the heat on in the camper before going to bed and heard it come on, Well the propane ran out between 11pm and 1am, I called her at least 10 times we had every blanket and was still freezing, We decided we would go to the bath house bc it had a mini split hanging on the wall, Out of luck there, it was set on air conditioning with no way to change it, so we found a blow dryer trying to get warm, still the entire time trying to call the owners, We finally ended up in our car until the husband arrived. He acted so annoyed at us and said all u have to do is fip the switch on the propane tanks outside! We had never stayed in a travel trailer before and according to them all we had to do was show up and start glamping!! So, I was supposed to know to go outside at 1 am and switch over propane tanks?? No, It should have been FULL when I got there!!! With attitude he said,"Its Basic Camping" No sir it's not, what I do is basic camping, I was told on the phone that I was glamping, She, the owner also said we should have called 911 when we could not get hold of them so that Carter County police officers could come and wake them up!!! Not sure if that is putting our tax dollars to good use?? Like I said it is truly a beautiful place and has great potential, we left that second night at 11pm because again the heat was not working, we have not asked for any refund we just took the loss. it would be to much of a hassle. We just know better next time. With owners like that they can keep it. Windy Wells/Debra Price
- RRonnie C.
TravelerSugar Hollow Campground
3 stars only because it says water hookups but they are far and few between communal. No spigot at individual sites. Need long hose(s)to reach the connection. Good T-Mobile 5G but too wooded for StarLink. Quiet, shady, somewhat level sites were available. $20/night.
Jacob A.TravelerWhitetop
The road was very bumpy but I got up on my 2WD Honda Odyssey. A couple people came during the day to take photos, but the night was peaceful. A couple campsites on the drive up, less secluded though. View was gorgeous and the sunset was amazing. Amazing spot for stargazing.
Bonnie H.ScoutDoe River Landing
Kylie T & Andrew W. Review not accurate
My husband and I arrived at Doe River Landing for 3 nights and enjoyed everything the resort offered. While there we read the 2 reviews posted by Kylie T, and by Andrew W, who gave the resort a 1 star rating. Not knowing the facts that caused the rating by them, and occurred prior to us, we approach the owner and asked.
The owner showed us videos from their security cameras. These adults has stated in Kylie T review and confirm by Andrew W review that they were a group of 20 adults and "every single one of us is over 21 and family". So why are these adults playing "hide and seek" under the pavilion as they stated? Andrew W stated, "It was not blocked off", yet they had to crawl on the ground and around bushes to get under the pavilion. When the owner yelled at them approximately 10 adults that were under the pavilion crawled out which was captured on the security cameras. Andrew W stated in his review the owner called them hooligans, which is rowdy, destructive persons and from the security cameras, that description is correct. There was no mention of damages in their reviews such as the Adirondack chair they broke or possible damage to the water pipes and electric wires under the pavilion, which the owner was currently checking.
Once we read these two reviews by Kylie T and Andrew W and saw the owners security videos, we felt future customers deserved to know another opinion based on our findings.
These entitled adults justified their review of a 1 star by stating they paid money to use the campground.
I would ask these adults "why do you think it is OK to treat someone else's property in this destructive way?"
Kyle T.ScoutDoe River Landing
Unprofessional hosts that ruins a place with good potential
We brought our whole family out and rented almost every cabin on the property, plus the event center, for the weekend— we gave this place a lot of business. And honestly, the stay itself was great— nice place, no complaints about the cabins. The owner is the problem. He came flying in in his blue F-150 doing 20–30 mph where the posted speed limit is 5, and started screaming at us over something that could've been handled with a simple conversation. His exact words:"Where are your parents? This is a family establishment. I will not have hooligans running around here." Every single one of us is over 21 and family. All we were doing was playing hide and seek— which isn't against any of the property's rules— and there were no other guests to disturb, since we had the entire area rented. He still threatened to call the police, even though it wasn't even quiet hours. Before anyone could get a word in, he peeled out so fast the gravel sprayed up at us and our cars. Then on his way out he drove the wrong way down the property's one-way road, so apparently the rules only apply to guests. It's sad, because the property itself is great, and we were never anything but nice to the owners the whole weekend. To be treated in such an unprofessional manner— screamed at, threatened, and never given so much as an apology afterward— put a real dent in the weekend. We won't be back
- AAndrew W.Scout
Doe River Landing
Beautiful place ruined by unprofessional ownership
Our group of about 20 rented nearly every cabin at Doe River Landing for my friend's wedding weekend, with the reception held on site. The cabins were nice and well-equipped, and the only other guests were in a cabin half a mile away through the woods. Unfortunately, the hosts ruined the stay. One night, some of us were playing hide and seek in an area that wasn't blocked off or against any rule. The host's husband came speeding in at roughly 30 mph(the posted limit is 5), jumped out of his truck screaming that he"will not have child hooligans running around the campground," told us to"go back to the motel we crawled out of," and demanded to see our parents— despite all of us being adults in our twenties. He then peeled out so aggressively he sprayed gravel at us and our cars. It wasn't even quiet hours, and we weren't disturbing anyone. Afterward, the host called us again, passive-aggressive, and questioned our ages— even though you have to be 21 just to rent a cabin there. The property is lovely, but the hosts' behavior put a real damper on what should have been a joyful wedding celebration. It's a shame they treat people paying good money this way. We won't be back.
- SSheila B.Scout
Wytheville KOA
From check in to our stay, large big rig drive through lot. Quiet and clean park. Even had pizza and delicious wings delivered right to our coach. Next time through we hope to stay again.
Debbie M.ScoutArarat River Campground
No Resort Here
This is not a resort type campground. It is a place for people to bring old campers to live full time and long term. The electric and water utilities are original from the 50's and there are constant problems with both. There is a lot of unrecognized potential because the owners do not reinvest any money into anything for the campground.
Guide to Laurel Springs
Camping options near Laurel Springs, North Carolina range from secluded primitive sites to developed facilities with modern amenities. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet, campgrounds in this region experience temperature drops of 10-15 degrees below surrounding lowland areas, creating comfortable summer camping conditions even during July and August. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though amenities may be limited during off-season months.
What to do
Hiking access from campsites: At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, trails connect directly to camping areas. One camper noted, "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see. We checked out the backpack hike camp spots (5) they're a good hike (1.5 mile uphill) but so beautiful, on the creek, 2 are near a small waterfall."
Fishing in creeks and lakes: Many campsites provide stream or lake access where fishing is permitted. At Bandits Roost Campground, visitors appreciate the water proximity. "There are great sites down on the peninsula that have water views... Bike riding in the park is fun and there are plenty of areas to bike."
Disc golf courses: Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers disc golf on site as part of their recreational amenities. A camper mentioned, "Clean bath house. Great hiking trails. Friendly staff." The course is available to all campers without additional fees.
Historical exploration: Visit historic cabins and homesteads within short driving distance from campsites. At Grayson Highlands State Park, one visitor shared, "The Creekside Cabin hike is very technical as in tree roots and rocks, but so worth the exertion! Very cool waterfall and aside from some modern day trash there is still the old wood stove and pantry in the cabin."
What campers like
Wide spacing between sites: At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, campers consistently mention the privacy. "The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," one reviewer noted. Sites at this campground are positioned to maximize privacy while maintaining views.
Creekside camping opportunities: Many campsites offer stream access for cooling off. At Basin Cove, "The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as 'base camp' for day hikes... The campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night. Stars are amazing!"
Primitive hiking access: Several campgrounds require hiking to reach sites, creating more secluded experiences. According to one Basin Cove visitor, "Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds. Maybe some horseback people. Campground has tent pads, picnic tables, fire pits, pit toilets, water pump."
Helpful camp hosts: Staff at campgrounds near Laurel Springs receive consistent positive mentions. A Twin Rivers Family Campground visitor stated, "Susan (the owner) has to be one of the nicest people I've ever met... They deliver firewood and ice to your site. Pick up trash daily."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved roads that may challenge smaller vehicles. For Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "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."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Basin Cove requires proper preparation. A camper explains, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you. There are no picnic tables but each site does have wood logs as seats. There are fire pits and food storage lockers on site."
Seasonal operation differences: Most campgrounds change operating schedules during winter. At Doughton Park Campground, a visitor noted, "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, so we checked it out and saw a sign saying that it would close for the season on November 4 so we were good!"
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (May-October), reservations are strongly recommended. At Grayson Highlands State Park, "I was there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Raccoon Holler Campground offers extensive recreation options. A visitor noted, "This place was amazing! There's plenty of things for the kids and the adults to do there... There's plenty of swings throughout the campground for people to enjoy along with basketball court, horse shoes, fishing, frisbee golf, walking trails, a massive field that my daughter loved playing in."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. At Stone Mountain State Park, one camper shared, "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," making it ideal for families interested in nature observation.
Water play areas: Several campsites offer access to shallow streams where children can play safely. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, visitors mentioned, "The tent sites on the tree line were our pick. Lots of shade on a big grassy field, with both a play set for the kids and a volleyball court... The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground."
Field spaces for games: Open areas for family activities exist at multiple campgrounds. A Blue Bear Mountain Camp visitor noted, "The morning sun lights up the meadow which is the campground centerpiece. A small outdoor arena for music events is off to one side."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountains require leveling blocks. At Raccoon Holler Campground, one RVer noted, "This is a very large campground with a large percentage of permanent RVs... 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."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. At Wagoner — New River State Park, a visitor mentioned, "After a string of rough camps and brutal temps this mountain spot was so welcome... I selected a powered spot even though I tent camp. Sometimes it's just nice to charge everything back up before heading out."
RV size limitations: Mountain roads and campsite designs limit RV sizes at many locations. A Bandits Roost camper explained, "We had a back in site with W/E, 94B. This is a good interior site. There are great sites down on the peninsula that have water views but we were not able to get one on this trip."
Electric availability variations: Power options differ between campgrounds. At New River State Park, "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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Laurel Springs, NC?
What camping is available near Laurel Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Laurel Springs, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 243 campgrounds and RV parks near Laurel Springs, NC and 13 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Laurel Springs, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Laurel Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Laurel Springs, NC is Stone Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 56 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Laurel Springs, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Laurel Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Laurel Springs, NC.
What parks are near Laurel Springs, NC?
What parks are near Laurel Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Laurel Springs, NC that allow camping, notably Blue Ridge Parkway and W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir.
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