The area surrounding Scottville, North Carolina sits within the Blue Ridge Mountain range at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines. Horse enthusiasts can access over 60 miles of interconnected trails through the Mount Rogers Recreation Area and surrounding forests. Seasonal temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer daytime highs rarely exceeding 85°F while spring and fall nights often drop below 40°F.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers hiking routes to several cascades within walking distance. As visitor Charli R. notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for wild ponies on trails near Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park. Camper Kelly C. reports, "Lot s of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
Lake activities: At Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway, water recreation is available seasonally. "There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake. There's also a trail that you can access from the park that leads to Hebron Rock Colony which is an incredible hiking trail," shares Danielle L.
What campers like
Quiet creek-side sites: Sandy Creek Family Campground offers water-adjacent camping spots. Ann H. remarks, "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer well-separated camping areas. Nick at Julian Price Park Campground mentions, "Great family campground, with enough separation from other tent sites. Camp here every year with the family and always have a great time."
Primitive backcountry options: Basin Cove Campground provides secluded hike-in sites for those seeking solitude. Julie L. explains, "This site should not be confused with any other sites in area by similar name. You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit. The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: High elevation camping requires proper gear in all seasons. Scott B. from Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground cautions, "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facilities range from newly renovated to basic. Brian B. from Sandy Creek Family Campground notes, "Nice campground. Had a nice site on a little creek. Owner was nice. However, the shower house was the worst of any campground I have ever seen. Dirty, plumbing was a mess."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds offer potable water. Jean C. from Fox Creek Horse Camp advises, "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites. Manure collection available."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play structures for children. Ann H. from Sandy Creek Family Campground mentions, "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground."
Easy hiking trails: Look for shorter loops suitable for younger hikers. Jolie L. from Julian Price Park Campground suggests, "Hike the Boone Fork Trail, a 5 mile loop right across the parkway. Beautiful anytime of the year."
Shade considerations: Some sites offer better tree cover than others. Myron C. explains, "The sites in E loop are mainly for RVs and have less shade. One section in the A loop also is an open field and has limited shade."
Tips for RVers
Site access challenges: Some horse campgrounds near Scottville, North Carolina have limited turnaround space. Jean C. from Collins Cove Horse Campground — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest notes, "The campsites are back-in along a single spur with turn-around at the end."
Dump station locations: Plan your waste disposal carefully. Becca C. from Sandy Creek Family Campground warns, "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
Site leveling requirements: Research individual sites before booking. David B. from Stone Mountain State Park Campground shares, "The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups."
