Glamping accommodations near Abingdon, Virginia offer diverse overnight options for travelers exploring the Appalachian Mountains. The region sits at elevations between 1,900-5,500 feet, creating microclimate zones with temperature differences up to 15°F between valleys and ridges. Weather patterns shift quickly in these mountains, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking to scenic vistas: At Hickory Ridge Campground, trails lead to memorable mountain views. "What a great site. Terrain changes throughout with dense forest and brushy ridgelines. Makes for a really great hike and camp. Several Backpacking sites just past Mt. Rogers summit trail. Worth a few nights stay," notes one camper.
Wildlife observation: The wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park attract many glampers. A visitor shared, "Great campsite with an amazing added bonus- WILD HORSES AND PONIES. (Short hike from the campsite). Great hikes close by with sweet wild ponies that let you get close for pictures."
Water activities: The 6,430-acre Watauga Lake provides multiple water-based recreation options. "Deep and clean lake," reports a visitor who adds, "If you get the right spot you will be on the water and can tie up your canoe or kayak."
What campers like
Mountain temperatures: The elevated campsites at Blue Bear Mountain Camp offer cooler summer conditions. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," explains one reviewer who appreciated the climate difference.
Creek access: Many sites feature waterfront locations with natural sound barriers. At Hurricane Campground, "Great spot, very well kept and plenty of space... Loved having the sound of the river right next to our site."
Varied accommodations: The platforms at Royal Oak Campground provide stable tent foundations. "All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The bathhouse was very clean and taken care of. There are several spigots with drinking water through the campground."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require careful navigation on mountain roads. One camper at Grindstone Recreation Area noted, "The roads are all in good condition... We stayed in site 30D (Double) with 4 tents, 9 people and 3 vehicles. It would be tight with 4 cars."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "There is no cell phone service," reports a visitor to Grindstone, making it ideal "if you want to escape it all."
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly. One camper advised, "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case."
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Warriors' Path State Park offers structured programs for younger visitors. "They have a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day," reports one camper who found plenty for kids to do.
Site selection for play space: Choose locations with room for activities. "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites."
Educational opportunities: Rangers often provide learning activities. "We loved the kayaks - if you only have 1 hour, power right out of the boat slip (past the beach) up and around the far part of the lake. Utter solitude among the hills!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: Check specifications carefully when booking. At Camp Burson, "Our site was very large and well situated, though not shaded or private. The sites are clean and spacious (except for the row of pull through sites in the middle, which have less space)."
Hookup locations: Position vehicles strategically for utilities. "Our site (#43) was on the end of a row with our patio facing a hillside next to a stream that made for a very pleasant rushing water sound... water and electric were well-placed."
Tree clearance: Watch for overhanging branches at some locations. "The only problem we had were that some of the trees need to be trimmed back and scratched the upper sides of our coach."
