RV sites near Abingdon, Virginia provide convenient access to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Trail. The region contains several campgrounds situated at elevations between 1,800 and 3,500 feet, creating temperature variations that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Camping options range from full-service RV resorts to primitive sites with varying degrees of cell coverage and amenities depending on location.
What to do
Creeper Trail biking: The Virginia Creeper Trail offers 34 miles of relatively flat, scenic biking with easy access from Laurel Creek RV Park in Damascus. "This campground is small and no bathrooms, but it is directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town," notes one visitor.
River activities: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing, tubing, and swimming. At Peak Creek RV Campground, "Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream," according to a recent camper, making it an ideal spot for cooling off during summer visits.
Mountain hiking: Trail networks throughout the region connect to campgrounds with varying difficulty levels. "Lots of hiking to do" at Doughton Park Campground, according to visitors, with trails accessible directly from the camping area. The Blue Ridge Parkway location provides additional hiking options within short driving distances.
What campers like
Riverside settings: Waterfront camping spots rank among visitors' favorites in the region. "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views. I'm under a weeping willow. Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel," reports one camper at Laurel Creek RV Park, highlighting the natural environment.
Proximity to small towns: Camping facilities near charming mountain communities allow for convenient supply runs and local exploration. Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground offers "the greenway runs just over the river and takes you into Big Stone Gap where you will find local restaurants and shops, as well as every city's fast food restaurants," according to a visitor.
Community amenities: Shared spaces at campgrounds enhance social experiences. Jessie Lea RV Park features "an amazing covered shelter with picnic tables, rocking chairs and grills" while offering "very beautiful place!! Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground."
What you should know
Mountain driving considerations: Accessing campsites in the region often requires navigating mountainous terrain. At Doughton Park Campground, "Each site has two pads– I'm assuming one is if you have a trailer or 5th wheel and one to park your car. However, even though there are two, they are not long, so bringing a large 5th wheel might be problematic, and a large Class A would definitely be challenged."
Seasonal temperature variations: Higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler summer temperatures but limited winter operations. Doughton Park "would close for the season on November 4" according to one visitor, while noting "it's high in elevation so it's cooler than the surrounding areas."
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom availability varies significantly across the region. Lakeview RV Resort offers "clean and well maintained" facilities with "friendly staff," while others like Laurel Creek RV Park have "no bathrooms/showers" despite full hookups.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets with specific regulations. Lakeview RV Resort has a "nice dog park" according to reviewers, making it suitable for families traveling with four-legged members.
Wildlife sightings: Bear activity occurs in certain campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. "This was the only place we saw bears but not in our campsite just wandering in another loop," reports a visitor at Doughton Park Campground, suggesting families should follow ranger guidance on food storage.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. River Country Campground & RV Park features a "new playground for the kids" according to recent reviews, providing on-site entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Site conditions vary across campgrounds, with some requiring additional equipment. At Doughton Park Campground, campers note "site surface: Blacktop" which typically requires less leveling than gravel or dirt sites found at other facilities.
WiFi connectivity: Internet access can be limited in mountain locations, though some campgrounds provide solutions. "Wifi works well" at Lakeview RV Resort according to a recent visitor, making it suitable for digital nomads or those needing connectivity.
Spacing considerations: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "Although our site is right on top of our neighbor, that is NOT the norm. Sites are spaced out with some full-timers, part-timers and vacationers," notes a camper at Jessie Lea RV Park, suggesting requesting specific sites when possible.
