The Appalachian region around Appalachia, Virginia sits at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions throughout the year. The area features a network of forests, rivers, and mountain trails connecting various camping facilities. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s while winter nights often drop below freezing.
What to do
Canoeing on the Clinch River: Visitors to Natural Tunnel State Park Campground can explore the scenic waterways. "Canoed Clinch River, caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel. Highly recommend!" shares Rob J. Guided water excursions provide opportunities to see local wildlife.
Guided historical tours: Learn about the region's past from costumed interpreters. A visitor to Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground noted, "There's also a sweet man who gives tours of the replica farm of David Crocket... in character and costume." These educational programs run primarily during summer months.
Mountain hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect campsites to scenic overlooks. "We were in site B1, as a small trail (Grassy Overlook trail) took us to see the northern lights one evening," reports a camper from Breaks Interstate Park Campground. Most trails range from easy to moderate difficulty with distances of 0.5 to 3 miles.
What campers like
Free firewood delivery: Some primitive camping sites include complimentary firewood services. At Kingdom Come State Park Campground, "Every day a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping," says Brian B. This service typically operates during peak season (April-October).
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. One camper at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground said, "The bathhouse was exceptionally nice and there was also laundry and wifi available." Most park facilities include hot showers, flush toilets, and ADA-accessible options.
Diverse glamping options: Glamping in Appalachia, Virginia offers various comfort levels. A visitor to Natural Tunnel State Park Yurts explains, "As far as yurts go, I think the price was reasonable and is a little bit more separated from the rest of the sites which is a plus! Yurt itself was clean, comfortable and super spacious for just 3 people."
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Prepare for high temperatures in certain accommodations. A camper at Natural Tunnel State Park Yurts advised, "Once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven. The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside." Many campers recommend bringing portable fans and extension cords during summer months.
Bear activity precautions: Multiple parks report bears in the area. A Kingdom Come State Park Campground visitor noted, "Kingdom Come State Park is known for bear activity, but we saw none. The area provides many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired." Food storage containers are mandatory at most sites.
Limited services nearby: Pack supplies before arrival. "Be sure to bring all necessary supplies BEFORE you get here, nearest stores are a 20 minute drive away on crooked mountain roads," advises Robert L. about Breaks Interstate Park Campground. Many campers recommend bringing extra food, water, and essential medications.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated kid-friendly areas: Several campgrounds feature specialized recreational spaces. At Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground, "My son and I enjoyed a round of disc golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground," reports Jedidiah J. Most playgrounds are located within walking distance of camping areas.
Educational opportunities: Programs focused on nature education engage young campers. "In the warm seasons they have a ranger that comes around and even little events for kids. I remember picking apart an owl pellet with the ranger. Very outdoor educational," shares a visitor to Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground. Programs generally run on weekends and during summer months.
Swimming facilities: Many parks include water recreation options. "Great park! It's got all you need from camping to trails to swimming to even learning history about the area and the park itself! Great for the family!" notes Jaren E. about Natural Tunnel State Park Campground. Most swimming areas operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty during peak hours.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks. That said, great campground," advises Michelle I. about Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground. Most sites require 2-4 inches of leveling.
Site selection considerations: Check site dimensions before booking. A visitor to Breaks Interstate Park Campground warns, "Be careful when choosing a site as some are challenging to get into with larger units." Many campgrounds list maximum RV lengths for each site on their reservation systems.
