Campgrounds near Ararat, Virginia range from established RV parks to rustic tent sites, with several options along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Homeplace Recreational Park in Ararat offers tent and RV camping with full hookups, while Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground provides cabin accommodations approximately 15 miles from Ararat. The region includes multiple KOAs and state park campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, including Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park in North Carolina. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with many campgrounds operating on limited schedules. Rocky Knob Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway operates from May through early November, while others like Mayberry Campground remain open year-round. The mountainous terrain creates variable weather conditions, particularly at higher elevations along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer and fall foliage seasons. Road access varies significantly, with some campgrounds requiring navigation of steep mountain roads. As one camper noted about a local campground, "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and peaceful settings of the area's campgrounds. Several developed campgrounds provide amenities like electric hookups, showers, and dump stations, though amenity levels vary widely. The Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds tend to offer more rustic experiences with fewer hookups but better access to hiking trails. Water features are common attractions, with some campgrounds offering pond or river access. A reviewer of Homeplace Recreational Park gave it five stars, describing it as having "drinking water, electric hookups, fires allowed, firewood, market, pets allowed, picnic table, reservable, sanitary dump, sewer hookups, showers, toilets, trash, and water hookups." Noise levels vary by location, with campgrounds closer to highways experiencing more traffic sounds than those nestled deeper in the mountains.
"This KOA is located in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge close to Galax, home of the annual Fiddlers Convention."
"Wonderful campground close to exit of I77. Old growth canopy of trees provide ample shade. Pool was nice. Restroom/Showers were wonderful and clean, also ample water pressure."
"Some spots are near I74 but most are not. Large lake and history here. Close to town to see the local legends hometown."
"Mayberry is conveniently located near the highway. The property is well maintained. The staff is very helpful."
$27 - $98 / night
"We spent one night at Hanging Rock State Park on our way home to West Virginia from South Carolina."
"There really isn't an option to put a tent up anywhere outside of the pad on this site. Water is located right next to the site, and the bathroom is right up the hill behind the site."
$17 - $27 / night
"Campground Review: Pilot Mountain State Park is located in Pinnacle, NC, approximately 2.5 hours away from Asheville, NC and is known for it’s giant pinnacle, Pilot Mountain, that rises 2,000 feet into"
"On highway 52 for 30 miles you can see the top of Pilot Mountain sticking out like a sore thumb."
$30 - $78 / night
"Located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway the views are amazing. You have access to several small towns and state parks with plenty of trials and things to see. "
"Many hiking trails . Very friendly owners. Will stay here again. Close to I77."
$150 - $200 / night
"Just less than a mile west of the Blue Ridge Parkway on US 58 Business, Willville is THE motorcycle camping slot for me in Virginia. thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights."
"This was my first stay at a motorcycle camp and all I can say is I would feel as safe as a father can, in any situation, if my daughter wanted to go there on a solo ride."
$30 - $45 / night
"Rocky Knob Campground is right outside of Floyd, VA off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Southwest region of the state. Why stay here? It's right outside of Floyd."
"Inner part of the loop sites are quite close to each other but have convenient access to bathhouse, which is kept pretty clean."
"It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north. The bathrooms and showers were excellent, and a washer and dryer was available— a great bonus.
"
"The trees, the adjacent pastures, the farm pond, the rolling hills, and the scenic views make this a great little campground. The bottom row of sites looks directly at Pilot Mtn in the distance."
"Close to trails and waterfalls. Open fields and mountain backdrop. Water electric bath house."
"Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced. Will go again."
"The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night."
Guidethe host is easy to deal with. If you arrive late, pay in the morning. My wife said the restrooms were old but were in excellent condition and clean. In fact, she raved about them.
ScoutIf you’re an outdoor lover like myself and you want to enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of Mother Nature, this campground is the perfect location.
Don’t forget your telescope for when the sun goes down. There’s a perfect spot on the side of mountain for breathtaking views.
ScoutCamped a few times with a group of veterans. The site is perfect for tent camping with multiple fire pits and firewood on site. Place isnt too far from Roanoke where I live so was a perfect weekend getaway without having to go far. We had cookouts and hung by the fire just relaxing and taking in the mountain scenery. Plenty of trails to walk and a few ponds on property to fish. Open year round but im too much a wimp to winter camp, cant wait to head back in the spring!!
ScoutI would definitely recommend this place.
Scout⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores in Floyd, Virginia is something truly special. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains on nearly 100 acres, this property isn’t just a campground— it’s a place of peace, restoration, and purpose. From the moment you arrive, you feel the quiet. The kind of quiet that settles your spirit. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Rolling mountain views, stocked ponds, winding creeks, well-kept trails through beautiful hardwoods— it feels untouched yet thoughtfully cared for. Evenings around the fire pit under a sky filled with stars are unforgettable. You wake up to birds singing instead of traffic noise. It’s the reset we all need. What makes Camp S’mores stand out is the potential and the heart behind it. This is the perfect setting for:• Church retreats and ministry gatherings• Veterans looking for rest, healing, and brotherhood• Scout troops building skills and character• Families wanting a safe, peaceful outdoor experience• RV travelers seeking a quiet, resort-style mountain escape Whether you’re tent camping, van camping, or bringing your RV, the setting feels private, spacious, and serene. You truly feel like you have room to breathe. If you’re looking for a place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and spend meaningful time with people who matter— Camp S’mores delivers in every way. We will absolutely be back. Highly recommend supporting this hidden gem in Floyd, VA.
ScoutMyself and a small group of friends spent an extended weekend on the property of Camp S’mores and thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful and serene setting. The property has an abundance of everything that you would want when wanting to get away. The nature trails, ponds, creeks, beautiful trees, fire pit, and a night sky lit up by stars. So PEACEFUL! We couldn’t have found a better site to stay at! We have decided to make this an annual trip and will be heading back this spring!
ScoutVery beautiful scenery, amazing views.
ScoutThis is a really low low budget homeless camp. The campers are allowed trash around their spots and can have broken down vehicles to use as storage. Every sight has a tarp on it and looks to be drug addicts. Save yourself the chance of getting robbed and catch something and go somewhere else. I promise you your kids don't need to see this place.
LegendYou can only access Doubles Shoals Campground from the New River Trail of from the New River in a Kayak. It is a great place to camp if you are traveling the trail or river. The two sites include picnic tables, fire ring with grill, benches and a pit toilet.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, camping sites near Ararat, Virginia offer a mix of valley views and forested settings. The region experiences moderate temperatures with cooler nights at higher elevations, particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway where summer highs typically remain below 85°F and evening temperatures can drop into the 50s.
Fishing opportunities: The Homeplace Recreational Park in Ararat features a pond dam and stream where campers can enjoy water activities. "The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night," notes a reviewer who stayed in June.
Climbing excursions: Just 25 miles from Ararat, the rock faces at Pilot Mountain State Park Campground attract climbers of various skill levels. "I've been here several times, and it's one of my favorite places for toprope climbing in the area," shares one visitor. The park offers dedicated climbing areas with bolted anchors for top-roping.
Trail exploration: Hanging Rock State Park Campground provides access to trails leading to waterfalls and mountain vistas within 30 miles of Ararat. A camper reports, "The trails were very challenging and the views were spectacular. Definitely worth the trip." The park features multiple waterfall trails ranging from 0.3-4.3 miles in length.
Mountain scenery: Jomeokee Campground in Pinnacle offers unobstructed views of Pilot Mountain from certain campsites. "The bottom row of sites looks directly at Pilot Mtn in the distance. The sunsets are gorgeous," explains a camper who visited in September 2020. The campground features open fields where children can play while adults enjoy the mountain backdrop.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses at area campgrounds. At Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground, a reviewer noted: "The bathhouses are immaculate - showers are nice and hot and have good pressure." Similarly, a Jomeokee visitor commented on the facilities being "clean and functional."
Natural settings: Most campgrounds in the region retain their natural character with minimal development. "If you like 'natural' 'real' campgrounds without all the asphalt and concrete, you will love this one," wrote a Jomeokee camper. Tent sites typically feature dirt or gravel pads surrounded by trees rather than manufactured surfaces.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevation creates temperature variations requiring layered clothing, especially at Rocky Knob Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway. "Loop C is tent only. Inner part of the loop sites are quite close to each other but have convenient access to bathhouse, which is kept pretty clean," notes a camper who visited in late October, mentioning "great views of surrounding mountains as the leaves fall away."
Seasonal operations: Many area campgrounds close during winter months or operate with limited services. Rocky Knob Campground is only open May through early November, while Meadows of Dan Campground remains open year-round but with varying amenity availability.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during peak foliage season (mid-October) and summer holidays. A Hanging Rock camper advised: "Definitely book those sites if you have a big RV," after finding navigation difficult upon late arrival.
Kid-friendly activities: Mayberry Campground in Mount Airy offers amenities specifically for families with children. "The Mayberry campground has so much going on, you really don't have to leave camp. Just sit back and relax," shares a repeat visitor who notes the campground has "two playgrounds" and "a great park for base camping and exploring the area."
Water features: Several campgrounds include water attractions that appeal to children during hot summer days. Homeplace Recreational Park features "an actual water park within the campground" according to a recent visitor, though availability may vary seasonally.
Open play areas: Look for campgrounds with fields for active children. Jomeokee Campground provides "beautiful large open fields where all the children ran free," making it quieter for other campers despite being full during a reviewer's weekend stay.
Site selection: At Meadows of Dan Campground, RV owners should consider tree coverage when selecting sites. "This campground has lovely tree cover in both the RV and tent camping areas," notes a first-time RVer who enjoyed the experience so much they extended their stay by two additional weeks.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry roads requiring careful navigation. A reviewer at Jomeokee Campground mentioned: "The dirt road to get to the sites and close trees were hard for us to navigate with such a big rig but that was partly because it was dark."
Utility considerations: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. A Meadows of Dan Campground visitor noted that "No trees for the pull throughs but still a nice place" when describing the RV sites, highlighting the common tradeoff between shade and optimal satellite reception for RVers requiring clear sky visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ararat, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ararat, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 133 campgrounds and RV parks near Ararat, VA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Ararat, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ararat, VA is Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA with a 4.8-star rating from 27 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ararat, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Ararat, VA.
What parks are near Ararat, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Ararat, VA that allow camping, notably Philpott Lake and Blue Ridge Parkway.
Keep Exploring
