RV campers in Ararat, Virginia encounter diverse terrain ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet elevation with varying campground amenities. The area experiences mild summers with highs in the 80s and cooler mountain nights, making spring through fall the prime camping seasons. All RV sites feature gravel surfaces with most offering full hookup capability.
What to do
River access activities: Fishing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities exist along the New River, particularly at Riverwalk RV Park where campers can use the walking path that runs beside the campground and river. According to Ricky J., "In the summer if you are into kayaking there is a local kayak outdoor adventure place five minutes down the road."
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds have added disc golf amenities for guests. Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground features a 9-hole disc golf course on the property. One visitor noted, "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!"
Blue Ridge Parkway exploration: Multiple campgrounds offer convenient access to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Willville Motorcycle Camp sits less than a mile from the Parkway on US 58 Business. Brian F. mentioned, "Lots of great riding in the area and only a couple of minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway."
Hiking trails: The Mountain to Sea Trail runs through downtown Elkin near Riverwalk RV Park. Ricky J. shared, "Also in Elkin are great trails to go hiking and the Mountain to Sea Trail runs right through downtown Elkin."
What campers like
Community atmosphere: Many campgrounds foster social environments with group activities and gathering spaces. At Willville Motorcycle Camp, Jack M. appreciated that "Most evenings riders will gather on the porch to talk bikes and life - should you care to join in. Coffee in the mornings, restaurants less than a mile away."
Clean facilities: Fries New RiverTrail RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance. Jennifer K. mentioned, "Small, sites right near a babbling brook, and very quaint... The sites were full hook-ups and the campground had really good Wi-Fi."
Local attractions: The region offers small-town charm with shops, antiques, and local food. According to Ricky J., "Jonesvillle and Elkin both have antique stores and Elkin is a nice town to stroll through with shops and a local brewery."
Scenic views: Greystone RV Park provides unobstructed views of Pilot Mountain. Jennifer H. described it as "one of the best campgrounds we've found in all of our RV travels... the unobstructed view of Pilot Mountain is the icing on the cake."
What you should know
Site dimensions vary: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others are more compact. At Greystone RV Park, Greg H. noted, "10 flat, paved spots on the top of hillside looking up at Pilot Mt. You're right next to your neighbors, but was a great spot for a stopover."
Seasonal hours: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Lake Myers RV Resort runs from April 1 to November 1, while others remain open year-round.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Riverwalk RV Park, Jeremy D. observed, "Very quiet during the week but have been told by the camp hosts that every weekend is booked for a long time."
Pet policies: Rules regarding pets differ significantly between locations. Willville Motorcycle Camp does not allow pets, as Joe S. confirmed: "pets aren't allowed as far as I can tell."
Connectivity levels: Cell service and WiFi quality varies by location. At Lake Ridge RV Resort, Alicia L. found that "Staff are friendly and shower houses were kept clean even in off season. Pet friendly; just got to scoop the poop!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated amenities: Some campgrounds offer more family-oriented facilities. Lake Myers RV Resort provides multiple swimming areas according to Gennie C.: "Many activities offered for family with 2 large pools etc."
Consider age appropriateness: Activities may target specific age groups. Keanu G. advised about Lake Myers, "There was not much at all for them to do other than play in the pool, which was a tad bit dirty. BUT there were storms that weekend so I don't think that was their fault. There is a play ground and game room for older kids but nothing for the smaller children to do."
Check seasonal programming: Indian Heritage RV Park offers a family-friendly environment with nature viewing opportunities. One camper noted, "There are ground hogs and crawdads. Near a main road, but still very quaint."
Plan for varied weather: Mountain conditions can change quickly, requiring appropriate clothing and shelter options for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Concrete pads at some locations eliminate leveling concerns. At Greystone RV Park, Nan L. found "Pull thru sites with concrete pads. No leveling needed. Couldn't be easier to pull in and set up."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds require navigating winding mountain roads. Don L. noted about Chantilly Farm, "Wow, getting there was quite a journey over narrow curvy roads but once there it was a nice area."
Utility connections: RV parks offer varying electrical capabilities. At Black Dog Acres RV Park, Drew W. found "Super easy pull through sites with convenient hookups. No bathrooms so did need to hook up water."
Length restrictions: Always verify your RV length works with specific sites before booking. Tom at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park works to accommodate different sizes, with Martha S. noting they "can handle the smaller TT to the largest monster-sized motor homes."
