Tent camping near Atkins, Virginia offers varying mountainous terrains with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 4,200 feet throughout the surrounding areas. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during day and drop to 55-65°F at night. Many primitive sites across the region have limited or no cell service, creating genuine disconnection opportunities for campers seeking solitude.
What to do
Hiking local mountains: Chestnut Knob provides moderate to challenging trails with elevation gain. "We've made this hike several times with our dogs. It is a great shorter hike with great views over Burkes Garden (nicknamed God's Thumbprint)," reports Brandon W. from Chestnut Knob Shelter.
Water activities: The New River offers paddling options for various skill levels with local outfitters providing equipment. A visitor at Dusty Trails Outfitters shared, "Dustin rents out single canoes and kayaks, tubes and luxury fishing kayaks as well... the river was GORGEOUS!"
Wildlife viewing: The higher elevations around Scales Trailhead provide opportunities to see wild ponies. Jay N. noted at Scales, "Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!" Look for ponies around salt lick areas.
Swimming in natural water: Several creek-side camping locations offer swimming opportunities during warmer months. Erik C. mentioned at Washington & Jefferson sites that "Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night."
Mountain biking: Access nearby trails within 10-15 miles of most campgrounds. The Virginia Creeper Trail connects to multiple dispersed camping areas. Shari G. noted, "The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path."
What campers like
Natural isolation: Blue Bear Mountain's primitive sites provide genuine seclusion. As Sydney S. describes, "This camp ground was a very private spot. On top of a hill over looking a lake, this sport made us feel very one with nature. Everything was pack in-pack out and about 1.5 miles in. The forest around us was quite dense allowing for us to feel like the only ones out there."
Temperature relief: Higher elevation camps offer cooler summer conditions. A review for Blue Bear Mountain Camp notes, "Not only is the weather so much cooler in the summer there (70-80 in July!), it's just a wonderful, down to earth place to be."
River access: Many sites feature waterfront camping with direct water access. Kirsten J. from Dusty Trails Outfitters shared, "As we pulled down the gravel road, we noticed each site had their own port-a-potty, hand washing station (with soap), campfire ring, picnic table and trash can... the kids were happy playing in the babbling brook through our site."
Night sky experiences: Dark sky conditions and natural light shows impress campers. "Aside from the great breeze off the river, the darkness with no artificial light and the size of our campsite - nothing could beat the fireflies. As darkness set in, the fireflies across the river began to light up, like festive lights," described one camper.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. Jon M. at Scales Trailhead Basecamp warns, "The road in is....'rocky'. High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites require full self-sufficiency. At Cavitts Creek Park, David M. notes, "Being primitive there is no electric at the tent sites. There is an outlet by the sink in the shower house if you need to charge your phone. There aren't any external outlets at the shower house."
Cell coverage gaps: Service varies dramatically by location. Sagar B. from Washington & Jefferson sites mentions, "Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek's sound is pleasant. No network at all."
Campsite terrain: Rocky ground can make tent setup challenging. David M. at Cavitts Creek Park advised, "Bring a hammer or find a rock to hammer your tent stakes in because the ground where you would want to pitch a tent is mostly rock."
Water source planning: Sources vary widely between locations. Mateo M. from Scales Trailhead noted, "Bring plenty of water there are creeks and running water around but no running water at the sites, if you're a must have shower person bring a shower bag."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: New River State Park offers accessible tent sites with nearby bathrooms. Todd T. shares at New River Alleghany Access, "My family went to tent camp and enjoyed our stay. We discovered others with campers that had wonderful campsites. The bathroom facilities are new and very clean."
Internet access considerations: Some sites maintain connectivity for emergency contact. Jessica B. at New River Alleghany Access mentions, "I am new and cell phone dependent. Good service on the river, and very clean."
Swimming accessibility: Creek-adjacent sites provide natural water play areas. A camper at Washington & Jefferson sites shared, "Loved this spot - we got lucky and parked right next to a swimming hole, had a gorgeous swim and enjoyed our time."
Weather planning: Mountain elevations create temperature swings requiring layered clothing. Raven B. from Blue Bear Mountain notes, "The constant light breeze and lack of mosquitoes is a treat," but evening temperatures can drop significantly.
Day trip options: Plan for nearby town access when kids need breaks. Jennifer K. from New River Alleghany Access advises, "Thought we might be able to use our bikes, but unless you like steep hills and narrow roads, it's really not an option," suggesting families plan for driving between activities.
Tips from RVers
Campground terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have difficult access roads unsuitable for larger rigs. Kari H. from Cavitts Creek Park observed, "The RV parking was a gravel lot with large RVs packed in tight... Quite hilly to get to it from some of the spots."
Water/electric setup: Blue Bear Mountain Camp requires specific preparation. A camper notes, "They do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out."
Road clearance issues: Access roads to remote sites require planning. A reviewer mentioned, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there."
Space between sites: Layout varies significantly between campgrounds. Mandy R. from Blue Bear Mountain Camp advises, "The camper spots are very spacious and C1-C3 are completely shaded. C3 is the best by far! But you have to book early because C3 is very popular!"
