Bastian, Virginia sits along the southern Appalachian Mountains at an elevation of approximately 2,600 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months, with cooler mountain nights even in summer. Mountain elevation changes affect RV navigation with grades up to 8% on some approach roads to camping areas.
What to do
Hiking access to New River Trail: The New River Trail is accessible from multiple campgrounds, offering biking and walking opportunities. At Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, guests appreciate the proximity to outdoor recreation. "Catch the head of the 58 mile trail just 2 blocks from the RV site. We rode the first 6 miles (and back) of the New River Trail to the train trestle and through the tunnel, just beyond. Easy ride with 2% grade," notes Jennifer K.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access with varying catch potential. River Country Campground provides river front sites with direct water access. "Beautiful biking/hiking trail. Kayaking, fishing w blocks as well," reports Nancy C. from her stay at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Local music experiences: The region features authentic mountain music traditions. While staying at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, visitors can explore nearby music venues. One camper mentioned, "The town is on the 'Crooked River Music Trail' and music is an important part of the their heritage. Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!!"
What campers like
Affordable riverside locations: Army Camp offers free camping with basic amenities. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," reports Rachel S.
Quiet mountain settings: Many campers value the peaceful atmosphere in the region's campgrounds. At Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, one visitor noted, "Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds. Gravel parking pads."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention facility upkeep as a positive factor. "Very clean and well kept campground. Our site was level. The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms," wrote Noel L. about Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies significantly throughout the region. At Pipestem RV Park & Campground, you'll find better connectivity than more remote locations. "WiFi and cable are great in the entire park," reported a visitor at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park about their technology amenities.
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks near Bastian have difficult access roads. One camper at Shady Rest RV Park warned, "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. At Army Camp, water levels fluctuate significantly with rainfall. "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive…30 ft from our tent pad. Even though it had not rained in 18 hours, the New River continued to swell," observed one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Ridge RV Resort provides family-friendly water activities. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RVs/campers," according to Melinda J.
Nature education centers: Several state parks in the region offer nature programming. At Pipestem RV Park & Campground, visitors can access educational resources. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," reports Molly F.
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. One visitor at Brushcreek Falls RV Resort mentioned, "We had plenty of room to park our RV and there was a very nice new swingset Nearby."
Tips from RVers
Overnight stopover locations: Fort Chiswell RV Park provides convenient access for travelers passing through the area. "Awesome campground, quiet and less than a mile off of 81. All pull thru, full hookup, and level sites," notes Mary P. This makes Fort Chiswell one of the more accessible rv parks near Bastian, Virginia for those making longer journeys.
Water pressure considerations: Many rv campgrounds near Bastian experience variable water pressure. At Shady Rest RV Park, one camper shared, "Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes but the pressure was adequate for making coffee, brushing our teeth and filling the water bowls for the dogs."
Specialized campgrounds: Willville Motorcycle Camp offers a unique experience for motorcycle travelers. "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot," states Brian F.
