Tent campsites near Roanoke, Virginia typically feature primitive amenities and varying road conditions. Most sites are situated between 1,200 and 3,500 feet elevation along the western edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The region's camping season runs primarily from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime and 55-65°F at night.
What to do
Motorcycle touring: Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway from Willville Motorcycle Camp, just minutes from the scenic byway. "There are no designated spots... there are great places with shade or in the open, ample grass, and picnic tables aplenty," notes Joe S., highlighting the flexibility for riders.
Kayaking and floating: The James River offers multiple access points for water recreation. "The crystal clear water" at Breeden Bottom Campground provides options for various water activities. According to Lauren B., "The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm."
Disc golf: Camp Success offers recreational options beyond just camping. "There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," writes Wendy G. about this small-town camping area.
What campers like
Private riverside camping: Campers consistently mention the secluded nature of sites. Kate V. describes Shirleys' River Retreat as "a hidden gem" with sites that are "spaced far enough from each other that you can see each other." Mark M. adds that it has an "amazing campsite right on the riverbank" with a "wonderful host."
Group camping areas: The Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 accommodates larger groups with its open layout. David B. notes it has a "large open space with several flat areas for tents" and mentions "there are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road."
Clean facilities: Tent sites with basic amenities receive praise for maintenance. At Dragon's Tooth, Angela D. appreciates the "vault toilets stocked with toilet paper at the trailhead as well as bear proof trashcans." She describes it as "a fine place to park overnight" with a "pretty little creek runs by the gravel lot."
What you should know
Environmental restrictions: Some campsites have adjusted their available areas. At Dragon's Tooth, Juliett M. reports that "car camping is the only option at this time. It appears that the tent camping area is no longer available and is fenced off for environmental protection reasons."
Cell service limitations: Many primitive sites have no connectivity. Jon N. notes about the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Water access: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT, Alex R. advises visitors are "near water (collect water with a filter only)."
Tips for camping with families
Flat terrain options: For easier setup with children, look for level sites. Describing Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground), Nicholas H. notes "sites are huge and level. It's quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
River access safety: When camping with children near water, select sites with gradual entry points. Alison M. mentions Breeden Bottom has "a good, shallow walk-in into the water" making it safer for families and pets.
Rain preparation: Mountain weather can change quickly, so prepare for precipitation even in summer. While most tent sites have natural drainage, low areas can become muddy during storms.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Many forest roads leading to primitive tent sites have rough surfaces. Jon N. cautions about the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Transportation alternatives: RVers often use primitive tent sites as base camps. At Whitt Riverbend Park, John R. notes it's a "cozy little site not too far from the main highway" making it convenient for those traveling between destinations.
Amenities inventory: Bring all essentials as most tent campsites near Roanoke lack facilities. Sue B. observes at Camp Success: "Vault M/F toilet, BYOTP. No hookups and I didn't see a water spigot. Plenty of shade."
