Recreational vehicle campgrounds near Big Stone Gap, Virginia offer camping options in the heart of Appalachian coal country. The area sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet in southwestern Virginia's Powell River Valley, creating a four-season camping destination with mild summers and occasionally snowy winters. Sites throughout the region often feature mature hardwood forests, providing natural shade during summer camping months.
What to do
Walking trails: The Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground provides access to local walking paths. "Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek. Also the town is the home of writer Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of Big Stone Gap!" notes Twila B.
Swimming: Kids can cool off at Leeman Field Park during summer months. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees.), tennis courts, and disc golf course," writes Julie.
Coal mining history: Learn about the region's industrial past at Portal 31 RV Park. "This small park is located across the street from an exhibition coal mine, portal 31. It is in the former train depots former switch yard... If you want to see the history of coal production in southeast Kentucky, this is the place," shares Grant M.
ATV trails: Access off-road vehicle paths from several local campgrounds. "Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also," notes a Leeman Field Park reviewer about the nearby trail system.
What campers like
Easy access walking paths: Campers appreciate connections to local walking trails. "The greenway runs just over the river and takes you into Big Stone Gap where you will find local restaurants and shops, as well as every city's fast food restaurants," explains Charlene at Jessie Lea RV Park.
Clean facilities: Natural Tunnel State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses. "Campground and park are clean, well maintained and up to date. Canoed Clinch River, caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel," reports Rob J.
Chairlift views: The chairlift at Natural Tunnel State Park provides unique sightseeing. "A hiking trail ran behind the cabins, past the campground (also new) to the tunnel. It is a great hike and even better when you use the ski lift going up," shares Kim A.
River access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. "We needed a spot to stay at the last minute and called the owner. We had two Jeeps with roof top tents, and while this is an RV Park, he has a few seasonal sites near the creek open. If the water is high, the sites aren't available," explains Twila B. about creek-side camping at Jessie Lea.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Water levels affect some camping spots. At Jessie Lea RV Park, creek-side tent sites have limited availability: "If the water is high, the sites aren't available."
Mountain driving conditions: Some RV parks require careful navigation. "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver," warns Debbie O. about Rocky Top Campground & RV Park.
Primitive camping considerations: For those seeking basic sites, plan accordingly. "Booked a 3 night stay over the weekend and had the primitive camping area to ourselves. 5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box... Water spigot at top, a little walk, uphill, for water," shares Sarah C. about Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping.
Train activity: The Natural Tunnel area includes active rail lines. "It's an active railroad and closed otherwise," notes Julie about the tunnel access, which has limited walking opportunities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for inclusive activities: Several campgrounds offer family-oriented amenities. "Great park! It's got all you need from camping to trails to swimming to even learning history about the area and the park itself! Great for the family!" writes Jaren E. about Natural Tunnel State Park.
Check for playground access: Multiple camping areas include play spaces. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool, tennis courts, and disc golf course. There is a gorgeous walking and biking trail beginning at Leeman Field that winds along the river leading to a local grocery store and restaurants," notes Julie.
Consider educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences alongside recreation. "This place is absolutely breathtaking. A must go... There are so many activities for everyone of all ages. Pool, picnicking, canoeing, hiking, fishing... There's a museum, several gift shops, camp store, visitor centers... Many educational activities," explains Teresa K. about Natural Tunnel State Park.
Prepare for temperature variations: Summer heat can be challenging. "The temperatures were in the lower 90s outside, and once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven. The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside," warns Myron C. about yurt camping at Natural Tunnel State Park.
Tips from RVers
Choose level sites: Look for RV parks with well-prepared parking areas. "Site was gravel and completely level. A lot of full time campers here but that doesn't bother us at all," notes Peter K. about Around Pond RV Park.
Check electric service capacity: Verify amperage meets your needs. "15-20-30-50 amp" options are available at Around Pond RV Park according to N.I.
Look for pull-through accessibility: Some parks offer easier parking options. "Very beautiful place!! Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground," describes Lauren J. about Jessie Lea RV Park, which offers several pull-through sites.
Confirm campground amenities: Facilities vary significantly between parks. "We stayed in Lovers Leap Loop, site specific reservable. All these sites are roomy, but often back or butt to the next site. New super clean showerhouse with plenty of pressure and hot water. We had great cell and hot spot service (ATT & Verizon)," shares Gary P. about Natural Tunnel State Park.
