Camping options near Blacksburg span across southwestern Virginia's mountainous terrain at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet. The region's mild climate allows for extended camping seasons with spring temperatures averaging 45-65°F and fall dropping to 40-60°F. Most campgrounds in this area provide ready access to both the New River and Blue Ridge Parkway trail systems, with several options staying open year-round for all-season camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking trails: Claytor Lake State Park features multiple trails accessible from the campground. "I love this park! Plenty of tent and RV sites... Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers. Wood, ice and soda machines available," notes Michelle W. The park's location makes it convenient for accessing both water activities and hiking opportunities.
Kayaking and paddling: Gatewood Park offers excellent water-based recreation on its reservoir. "Small campground way out in the woods right on a reservoir with great fishing kayaking boat rental swimming!! Minimal to no cell phone and Wi Fi. All sights are full hook up and most water front," explains Burkley W. The park provides boat rentals for those who don't bring their own equipment.
Disc golf course: Camp Success provides a free disc golf course alongside its camping facilities. "Beautiful spot on the New River in Giles County, VA located right outside downtown Narrows. There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," shares Wendy G. The course offers a fun alternative activity between hiking and water sports.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA maintains excellent bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms were amazing. Pulled my review from a 3+ to a 5! Private baths like at home. Toilet, sink and shower all to yourself and CLEAN!" reports Peter H. These private bathroom setups make the camping experience more comfortable, especially for families.
Natural setting: Salthouse Branch Campground provides waterfront access and natural surroundings. "Level site with good drainage made this a nice spot for a 3-day rest during a time of limited personal mobility. Sighting a male pileated woodpecker was a highlight," writes Greg S. The campground's location on Philpott Reservoir creates opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the quiet found at local campgrounds. "This is a quite place way back in the mountains of Southern Virginia," says a reviewer about Salthouse Branch. The remote locations of several campgrounds in the Blacksburg area contribute to their peaceful nature, with minimal city noise.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most glamping options near Blacksburg have restricted cell service. "Minimal to no cell phone and Wi Fi," notes a Gatewood Park reviewer. This disconnection can be either a welcome break or challenging depending on your needs.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (May-October), most campgrounds fill quickly. "The water front sites are difficult to book, but off water sites are more readily available," explains Stephen about Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance," warns a reviewer about Salthouse Branch. Planning your route carefully and using appropriate vehicles is important.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Wytheville KOA offers family-friendly water features. "This campground is terrific! all the facilities are extremely well kept and clean... our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" shares Lisa T. The campground provides organized activities specifically designed for children.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include playground facilities. "We love visiting the Salthouse Branch! The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground!" reports Tamara B. These play areas give children additional recreation options beyond hiking and water activities.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide learning experiences. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite," explains Angela J. about Claytor Lake State Park. These ranger-led activities often focus on local ecology and history.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Fort Chiswell RV Park offers convenient overnight stops. "Located not too far from I-81, easy to get to. This CG does a lot of overnight business, there is a parade of campers arriving from mid afternoon to after dark. Sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient," explains Michael H. The campground's proximity to the interstate makes it popular with travelers.
Hookup availability: Many Blacksburg area campgrounds provide full hookup options. "Very nice and quiet place to spend a few days. Sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did mange our 41' in there... they do have some lrg back in FHU sites if you need but not many," notes Lawrence P. about Salthouse Branch. Larger RVs should call ahead to confirm site dimensions.
Off-season considerations: Some glamping opportunities in Blacksburg remain open year-round. "Did some Jeep camping here in November. Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Hiking trails all accessible from the camp areas. My spot had electric and water hook ups," shares Kristina D. about Claytor Lake State Park. Off-season camping often means fewer crowds and easier reservations.