Dog-Friendly Camping near Blacksburg, VA

Campgrounds near Blacksburg, Virginia sit amid the western Blue Ridge Mountains where elevations range from 2,000-3,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with moderate summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. Most campgrounds in this region cluster around the New River, which provides clear, shallow water access but often features rocky riverbeds that require careful navigation.

What to do

Disc golf course access: Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue offers a 9-hole disc golf course on its grounds. As one camper noted, "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!"

Hike to waterfalls: Camp Alta Mons features trails leading to Stiles Falls. According to a reviewer, "Great hiking trails to a beautiful waterfall. The chortle of raccoon was heard but none spotted, as the cackle and call of elusive turkey."

Fish in the New River: New River Junction Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. One visitor explained: "Bring your fishing pole for some great catch and release fishing, or rent a inner tub or canoe and float down River to a shuttle bus that brings you back to the campgrounds."

Rock climbing challenges: Dragon's Tooth provides challenging rock climbing and spectacular views. A camper described the experience: "To get to the top of dragons tooth becomes a strenuous hike once you get to the big rock...there's a lot of painted white arrows show you where to step up and continue on the trail."

What campers like

River views and access: Campers appreciate riverside camping at Eggleston Springs Campground. One visitor shared, "The campsite was great! Right up against the river with beautiful mountain back drop. Most camp sites have electricity and a fire pit."

Privacy in wooded sites: Claytor Lake State Park Campground offers secluded spots for a more private experience. A camper noted, "It felt somewhat private because of the trees and design of the site. Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun."

Group camping options: Caldwell Fields Group Campground accommodates larger gatherings. As one visitor reported, "Stayed here for two nights with 13 vehicles and 16 people to visit Potts Mountain Jeep trail. nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the campsite."

Hot showers: Despite being in rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain clean bath facilities. A Claytor Lake camper mentioned, "Clean, convenient sites off highway 81. Not much privacy between sites because they're quite close together but there are trees. Sites 11 and 12 have more privacy space."

What you should know

Water availability issues: White Rocks Campground has ongoing water system problems. A camper warned, "Rundoing, overgrown and no water for 4+ years. I've contacted forestry personnel on several occasions, seems no interest in repairs. Bath buildings are closed and in a sad state."

Train noise concerns: New River Junction Campground is located near active train tracks. One camper advised, "There we're about 8 trains that passed through on our first night which led us to not sleeping well! So bring ear plugs!"

Weather preparedness: Be ready for changing mountain conditions. One Claytor Lake visitor recommended, "Stayed for three nights in October. We paddled around the lake on Sunday; there are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance."

Seasonal crowds: During summer months, popular water access points get crowded. A camper observed, "We were lured to Chantilly Farm by its impressive online presence and weren't disappointed. The sites on the hilltop offer stunning views, particularly at sunset."

Tips for camping with families

Lake activities for kids: Sportsman Campground provides easy access to water fun. As one camper noted, "Yep this campground is on the New River. Great but directly overhead is I-81 overpass so take that into consideration. Bath house is very close and clean."

Park ranger programs: Educational opportunities exist at several campgrounds. One Claytor Lake camper shared, "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite."

Rocky river navigation: Rivers in the area typically have rocky bottoms. A visitor warned, "The water ranges in depth, but nothing deeper than waste deep really. It's rocky and slippery so it's dangerous and not very family friendly. Especially for young children and older people."

Limited playground facilities: Most campgrounds lack dedicated play structures. A camper mentioned, "Nothing really available for younger kids to play on. No playgrounds or anything other than a few ride around toys and a basketball hoop."

Tips from RVers

Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from common areas for more seclusion. A Claytor Lake camper advised, "Not much privacy between sites because they're quite close together but there are trees. Sites 11 and 12 have more privacy space."

Access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating difficult terrain. One camper at Boley Field noted, "I'd recommend a vehicle with decent ground clearance since you have to cross a creek and some medium sized rocks to get there, but it's totally worth it."

Hookup availability: Verify hookup types before booking. A Sportsman Campground visitor shared, "I have a 35' BP and it was difficult getting it in. But, it sits right on the river with a gas station and store onsite. No sewer hook up but a dump-station was on site. Good for an overnight."

Seasonal considerations: Water systems at some campgrounds may be shut off during colder months. A White Rocks camper warned, "If you go take water and something to cut the overgrowth. Dump station closed/water issue."