Tent camping options near Blacksburg, Virginia span across the Appalachian foothills at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Many campgrounds sit along the New River watershed, where campsites often require walk-in access from parking areas.
What to do
Kayak the New River: At Millrace Campground — New River Trail State Park, water activities dominate recreational options. A camper advises: "If you're down for a bit of kayaking, get out on the water early, otherwise, you'll be fighting harder currents later in the day."
Hike to scenic overlooks: The best tent camping near Blacksburg, Virginia provides direct trail access. One camper at Dragon's Tooth shared: "dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail... once you get to the top of the rock the view is incredible there are a few maybe four or five good camping spots."
Explore historic sites: Within walking distance of campsites, visitors can discover local history. At Millrace Campground, "you can explore the area which includes stables, a wildlife center, visitor center with local artisan goods, an abandoned hotel/grounds, an old train car, and much more."
What campers like
Waterfront sleeping spots: Many tent sites offer riverside locations for natural soundscapes. A camper at Millrace noted: "Really cool campground located right on the New River... The river sounds amazing at night."
Clean facilities despite primitive settings: Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT maintains basic but functional amenities. A visitor mentioned: "You get a lean-to and tent sites. Near water (collect water with a filter only). I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies provide stellar viewing at tent camping locations near Blacksburg. At Indian Mills Camping Area, "you'll sleep underneath a clear sky, with the most brilliant stars, silver shining moon and the soft lull of trees swaying in the wind that will rock you to sleep each night."
What you should know
Pack-in requirements: Most tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Millrace Campground: "You have to walk everything into the campground from the parking area, but it's not a long walk so you can still bring all of your 'car camping' luxuries."
Limited water access: Filtering is necessary at many locations. At Catawba Mountain Shelter, campers must "collect water with a filter only."
Changing bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds around Blacksburg. At Old Mill Campground, one camper reported: "The bathhouse is open air over half of it. Had no soap or toilet paper and the toilets were all plugged up."
Payment systems: Some campgrounds use honor systems rather than formal registration. At Indian Mills, "this place is managed by the local Sheriff's office, so there's a drop box upon entry where you just tuck a $20 bill in an envelope, drop it in the box and off you go."
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites with minimal distance: For family tent camping near Blacksburg, select locations with shorter carries. At Whitt Riverbend Park, families appreciate that it's a "cozy little site not too far from the main highway" with "primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!"
Look for campgrounds with swimming options: During summer months, water access helps with heat. At Old Mill Campground, families report: "We enjoyed hiking the trails, swimming in the lake and sitting by our campfire."
Scout nearby amenities: When tent camping with kids, know where supplies are available. Indian Mills campers suggest: "If you get tired of eating fireside, eat at Shawnitta's Diner just due south of Red Sulphur Springs – where they have all the typical diner food you would expect."
Tips from RVers
Consider motorcycle-friendly tent sites: For smaller rigs or motorcycle camping, Willville Motorcycle Camp offers unique amenities. A visitor noted: "Clean showers, big fire pit, free coffee in the morning. Several restaurants nearby."
Tent platforms provide better sleeping: At motorcycle-friendly campgrounds, tent pads offer more comfort. A Willville camper shared: "Very welcoming, quiet and peaceful. Few small town stores about a mile away including gas. Nice bath houses with shower."
Look for electrical access points: Even tent campers sometimes need charging options. Willville provides "a good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot (you can bring an extension cord if you need it for a CPAP or such)."
