The Blue Ridge Parkway camping region spans elevations between 650-3,500 feet, creating distinct temperature differences throughout the area. Summer temperatures often remain 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations than surrounding valleys. Weather patterns can shift rapidly along the ridgeline, with mountain-specific microclimates affecting campground conditions.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers excellent access to waterfall hiking trails. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," notes Emily D. The park features multiple waterfalls accessible via trail systems of varying difficulty.
Mountain biking: COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground provides direct access to bike trails. "Bike riding in the park is fun and there are plenty of areas to bike," says Martha S. The campground connects to several miles of shoreline trails suitable for intermediate riders.
Fishing opportunities: Twin Rivers Family Campground sits at the junction of two rivers with good fishing access. "The river is awesome and the staff is extremely friendly," mentions Glen W. Anglers can catch smallmouth bass and trout depending on the season and water conditions.
Wildlife viewing: Grayson Highlands State Park is known for its wild ponies. "Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds. Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," advises Danielle H. Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Creek access: Twin Rivers Family Campground provides direct water access. "Our site was right on the river. There are some permanent sites, tent sites, RV sites, and several primitive sites," shares Kevin A. Many sites feature fire rings positioned close to the water for ambient sound while camping.
Mountain top locations: Blue Bear Mountain Camp sits at high elevation, providing cooler summer temperatures. "The elevation is high so it's cooler than the surrounding areas. The constant light breeze and lack of mosquitoes is a treat," notes Raven B. The campground maintains temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby towns during summer months.
Clean facilities: Hickory Ridge Campground at Grayson Highlands maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms are clean with flush toilets and showers," reports Jean C. The campground undergoes daily maintenance with frequent cleaning schedules.
Primitive backcountry options: Basin Cove Campground offers truly remote sites. "The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way. There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you," advises Julie L. This campground requires a one-mile hike to access and maintains strict pack-in, pack-out policies.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most parkway campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "The Doughton Park campground off of the Blue Ridge Parkway is a great place to spend the night without if you are driving along the Parkway and don't want to venture too far off course," explains Kelsey M., noting it would "close for the season on November 4."
Water access limitations: Sandy Creek Family Campground has limited water hookups. "Had a nice site on a little creek. Owner was nice," shares Brian B., but warns about facilities: "the shower house was the worst of any campground I have ever seen."
Permit requirements: Several backcountry sites require advance permits. Basin Cove requires that "you have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit," according to Julie L.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved roads. Blue Bear Mountain Camp has "narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there," says Kristen J. Many access roads remain unmaintained during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Raccoon Holler Campground offers extensive recreation facilities. "Family-friendly campground with plenty of fun activities for kids. Playground, fishing pond, disc golf, recreation and game area, and ice cream trailer," mentions Joy B. The playground includes equipment suitable for children of various ages.
Stream play areas: Sandy Creek Family Campground features safe water play zones. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," notes Ann H. Water depths remain shallow enough for wading during normal conditions.
Educational opportunities: Hickory Ridge Campground provides nature programs. "Plenty to keep kids and adults alike entertained, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area," explains Jean C. Programs typically run daily during peak summer months.
Campsite spacing: Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers well-separated sites. "The campsites are very spaced out," reports Kristen J. This creates natural boundaries between sites for families concerned about privacy.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Stone Mountain State Park offers convenient dump facilities. "I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings," notes David B., adding "I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups."
Site selection guidance: New River State Park has site-specific considerations. "Some sites have patio area on 'wrong' (street) side instead of curb side, so take a look at Google satellite map when booking. Sites 3, 7, 10 are among the best," advises Megan M. The campground maintains detailed site maps with dimensions for accurate selection.
Tank filling procedures: Blue Bear Mountain requires planning for water needs. "They do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R. The water filling station can accommodate one RV at a time.
