Camping near Blue Ridge Parkway offers varied elevation options from 1,500 to 6,000 feet, creating natural temperature zones that can be 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations during summer months. Most campgrounds along the parkway operate seasonally from April through October, with water systems winterized during colder months. Many sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with differing amenity levels.
What to do
Riverside tubing excursions: Enjoy floating on the New River at New River Canoe and Campground, with tubing trips that end right at your campsite. "Best canoeing and kayaking on new river, class 2 & 3 rapids on the 10 mile float, worth the $20 shuttle to take you up river to float right back to camp ground," notes Allen F. about New River Canoe and Campground.
Visit wild ponies: Hike to see wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park. "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. about her experience at Hickory Ridge Campground.
Fish in stocked ponds: Several campgrounds maintain fishing areas for guests. "We caught a trout in the pond right away," reports Kristen J. about the fishing opportunities at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation campsites provide natural air conditioning during summer months. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," mentions Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp, where summer temperatures typically range from 70-80°F even in July.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers note the well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse is nice and includes showers and drinking water," reports Raven B. "The constant light breeze and lack of mosquitoes is a treat."
Yurt camping options: Several locations offer yurt accommodations for those seeking shelter with minimal setup. "We stayed in the camping cabins located on the hill behind the store. It was so quiet & offered a beautiful view of the river from the picnic table," notes Julie L. about her stay at Riverside Canoe and Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Check operating schedules before planning trips. "Unfortunately we were unable to camp here. According to park ranger said this campground is closed for one year or longer," reports Anthony B. about Warrior Creek Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many areas have limited or no connectivity. "There is no cell phone service," Carissa D. mentions about Grindstone Recreation Area. "If you want to escape it all, this campground is for you!"
Vehicle access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there," notes Kristen J.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "The campsites are very spaced out," says Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp, while Tony W. cautions about another location: "Sites are on top of each other and there is so much traffic in and out on a one lane road."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer designated play areas. "There are a few t-shirts for sale at the office, as well," mentions Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. "This is a great place with great people!"
Consider walk-in camping with kids: Some parks provide equipment to help transport gear. "They do have wagons/Wheel barrels to help haul your supplies to your tent," notes Kerrie N. about New River State Park. "The bathrooms and showers were well kept and clean. The hikes around the campgrounds were great."
Check for swimming options: Not all water access points permit swimming. "The weather is so much cooler in the summer there (70-80 in July!), it's just a wonderful, down to earth place to be," shares Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup limitations: Many campgrounds require filling tanks rather than offering direct hookups. "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. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Check site specifications: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup configurations. "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. about New River State Park.
Consider dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations on-site. "Nice looking camp in a beautiful area. Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," reports Mike A. about New River State Park.
