Blue Ridge Parkway campsites sit between 2,000-3,500 feet elevation, creating cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lowlands. Fall camping requires advance planning as sites fill quickly when autumn colors peak. Winter closures affect many campgrounds seasonally, with facilities typically operating from April through October.
What to do
Creekside relaxation: At Peak Creek RV Campground, visitors can enjoy wading in the stream. "Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream," notes Lynn S. The creek "is like a river, cool getaway during the day" according to another camper.
Trail access: Campers at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park can reach the 57-mile New River Trail just blocks from their site. "The start of the trail is less than 1/2 mile from the campground and travels along the New River for miles," explains one reviewer. Another mentions you can "ride bikes from your campsite to the trail."
Wine tasting: Overnight guests at RV parks near Blue Ridge Parkway can visit local vineyards. "You can wine taste while you are visiting" at Roaring River Vineyards RV Campground, according to Kristi D. The area around Elkin is wine country with "many vineyards in the area" accessible for day trips.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers appreciate riverside locations throughout the region. "We loved camping here and can't wait to come back. The swimming pond was awesome with a spot for the dogs," mentions Donna B. about her stay at Riverwalk RV Park.
Convenient town access: Many rv sites near Blue Ridge Parkway offer proximity to small towns. "Jonesvillle and Elkin both have antique stores and Elkin is a nice town to stroll through with shops and a local brewery," notes Ricky J. Another reviewer suggests visiting "Creek Bottom Brewery in Galax (less than 30 min). Great food and beer options."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention the cleanliness at campgrounds along the parkway. "Impeccable gravel sites, bathroom and common areas," writes Nancy C. about Fries New RiverTrail RV Park. At Linville Falls Campground, Phil W. states they are "the cleanest bathrooms we've ever seen."
What you should know
Extended stays available: Some locations accommodate longer visits. At Doughton Park Campground, "A small group of folks, older, play music together on a regular basis. Bring your instrument and join them," suggests a camper who enjoyed the community atmosphere.
Mountain driving considerations: Access to certain RV sites near Blue Ridge Parkway requires navigating mountain terrain. "The roads were windy and a tad narrow but definitely do-able as long as you took your time," mentions Jennifer K. about reaching Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Weather affects operations at higher elevations. "It would close for the season on November 4 so we were good!" reports one camper about an autumn visit. Most campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway operate from April or May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lake Myers RV Resort provides family entertainment options. "Many activities offered for family with 2 large pools," notes Gennie C. Another visitor mentions it's a "fun activities, kid friendly" environment.
Age-appropriate planning: Consider the age of children when selecting a campground. "If it was just adults going, or even older children maybe 7 and up it would be a great location," advises Keanu G., who found limited activities for children under 5 at Lake Myers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Riverwalk RV Park, one visitor noted, "Deer came right up to our camper and my husband saw them while walking our dog." Children often enjoy these natural encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Laurel Creek RV Park, the location varies by site. "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views," notes Stephanie W. At Doughton Park Campground, Roger W. advises, "Best sites: 9 very best, 4, 8, 7. Next best: 5, 21, 19."
Hookup variations: Electric options differ between campgrounds. Fries New RiverTrail RV Park offers "WiFi and cable are great in the entire park," while other locations may have only partial hookups. Some sites have 50-amp service while others offer 30-amp connections.
Pad dimensions: RV owners should verify site specifications before arrival. At Doughton Park Campground, sites feature "asphalt pads" with "an extra pad for tow vehicles." One camper notes sites at Riverwalk RV Park were "very roomy, many pull through sites" that could accommodate larger rigs.
