Campers visiting RV parks near St. Paul, Virginia navigate mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet throughout the region. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F while summer months average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Local camping areas connect to regional trail systems including the Virginia Creeper Trail and the Powell River Trail network.
What to do
Trail access: Laurel Creek RV Park in Damascus provides direct access to the Virginia Creeper Trail. "This campground is small and no bathrooms, but it is directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town," notes camper Penny M.
Historical sites: Portal 31 RV Park puts campers within walking distance of an exhibition coal mine. "If you want to see the history of coal production in southeast Kentucky, this is the place. If you (like me) are a highpointer, this site is like 4 miles from KY highpoint, Black Mountain," writes Grant M.
Town amenities: Leeman Field Park in Pennington Gap connects to downtown via a walking path. "There is a gorgeous walking and biking trail beginning at Leeman Field that winds along the river leading to a local grocery store and restaurants. Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also," according to Julie.
What campers like
River proximity: Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground offers riverside sites with natural ambiance. "Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground. About half a mile from a nice little gas station and a KFC as well, which is nice for ice trips or chicken runs," reports Lauren J.
Community spaces: Many St. Paul area RV parks maintain community pavilions. "At the entrance, there is an amazing covered shelter with picnic tables, rocking chairs and grills. The park is well manicured with flowers and trees," notes camper Charlene about Jessie Lea.
Scenic views: Around Pond RV Park maintains a stocked fishing pond with waterfront sites. "Very open area with a lot of RVs and a really nice fishing lake. Well maintained and manicured," writes reviewer N I.
What you should know
Site spacing: Campgrounds around St. Paul vary in site density. At Lakeview RV Resort, "Campground sites are a bit close together but it is well maintained and has friendly staff. Wifi works well. Nice dog park," according to Doreen M.
Elevation challenges: Road access requires careful planning at some locations. At Rocky Top Campground, "The camp on the west side is dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if you're not a seasoned driver," warns Debbie O.
Seasonal availability: While many RV parks operate year-round, availability tightens during peak seasons. "We stayed 5 nights through Christmas and it was absolutely wonderful. Owner are very nice and helpful. Facilities were pristine," notes Travis R. about winter camping at Jessie Lea.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds include additional recreation options. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees), tennis courts, and disc golf course," mentions Julie.
Riverside activities: Sites near water offer natural entertainment options. "Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek. Also the town is the home of writer Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of Big Stone Gap!" shares Twila B. about Jessie Lea RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Look for parks with nature observation areas. "Cute pond with swans and ducks. Lots of spots available but they're not particularly level and not private. Nice owner," notes Ben P. about Around Pond RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many RV parks around St. Paul offer varied terrain requiring stabilization. "Site was gravel and completely level. A lot of full time campers here but that doesn't bother us at all," reports Peter K. about Around Pond RV Park.
Hookup availability: The region offers full-service options despite mountainous terrain. "This single RV campsite has full hookups, including 30&50 amp electric, sewer, water and wireless WiFi. Easy paved road access with gravel driveway," notes Ed H. at Butler TN RV Campsite.
Construction awareness: Check for ongoing improvements that might affect your stay. "We stayed a week and all days during the week - Monday through Friday, there was construction literally right beside our RV. Constant leaf blowing," warns Christine S. about Rocky Top Campground.
