RV campgrounds near Ceres, Virginia offer quiet escapes within the Blue Ridge Mountain region at elevations between 2,200 and 3,500 feet. Sites range from creek-side retreats to small parks with mountain views, with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Winter camping requires planning as some roads become difficult to navigate when snow or ice accumulates.
What to do
Biking on the New River Trail: Located one block from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, the trail extends nearly 57 miles. "We rode the first 6 miles (and back) of the New River Trail to the train trestle and through the tunnel, just beyond. Easy ride with 2% grade," reports one visitor.
Fishing access: Several RV parks offer direct water access. "Catch the head of the 58 mile trail just 2 blocks from the RV site. Kayak and bike drop offs are available at the gas station," notes a camper about recreation options near Fries.
Local music culture: Experience Appalachian heritage through scheduled performances. "The town is on the 'Crooked River Music Trail' and music is an important part of the their heritage. Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!!" recommends a visitor to Fries.
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Many campers appreciate sites near streams or rivers. At Peak Creek RV Campground, "Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream," while another camper noted, "Creek is like a river, cool getaway during the day."
Local dining options: Regional food establishments receive positive mentions. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, guests appreciate nearby dining: "And great BBQ a mile away." Another camper suggested: "go to Creek Bottom Brewery in Galax (less than 30 min). Great food and beer options. Pickle fries are amazing!"
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Even though we were in the back, the wifi worked great the entire time," mentioned one camper at Fries, adding value to the pleasant climate with connectivity benefits.
What you should know
Limited services in small towns: Some RV parks are in very small communities with minimal amenities. "Fries is a very small town. I believe that the last census taken showed it had about 400 year round residents!" notes one camper, while another mentioned "Supplies slim in Fries area. CVS/Dollar General."
Varied water pressure: Water service quality differs between parks. At Laurel Creek RV Park, a visitor noted: "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."
Payment policies vary: Cash may be required at some locations. "One thing to note is that they don't accept credit cards," mentioned a camper staying at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation opportunities: Many parks feature creek or river access for cooling off. At Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, one camper noted, "Noticed multiple people utilizing the fishing pond and there was a cornhole tournament going on at the other side of the park."
Recreation amenities: Look for campgrounds with additional activities. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RV's/campers," a visitor commented about Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Playground facilities: Some parks have recently upgraded play areas. A visitor to Brushcreek Falls mentioned, "We had plenty of room to park our RV and there was a very nice new swingset nearby."
Tips from RVers
Advanced planning for fall season: The Blue Ridge area becomes extremely popular during peak foliage. At Doughton Park Campground, a camper advised: "Best sites: 9 very best, 4, 8, 7. Next best: 5, 21, 19. Nice but picnic area is not quite as private: 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 11, 10."
Road navigation concerns: Mountain access requires careful driving. At River Country Campground & RV Park, a visitor cautioned, "So if you call to make your reservation - be patient if you want to have a friendly interaction!"
Site selection for larger rigs: Specific campsites accommodate various RV sizes. "They can handle the smaller TT to the largest monster-sized motor homes," noted a Fries New RiverTrail RV Park visitor, while Fort Chiswell reviews mention "Each site has two pads... However, even though there are two, they are not long, so bringing a large 5th wheel might be problematic."
