Glamping close to Christiansburg, Virginia offers a distinctive Blue Ridge Mountain experience, with elevations ranging from 1,700-2,800 feet creating diverse microclimates across campgrounds. The region's unique geology formed the staurolite crystals known as fairy stones, which can be found at designated hunting areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with cooler nights, even during peak season.
What to do
Outdoor recreation beyond swimming: At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy both water and land activities. "We paddled around the lake on Sunday; there are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance," notes one camper who visited in October.
Disc golf courses: Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground offers a 9-hole disc golf course as part of their recreation options. "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!" according to a recent visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Gatewood Park provides exceptional reservoir fishing minutes from Christiansburg. "Good fishing. We have been there numerous time and is always a good stay," reports a regular visitor. The park rents boats and offers multiple access points for anglers.
Wildlife viewing: The rolling hills create perfect habitats for bird watching and wildlife spotting. "Sighting a male pileated woodpecker was a highlight," noted one Salthouse Branch camper who enjoyed the natural surroundings during their stay.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some area campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At Salthouse Branch Campground, "Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat," explains a tent camper who appreciated the terraced design.
Camp hosts: Attentive staff enhances the experience at several properties. At Wytheville KOA, "Fast curbside check-in took us straight to our site. We only stayed overnight left in the morning but it was nice and quiet easy on and off of 81," explains a traveler who appreciated the efficient service.
Minimal connectivity: For those seeking a digital detox, some locations offer limited cell coverage. At Gatewood Park, visitors enjoy "Minimal to no cell phone and Wi Fi. All sights are full hook up and most water front. About 35 sights," making it perfect for disconnecting.
Motorcycle-specific camping: Willville Motorcycle Camp caters exclusively to motorcycle travelers. "Clean showers, big fire pit, free coffee in the morning. Several restaurants nearby," notes a rider who frequents the specialty campground.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds modify operations based on time of year. "We did some Jeep camping here in November. Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Hiking trails all accessible from the camp areas," reports a Claytor Lake camper about off-season experiences.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds operate on a mixed system. According to a visitor, "About a year ago, this park became half first come first served and half reservation only. Each site has a yellow or red tag on it - the yellow tags have to be reserved by site number. The red tags can be walk up sites."
Accessibility considerations: Not all facilities are equally accessible. At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, "Accessibility to both beach swimming areas is risky for those needing to use a cane or crutches," noted a camper with mobility limitations.
Alcohol policies: Regulations vary by property. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," warned a Salthouse Branch visitor about their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities. At Fairy Stone State Park, "We took to Fairystone for the maiden voyage of our pop up camper July 4th weekend. The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds have dedicated children's facilities. Fort Chiswell RV Park includes a "heated pool, allowing it to be open much longer than many campgrounds in the area. There is a large pet area and also playground and several hiking areas."
Entertainment options: Some locations provide special activities. "This campground is terrific! Our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" shared a Wytheville KOA visitor.
Multi-generational camping: Diverse accommodations at several glamping sites near Christiansburg serve different comfort needs. "We stayed in a Yurt. It has no electricity or water but the bath house was close. The yurt has a double bed, a twin trundle, a couch and some chairs, and a table and chairs," explained a family who visited Fairy Stone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Finding the right spot matters. "This campground is good for a one night stopover and we would return for it for that purpose. Clean, convenient sites off highway 81. Not much privacy between sites because they're quite close together but there are trees. Sites 11 and 12 have more privacy space," advised a Claytor Lake State Park RVer.
Navigational challenges: Some properties have tricky access roads. "We stayed in site #3 which was near a group site - so be mindful of this! The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance," warned a Salthouse Branch visitor.
Hookup specifics: Utility access varies widely. "We stayed in a full hookup site 8 on top of a hill overlooking other areas of the park. They have sites for everyone and every type of camping!" noted a Chantilly Farm camper, highlighting the diverse camping options available when glamping near Christiansburg.
