Cleveland, Virginia sits at the base of Clinch Mountain where heavily forested terrain rises to elevations of 2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with temperatures ranging from 30-50°F in winter to 70-90°F in summer months. Many campgrounds near Cleveland maintain restricted operating schedules from April through October due to challenging mountain road conditions during winter.
What to do
Virginia Creeper Trail access: The 34-mile former railroad trail attracts cyclists of all skill levels. Laurel Creek RV Park provides direct access to the 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 one camper.
River activities: The North Fork Holston River offers fishing and wading opportunities. Riverside Campground sits directly on the water. "On the north fork of the Holsten River, this quiet campground provides the perfect spot for a family trip," reports a visitor. Another camper mentions, "The river is perfect! It's not too deep so the kids can play in it."
ATV trail access: Nearby trail systems accommodate off-road vehicles with maps available at some campgrounds. One visitor to Leeman Field Park notes, "Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also."
What campers like
Small town proximity: Many RV sites near Cleveland, Virginia offer walking distance to small mountain towns with services. A visitor to Laurel Creek RV Park shares, "Walk to town for restaurants and bike/outdoor shops and a convenience store. Grocery store is a little further away."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain setting provides abundant wildlife watching opportunities. "Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel" describes one camper about their stay.
Greenway access: Paved walking paths connect several campgrounds to nearby communities. "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," notes one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses receive positive mentions despite limited amenities. Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground stands out according to one reviewer: "The bath house was clean and decorated very nice. Looks like it has been freshly painted."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most Cleveland area RV campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Rocky Top Campground & RV Park remains open year-round, but many others close between October and April.
Mountain driving challenges: Access roads to campsites often require experience navigating steep grades. "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 your not a seasoned driver," warns a Rocky Top camper.
Limited cell coverage: Many Cleveland area campgrounds have spotty mobile service. Some campgrounds offer WiFi, though typically restricted to office areas, with Lakeview RV Resort noted for having "Wifi works well" according to a recent camper.
Cash preferred: Some smaller campgrounds require cash or check payment. As one visitor mentioned about a local campground, "Cash or check only. No credit cards even accepted."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer swimming pools for children. "There is a small pool, but very clean and nice," notes a camper about Riverside Campground, adding, "Summer at this campground had plenty of water activities fun for all ages."
Holiday activities: Several RV parks host special events during peak seasons. "If you go on any holiday, there are usually holiday related activities for the whole family. October was great for costumes, trick or treating, fall activities and parties!" reports a camper.
Wildlife awareness: Parents should monitor children around local waterways and wooded areas. One recent visitor warns, "The place is crawling with Venomous Copperheads. Do not recommend tent camping here."
Playground access: Backwoods Camping & RV Park and other family-friendly sites offer play equipment. Nearby Leeman Field features "multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees), tennis courts, and disc golf course."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV campgrounds near Cleveland require leveling equipment. "Most of the RV spots are not very level but there are a few good ones," notes one camper.
Hookup variations: While most RV sites provide water and electric, sewer connections vary by campground. Butler TN RV campsite offers "full hookups, including 30&50 amp electric, sewer, water and wireless WiFi. Easy paved road access with gravel driveway," according to a visitor.
Speed restrictions: Many campgrounds enforce strict speed limits for safety. "The 5 mph speed limit is strictly enforced!" reports a camper about Riverside Campground.
Noise considerations: Construction and maintenance can impact stays at some RV parks. "We stayed a week and all days during the week - Monday through Friday, there was construction literally right beside our RV. Constant leaf blowing," shares one Rocky Top camper.
