Speedwell sits in the Blue Ridge Highlands region of southwest Virginia, with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 3,400 feet. The area experiences cool summers with average July temperatures around 70-75°F and cold winters. Camping options near Speedwell include both riverside sites along the New River and mountain locations with varying degrees of accessibility depending on RV size and road conditions.
What to do
Trail access and biking: The New River Trail is accessible from several RV sites near Speedwell, Virginia. At Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, "You can ride bikes from your campsite to the trail. The trail is almost 57 miles in length and we rode 15 miles out and 15 back to campsite," explains one camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Live music events: Local music is an important part of the regional culture. "Fries is a very small town. I believe that the last census taken showed it had about 400 year round residents! But, 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.
Kayaking and river activities: The Yadkin River offers water recreation opportunities for campers. "In the summer if you are into kayaking there is a local kayak outdoor adventure place five minutes down the road," notes a reviewer from Riverwalk RV Park. Kayak drop-offs are available at some locations, with rental services found near multiple campgrounds.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Creekside and riverside sites are popular with campers in this region. At Laurel Creek RV Park, "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views. I'm under a weeping willow. Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel," shares a recent visitor who enjoyed the natural setting.
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. At Doughton Park Campground, "Site #9, our site, is one of the best sites we have had in almost 4 years of travel. The regulars call this site the 'honeymoon site', because of the heart shaped large rocks which create a lower terraced picnic area," reports one camper who found exceptional privacy.
Walking paths: Many RV parks near Speedwell feature walking trails. "We stayed in the back along the green belt trail that runs beside the campground and the Yadkin River. Great trail to go for a jog take your dog for a walk or just to take a stroll along the River," explains a camper who appreciated the convenient recreation options.
What you should know
Cell service and WiFi quality: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "The wifi worked great the entire time. Even though we were in the back, the wifi worked great the entire time. Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes," reports a camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. The Doughton Park Campground operates "mid May to October 31," with some campers noting autumn brings increased traffic for fall colors. Always check seasonal closures when planning trips during shoulder seasons.
Road access considerations: Some mountain campgrounds require careful driving. Willville Motorcycle Camp has specific access notes: "We followed the directions provided by Tom, the owner, to a 'T'. The roads were windy and a tad narrow but definitely do-able as long as you took your time," shares a camper who navigated the approach successfully.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for families. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RV's/campers," notes a visitor at Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to historical sites. For example, campers note that Fort Chiswell is near the Shot Tower Historical Site which makes for an educational day trip, where children can learn about how lead shot was made for firearms in the 1800s.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Deer came right up to our camper and my husband saw them while walking our dog," reports a camper at Riverwalk RV Park, providing an experience children often remember from camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site levelness varies significantly between campgrounds. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, "Sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient. Located adjacent to a sheep and cow ranch. You can hear almost constant road noise if you are outside, not too much inside the your camper," notes a recent visitor.
Site selection for larger RVs: Some parks accommodate large RVs better than others. "They can handle the smaller TT to the largest monster-sized motor homes," reports a camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, though they add that "Each site is a pull-thru and is in the form of a crescent, so everyone's door faces the stream."
Water pressure variations: Water pressure can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. One camper notes "Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes but the pressure was adequate for making coffee, brushing our teeth and filling the water bowls for the dogs." Having a water pressure regulator is recommended when visiting mountain campgrounds near Speedwell.
