Draper, Virginia sits at an elevation of approximately 2,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where overnight temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees lower than daytime highs even in summer months. The area's campgrounds take advantage of the region's numerous water features, with many sites offering direct access to Claytor Lake or New River watersheds. Local camping options range from primitive tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access to well-stocked waters with multiple species at Gatewood Park. "Great fishing," notes a visitor, highlighting the opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The park offers a reservoir setting ideal for catching various fish species.
Disc golf course: Free 9-hole course at Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue. "They also have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" mentions one camper. The course winds through the property's rolling hills, providing both recreation and exercise.
Horseback riding: Bring your own horses or simply enjoy watching the wild ponies at Hickory Ridge Campground. "The wild ponies make this area so special and worth the drive," states one reviewer. Horse stables are located adjacent to the Chestnut Hollow loop, making this a popular destination for equestrians.
Motorcycle touring: Specialized accommodations for riders at Willville Motorcycle Camp. A visitor shared, "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment." The camp's location provides easy access to popular Blue Ridge Parkway riding routes.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Consistently maintained at Fort Chiswell RV Park. "The public bathrooms and showers were clean, but really could use some upgrades," notes one camper. Another mentions that "very relaxing" describes their experience at this park just off Interstate 81.
Electrical access: Well-positioned hookups for charging devices. As one Willville visitor mentioned, "Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot (you can bring an extension cord if you need it for a CPAP or such)."
Wildlife viewing: Farm animals and wild creatures in natural settings. One Fort Chiswell camper writes, "You are surrounded by farm land on two sides and it was relaxing watching the cows and sheep graze on the hillsides. There's a large pond stocked with koi fish."
Glamping options: Safari-style tents and yurts at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. "They have a combination of tent sites and well-equipped RV sites, ranging from back-in to pull-through as well as cabins," a visitor notes. The property features pet-friendly accommodations including some sites with fenced pet backyards.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Plan communications accordingly. At Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground, "There's no cell service but they upgraded the WiFi and it's very good." Many campgrounds throughout the area have spotty coverage depending on provider.
Reservation requirements: Book early for premium sites. A Gatewood visitor notes, "The water front sites are difficult to book, but off water sites are more readily available." At popular glamping locations, weekends often fill months in advance.
Weather variability: Pack for temperature swings at Stone Mountain State Park Campground. Located just across the North Carolina border, a camper advises, "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case." Elevation changes can cause significant temperature differences even within short distances.
Limited services: Stock up before arrival at remote locations. "This campground is miles from anywhere so make sure you have what you need or the trip into town will take a while," notes a Gatewood Park visitor. Most glamping in Draper, Virginia requires advance planning for supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Swimming and playground options at Wytheville KOA. "It seems like a great place for kids with a pool with a waterslide," reports a visitor. The site also offers regular organized activities for children during peak seasons.
Educational experiences: Historical features within walking distance. "Plenty to keep kids busy, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area," shares a Hickory Ridge visitor.
Privacy considerations: Select sites carefully for family needs. At Chantilly Farm, "We enjoyed a weekend here a couple weeks ago. It was a great campground. Fun for everyone," but another notes some areas have "tightly spaced and lacking privacy" sites.
Budget planning: Different fee structures for various camping types. One visitor to glamping sites in Draper, Virginia mentioned, "Saw $44 per night on website. Was charged $54 when I showed up," highlighting the importance of confirming current rates before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for varied terrain. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, "Sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient," but visitors should be aware that some areas require additional leveling equipment.
Access considerations: Road width limitations on approach routes. One Chantilly Farm visitor noted, "Getting there was quite a journey over narrow curvy roads but once there it was a nice area." RVs over 35 feet may find certain access roads challenging.
Full hookup availability: Sites with complete services at strategic locations. "We had site 8 on top of a hill overlooking other areas of the park. They have sites for everyone and every type of camping!" reports a Chantilly Farm visitor.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management when booking. A camper at Fort Chiswell noted, "The dump station was adjacent to the camp host site," making end-of-stay cleanup convenient for RV glamping in Draper, Virginia area campgrounds.
