Camping around Draper offers options along the New River Trail and near Claytor Lake at elevations between 1,700-2,500 feet in southwest Virginia's Blue Ridge mountains. The area experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Campgrounds in this region typically provide both primitive sites and full hookup options, with most facilities open from April through October.
What to do
Fishing at Gatewood Park: This park surrounds a 162-acre reservoir offering prime fishing opportunities with bass, crappie and catfish. "Wonderful place. Friendly staff. Good fishing. We have been there numerous time and is always a good stay," notes camper Melissa N. from Gatewood Park.
Hiking forest trails: The New River Trail State Park features approximately five miles of hiking paths with water views. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite," shares Angela J. who stayed at Claytor Lake State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Canoe and kayak rentals provide access to local waterways. "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," describes RL from a fall visit to Claytor Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While some campgrounds offer close quarters, others provide more secluded options. "The campsite was large and quiet which was nice. It felt somewhat private because of the trees and design of the site," mentions Angela J. about her experience at Claytor Lake.
Waterfront camping: Many sites offer direct lake or river access. "Campsite #3 was a 2 tier site with water front access. The water front sites are difficult to book, but off water sites are more readily available," explains Stephen from Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive consistent praise across multiple campgrounds. "Very clean campground. Has nice pool with waterside and game room with bowling and food and much more," notes Melissa B. who stayed at Wytheville KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the area close during winter months. "Claytor Lake was a great campground for families. Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun," shares Angela J. about her summer visit.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak season. "The park's trail system welcomes leashed dogs on approximately five miles of hiking paths," explains one visitor to the dog friendly campgrounds near Draper.
Cell service limitations: Some more remote locations have connectivity challenges. "This is a small place and was mostly full in early April. There's no cell service but they upgraded the WiFi and it's very good," explains Nora M. about Pioneer Village.
Traffic noise concerns: Campgrounds near highways may experience road noise. "One night stay, friendly staff, escorted to level site, beautiful creek, lovely," reports Russ N. about Pioneer Village, while noting its proximity to I-81.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple options exist for swimming and water recreation. "I love this park! Plenty of tent and RV sites. Lake beach passes included in price (when not under Covid restrictions). Boat rentals. Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers," shares Michelle W. about her Claytor Lake experience.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "A great out of the way location. A bit of a drive in but worth the travel. Extremely clean and well maintained facility," notes Dane R. who visited Fort Chiswell RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "This campground is good for a one night stopover and we would return to it for that purpose. Clean, convenient sites off highway 81," comments Kathy L. about a stopover near Draper.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Some campgrounds require leveling equipment. "We only stayed for one night and this location is very convenient for this area when traveling Interstate 81. Easy access to pull through sites, needed one inch block on one side to level off," explains John L. from his stay at Pioneer Village.
Access considerations: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Draper have challenging terrain. "Nice place, hard to navigate. We stayed here for vacation last year. There's a nice dog park, and the facilities are clean. My only negative was that they had us camp up on the top of the hill and it was difficult to navigate back down, with some very sharp turns for our fifth wheel," shares Megan B. about her experience at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Hookup placement: Water and electric connections may require extra equipment. "We had site B9 which was near a group site - so be mindful of this! During our trip it was full of loud and unsupervised kids," advises RL about site selection at Claytor Lake.
