The rugged terrain of southwest Virginia near Dryden creates distinctive camping challenges. Elevations vary from 1,200 to 3,000 feet in this part of the Appalachian range, with late spring temperatures averaging 50-75°F. Most camping areas maintain minimal cell service except close to towns, requiring campers to prepare for intermittent communication options.
What to do
Hiking along Powell River: Walk directly from Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground across their footbridge to access the town's paved greenway trail. "Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek. Also the town is the home of writer Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of Big Stone Gap!" shares Twila B.
Disc golf course access: The athletic fields near Leeman Field Park offer an 18-hole disc golf course, perfect for afternoon recreation. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees.), tennis courts, and disc golf course," notes Julie.
Coal mining history exploration: Take a guided underground tour at Portal 31 Exhibition Mine, located directly across from camping sites. "This small park is located across the street from an exhibition coal mine, portal 31. If you want to see the history of coal production in southeast Kentucky, this is the place," explains Grant M.
Natural Tunnel exploration: The famous 850-foot natural limestone tunnel can be viewed from observation decks or visited via chairlift. "Just happened to be the one day a year the tunnel is open to walk through (it's an active railroad and closed otherwise)," mentions Julie about her experience at Natural Tunnel State Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites positioned along waterways provide both recreation and relaxation opportunities. "Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground. About half a mile from a nice little gas station and a KFC as well," notes Lauren J.
Pavilion facilities: Covered group areas with additional amenities enhance the camping experience at Lakeview RV Resort. "A wonderful covered pavilion with lots of tables and gas grills. They even had season firewood available for a couple dollars," shares Mike.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses in the region consistently receive positive reviews for cleanliness. "The bathrooms are the cleanest I've ever seen, you're close to town, and have a beautiful river that runs right by the campground," Jason W. writes about his experience camping in the area.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with seasonal activities. "We just got back yesterday 12/28/2021. We stayed 5 nights through Christmas and it was absolutely wonderful. Facilities were pristine. We visited the local museums and walked the green belt," reports Travis R.
What you should know
Mountain driving challenges: Routes to campgrounds often involve navigating steep grades and narrow roads, particularly for larger RVs. "We needed a spot to stay at the last minute and called the owner. We had two Jeeps with roof top tents, and while this is an RV Park, he has a few seasonal sites near the creek open. If the water is high, the sites aren't available," explains Twila B.
ATV trail access: Maps for nearby ATV routes are available at Around Pond RV Park. "Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also," according to local information provided by reviewers.
Limited camping in rainy conditions: Creek-side camping areas may close during periods of high water. Sites near water bodies might be unavailable during spring flooding season or after heavy rainfall.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more basic accommodations, tent-only areas provide an alternative to full-hookup sites. "Booked a 3 night stay over the weekend and had the primitive camping area to ourselves. 5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box," shares Sarah C.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pool access: Some campgrounds include pool admission with your stay fee. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool. Admission to the pool is included in campground fees," Julie points out.
Playground proximity: Multiple play areas at Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping provide entertainment for younger campers. "The other two campgrounds looked nice, with big, fancy bathhouses. And the cabins, wow, fancy! Hooray for Virginia State Parks!!" Sarah C. comments.
Tree gnome hunt activities: Some campgrounds feature carved figures hidden throughout the property for children to discover. "The park is well manicured with flowers and trees - and, make sure you search for the tree gnomes (carved into the trees). You might even find one hiding in the trees you chose to hang your hammock," Charlene advises.
Walking trail accessibility: Paved paths suitable for strollers and bikes connect campgrounds to nearby amenities. "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," Julie mentions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for levelness: Request information about the most level sites when booking RV camping near Dryden, Virginia. "The owner allowed us to choose our site, and after having driven through a full day of traffic, we chose the easiest to pull into (pull thru sites and back in sites available)," Charlene recalls from her camping experience.
Spacing between sites: Consider privacy factors when selecting a campground. "Sites are spaced out with some full-timers, part-timers and vacationers. Grass between each site. Fire pits and picnic tables at each site," Mike describes.
Water and power connections: While most parks offer full hookups, amperage options vary by location. "Campground sites are a bit close together but it is well maintained and has friendly staff. Wifi works well," notes Doreen M. about Cedar Cove RV Lots.
Campground management: Family-run facilities often provide personalized service. "Awesome family run campground. Super friendly staff. Clean campground. Great surprise in the mountains of Virginia!" Rosa B. shares about her experience.
