North Carolina's Stone Mountain State Park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet, while Grayson Highlands State Park reaches elevations over 5,000 feet, creating diverse glamping microclimates near Elk Creek, Virginia. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, making seasonal planning essential for luxury outdoor stays. The region's campgrounds maintain specialized glamping accommodations throughout changing mountain conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Hickory Ridge Campground provides access to wild pony habitats through connecting trails. "Love camping here. Beautiful and quiet, you can go for hours without seeing another soul. More of a wilderness experience though, for sure. Not many bathrooms," notes camper Grace M.
Trout fishing in mountain streams: Fish stocked waters accessible directly from Hurricane Campground sites. "This is a beautiful campground located alongside a stream with trout fishing. Site#2 in particular is susceptible to flash flooding, but if the forecast is for dry weather, it would be hard to beat this site," advises Jean C.
Overnight paddling trips: Arrange multi-day glamping stays along New River access points. "You can rent a tube to place a cooler inside of so you can tube down the river with beverages and snacks in tow," according to campers at New River Canoe and Campground.
Stargazing from mountain vistas: Open meadow sites provide unobstructed night sky views. "Gorgeous campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," writes Emily D. about Stone Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Private glamping sites: Stone Mountain State Park Campground features secluded luxury tent platforms. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," reports Joe B. The park's glamping platforms maintain privacy while providing easy access to natural features.
Heated accommodation options: Many campers appreciate climate-controlled yurts during shoulder seasons. "We tent camped here in the Royal Oak section. Campsites in this section are tent only and very nice and have platforms. Rv sites are crowded. Clean bath houses, and plenty to do," shares Denise about Hungry Mother State Park.
Walkable trail access: Direct connections to major hiking systems from glamping locations. "Jump on the AT or any number of other trails for a multi day or just a simple day hike. The wild ponies make this area so special and worth the drive," recommends Kevin G.
On-site recreation amenities: Modern entertainment complements natural settings. "Fun for everyone. What a nice clean campground! We stayed for a few days and enjoyed it just wish everything would have been opened but with what all is going on it's understandable," notes Tim H. about Wytheville KOA's recreation facilities.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most mountain glamping sites have minimal connectivity. "There is no cell phone service. The campsite is wooded and the spaces are distanced well. The bathhouse could use some upgrading but it served its purpose," warns Carissa D. about Grindstone Recreation Area.
Seasonal closures and limitations: Many luxury camping facilities close completely during winter months. "Closed as of January 25, 2021," reported Hannah L. about Hurricane Campground's seasonal shutdown.
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality ranges from primitive to full-service across different glamping providers. "The bathhouse could use upgrading but it served its purpose. Very frustrating... you have to push the shower head to get water... great way to conserve but it gave you no time to enjoy the water," notes Kristi D.
Advanced reservations required: Premium glamping accommodations book months in advance. "We stayed here on a fall trip to Pigeon Forge. Great little campground with a nice biking/hiking trail along the lake. Kids had a great time!" shares Molly F., who planned ahead for their Hungry Mother stay.
Tips for camping with families
All-weather activity planning: Wytheville KOA offers indoor options when weather turns. "This campground is terrific! All the facilities are extremely well kept and clean, the store has lots of necessities and some fun souvenirs. Our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" shares Lisa T.
Select sites near restrooms: When glamping with children, bathroom proximity matters. "We camped at site 3 in Royal Oak Campground, pitching the tent on a 20'x20' leveled wooden platform. Several pros and cons to elevated platforms," explains Dave V., noting the importance of bathroom access for families.
Kid-friendly trail options: Choose glamping sites with short, manageable hikes. "This is a very well maintained campground. The roads are all in good condition, the bathrooms and showers are good. There is a .6 mile trail nearby (Whispering Waters Trail) which is good for beginners & small kids," recommends Robert R.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevation causes significant day-to-night fluctuations. "Grayson Highlands is a must-do for all campers, hikers, and adventurers. Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds. Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," advises danielle H.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Some glamping areas have challenging approach roads. "For RV sites, Wytheville KOA's glamping units sit adjacent to their recreation center, where guests can enjoy bowling, mini-golf, and swimming in the on-site pool," according to camp reviews.
Full hookup availability: Check utility connections before booking luxury sites. "They have plenty of sites with electric and water," notes a camper about Hungry Mother's glamping areas, though "The full hookups are just so far from the main park."
Site positioning and views: Request specific glamping platforms based on scenery preferences. "We stayed at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," recommends Charli R. about Stone Mountain State Park's premium sites.
Seasonal rental options: Many glamping facilities offer different packages depending on the time of year. "Located not too far from I-81, easy to get to. This CG does a lot of overnight business, there is a parade of campers arriving from mid afternoon to after dark," observes Michael H. about Fort Chiswell RV Park.
