Glamping opportunities around Floyd, Virginia include canvas accommodations and rustic cabins nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 1,900-3,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm summers in the 80s and occasional snowfall during winter months. Several campgrounds remain open year-round with varying amenities based on weather conditions.
What to do
Rock hunting adventures: At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, visitors can search for the legendary fairy stones. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun. It was just after covid 19 started and lessening restrictions began," noted one visitor who also enjoyed biking and hiking during their stay.
Paddling on local lakes: The region offers multiple waterways for boating enthusiasts. "Kayaking was fun," mentioned one Fairy Stone visitor. At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, "There are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance."
Disc golf courses: Newer recreational options are available near Floyd. "They have full hookup RV sites along with dry ones and multiple tent camping options! They also have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" shared a camper from Chantilly Farm.
Mountain biking trails: Several campgrounds maintain trail systems for cyclists. "It is a beautiful venue with rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails," noted a reviewer about Chantilly Farm. At Claytor Lake, "Lots of hiking and bike trails throughout."
What campers like
Community fire experiences: Social gatherings around communal campfires create memorable experiences. At Willville Motorcycle Camp, "There is a community fire ring where Will builds a fire most nights. Coffee in the mornings, restaurants less than a mile away," explained a repeat visitor. Another mentioned, "Most evenings riders will gather on the porch to talk bikes and life."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer angling options. "There's a small pond (catch & release unless you want to pay)" at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. Salthouse Branch Campground provides "a pristine body of water for camping and kayaking" with convenient launch areas next to campsites.
Spacious tent sites: Campers appreciate well-designed tent areas. "The premium tent sites are huge! Clean bath house. Friendly staff!" reported a Chantilly Farm visitor. At Salthouse Branch Campground, "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots because of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain setting provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "We saw lots of deer roaming around," mentioned a Fairy Stone camper. Sighting a "male pileated woodpecker was a highlight" for another visitor to Salthouse Branch.
What you should know
Seasonal access variations: Many facilities operate differently throughout the year. "Most sites in the Floyd area remain open year-round, though amenities like swimming areas typically operate seasonally from late spring through early fall," according to Claytor Lake visitors. One camper noted, "There's a pool, a small pond, ping pong, rock mining, etc." available during peak season.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be inconsistent across the region. At Fairy Stone, visitors mentioned "No cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!" Similar reports come from other mountain campgrounds in the area.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Salthouse Branch Campground, "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance." Always check road conditions before visiting remote locations.
Alcohol policies vary: Campground rules differ regarding alcohol consumption. "The police visited us because we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," reported a Salthouse Branch camper. Check individual campground regulations before your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming options: Water recreation areas cater to different age groups. "They had a great playground for the kids nearby. We went swimming down at the beach in the morning - $3 per person, but free for campers - just bring your pass! There were beach volleyball courts - a kids water area and a free swimming water area," shared a Fairy Stone State Park visitor.
Educational ranger programs: State parks offer learning opportunities for children. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones," mentioned one family at Pilot Mountain. Another visitor enjoyed "attending the roving ranger talks" at Claytor Lake.
Multiple playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Mayberry Campground, "There's 2 good-sized ponds for catch and release and also 2 kids playgrounds." Wytheville KOA visitors mentioned "the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!"
Diverse accommodation types: Options range from basic tent sites to glamping structures for families seeking more comfort. "We stayed in Yurt#4 for 2 nights at Fairy Stone State Park... They have a nice large deck that is great for hanging out on while the kids were asleep," shared a parent who appreciated the balance between outdoor experience and comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific site characteristics. At Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground, "We stayed in a full hookup site 8 on top of a hill overlooking other areas of the park. They have sites for everyone and every type of camping!" Another visitor noted, "We were on top of a hill with other RV's with gorgeous views and sunsets."
Hookup availability: Utility connections vary between campgrounds. "Most sites have water/electric. C and D loops offer little to no site to site privacy, and loops A and B sites are wooded and angled to afford a scant more privacy," reported a Claytor Lake visitor. At Wytheville KOA, sites include "a patio and a fire bowl."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full sewer connections. "No sewer. There is a dumpsite close," noted a Salthouse Branch camper. Researching these details beforehand helps RVers plan appropriately for longer stays.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, one RVer mentioned, "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." Large rigs should verify access before booking at more remote mountain locations.
