D
Doreen M.
Scout
ScoutLakeview RV Resort
Clean and well maintained, friendly staff
Campground sites are a bit close together but it is well maintained and has friendly staff. Wifi works well. Nice dog park.
Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Fort Blackmore, VA
Natural Tunnel State Park Campground accepts pets at all camping areas including its primitive sites, cabins, and RV loops. The park offers multiple pet-friendly accommodation options with Lover's Leap campground providing spacious sites that keep adequate distance between neighbors. Both Lover's Leap and Cove View campgrounds feature clean facilities with showers and laundry, while the primitive camping area includes tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes. Dogs must be leashed throughout the park, including on the network of hiking trails. Several other pet-friendly options near Fort Blackmore include Warriors' Path State Park, Jessie Lea RV Park, Flag Rock Recreation Area, and Bristol-Kingsport KOA. The primitive camping area sometimes remains entirely unoccupied even when other campgrounds are full.
Hiking trails throughout Natural Tunnel State Park accommodate leashed dogs, with the Purchase Ridge Trail offering a moderate forest hike directly accessible from the campground. The Lover's Leap Trail provides stunning views but includes sections along steep drop-offs that may challenge those with heights concerns or excited dogs. The chairlift to the natural tunnel operates seasonally, typically only on weekends during off-peak periods, though pets are permitted when accompanied by owners. Campers should take bear and coyote warnings seriously when camping with pets, properly securing food and trash. The nearby town of Duffield, approximately 15 minutes away, provides basic services including a grocery store and gas stations where campers can purchase pet supplies if needed. Rangers regularly patrol the campgrounds on golf carts, ensuring safety for all visitors including those with pets.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Fort Blackmore, Virginia (113)
1. Natural Tunnel State Park Campground
19 ReviewsDuffield, VA10 milesWebsite+1 (276) 940-2674"The views are spectacular, Camping with electric, water and showers was just a bonus to all the beauty around us and pet friendly. Great people all around and we felt so welcomed."
"Great place for dog walks. Tunnel very cool."
2. Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
26 ReviewsKingsport, TN20 milesWebsite+1 (888) 867-2757"We had a change of plans and made reservations at Warrior Path State Park on a whim - and are VERY glad we did."
"This park is located about 15 minutes off I-81 just south of the VA/TN border, making it extremely convenient, and a great place to stop for anyone traveling that stretch of the country."
3. Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground
8 ReviewsBig Stone Gap, VA13 milesWebsite+1 (276) 523-0055"Great surprise in the mountains of Virginia! beautiful creek nearby!"
"We visited the local museums and walked the green belt. The green belt is next to the camp ground within walking distance. We will be back!"
4. Flag Rock Recreation Area Campground
4 ReviewsNorton, VA10 milesWebsite+1 (276) 679-0754$20 / night
"Great campground with biking/hiking trails and mountain scenic overlook. Clean bathhouses, picnic tables, fire rings, charcoal grills, and electricity provided. Quiet with great views."
"Continuing on there is a short walk to a lovely overlook. There are very nice picnic shelters. Our only complaint was the place had a number of lampoles with lights that were on all night."
5. Lover's Leap Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
3 ReviewsDuffield, VA10 milesWebsite$37 / night
"This trip we took a car ride to Big Stone Gap, a thriving little town about 30 minutes north of the park - it's a nice quiet but interesting town, with a nice dog park. "
"The cabins look fantastic from the outside. For more adventures you can also rent a yurt. There is also a little campstore that has firewood and some essentials. The area is very scenic."
6. Cove View Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
3 ReviewsDuffield, VA10 milesWebsite$37 - $80 / night
"Also the crows - smarter than normal haha they WILL wake you up earlier than the other birds demanding you make breakfast and leave so they can then hop around your camp."
"Amazing trails, well maintained with breathtaking views. Camp site was clean. Accessible. Camp store had all the needed supplies and then some. Friendly staff. Well monitored for safety."
7. Devils Fork Campground
1 ReviewFort Blackmore, VA4 milesWebsite8. Clinch River Family Campground
6 ReviewsDuffield, VA19 milesWebsite+1 (877) 254-6247"Lots of open space pets. This is very country setting. Friendly host."
"A few friends and I visited this campground in June of 2018 so we could visit the Natural Tunnel and the Devil's Fork Loop Trail."
9. Bristol-Kingsport KOA
4 ReviewsKingsport, TN20 milesWebsite+1 (423) 323-7790"I’d never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting."
"The park is also near Warriors Path State Park, which is fun to go hike and see. They have several large pull through sites, as well as back in smaller sites."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Fort Blackmore, VA
77 Photos of 113 Fort Blackmore Campgrounds
Amethyst B.
Cove View Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
Katrin M.
Lover's Leap Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
Rachael H.
Natural Tunnel State Park Campground
Charlene
Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground
Jessica M.
Breath of Dawn
Khristina B.
Cabin on The Creek
Nathan T.
Thunder Mountain Campground
Jess B.
Kingdom Come State Park Campground
Tom F.
Posh Mtn Camping w/ Theater ·Hot-Tub ·Keg ·Firepit
Eleanor the Airstream R.
Observation Knob Park
Peter K.
Around Pond RV Park
Doug S.
Friendship Rd
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Fort Blackmore, VA
449 Reviews of 113 Fort Blackmore Campgrounds
Susan E.
GuideBristol-Kingsport KOA
What luck!
I’d never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting. Mindful of my budget I learned to ask for a tent site with no electricity, no water, just toilets and showers. The young man who helped me observed I was alone and put me in a small cabin for no additional charge. Just outside the cabin was a bonfire of old wood from construction debris. I was super stoked to get this deal. I spent lots of time stoking that fire and sitting outdoors watching the evening arrive. If you’re anywhere near the area do stop in and enjoy a quiet and lovely night. You can even pet the horses nearby.
- N
N I.
LegendBaileyton KOA Holiday
Country Time
Sites: 60 Pull thrus
RV-Tent-Cabins 15-30-50 amp service
Hot showers, pool, pets allowed, toilets, laundry, small grocery store This is only of couple of miles off I40 in the rolling hills of Tennessee, very quiet and well maintained. Sites ae a bit close together but not on top of each other. Gravel pads, fire rings, picnic table, trash. Beautiful green space and dog walk area. Enjoy the hiking.
LNT
Travel safe
Carol J.GuideLover's Leap Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
Come Back Again and Again
This was my third visit to the NTSP - I really enjoy the camping, and the pool and Natural Tunnel are great fun. Each time I've camped in Lover's Leap, and all the sites are well spaced. Have stayed in #3 and #5, and #12 which is even more private. The restrooms and showers are always clean, and there is a nice laundry area as well. This trip we took a car ride to Big Stone Gap, a thriving little town about 30 minutes north of the park - it's a nice quiet but interesting town, with a nice dog park. Took a car ride to Gate City, south of the park - wouldn't recommend it. It's a city on it's way down. The short ride to the Blockhouse in the park is interesting, with nice views of the mountains. The ride and hike up and down to the tunnel is always fun. In the summers they light the tunnel one Saturday night each month, so it's worth trying to plan for that.
Robin M.GuideNatural Tunnel State Park Campground
Spectacular views
The views are spectacular, Camping with electric, water and showers was just a bonus to all the beauty around us and pet friendly. Great people all around and we felt so welcomed.
DennisGuideClinch River Family Campground
Beautiful little campground right along the river.
Mostly level gravel spots. Sites are close together. Block bathhouse that the spiders enjoy. Beautiful river. Lots of open space pets. This is very country setting. Friendly host.
- Terri W.Scout
Cedar Ridge Hammock Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
Clean and efficent
There are 2 main campgrounds here for rvs and tents. Is it a nice safe place for families. Pets welcome. 30 and up a night with a good security faculty.
- NN I.Legend
Around Pond RV Park
Peace on the Lake
Pull thrus
15-20-30-50 amp
Pets allowed
Showers, toilets, fishing pond (2 acre stocked) Adults or seniors
Rates by day or week $40.00-$200.00
aroundpondrvpark.com 432-234-0229 Very open area with a lot of RV's and a really nice fishing lake. Well maintained and manicured.
LNT
Travel safe
- GGisela C.Scout
Carr Creek State Park Campground
RV/Tent camp by mtn lake
Overall; nice place, bathrooms get gross quickly when campground is at full capacity. Not handicap friendly. Good cell service, 4G. Small beach area, clear water for swimming, but have quite a few steps to walk down to the lake. Playground equipment was taken down, only had a couple of swings. All sites have electric and water, picnic table, two poles to hang garbage or lantern, also fire rings with grates for cooking on Pets allowed on leash. Firewood and ice available.
Attendant on site, not a ranger, maybe a "workamper?" Bathrooms cleaned only once in the midmorning. The commodes have a button to flush which is difficult to push. I think young children couldn't push it, so the toilets got nasty and full. Toilet paper ran out by early evening. There was no commode in the handicap stall in the women's room. Hot showers with regular handle for continual flow (as opposed to some places that only run a couple of minutes before you have to push the button again.
Most sites are shaded and grassy areas. Sites 7, 8, 26, 28, 31 are washed out, not good for putting up a tent. Lake surrounds campground but not visible through the trees. A few very steep trails from some sites down to the lake.
Beach is about 100 yds long. Water was clean and clear. It might be a slight challenge walking back up the steps to the parking lot if you're not in good shape. If you plan on hanging out at the beach area for awhile, I suggest bringing a beach tent, it gets hot. There is a drive way down to the beach for handicap access, but the gate was locked. There is a marina on the other side of the road. I believe you can rent a pontoon there.
While we were there, somebody with a super loud speed boat was racing around, so be aware that if you're wanting peace and quiet, there is boating noise. There was also a group of campers that had speakers set up and played their music Sat night that was annoying. Not super loud, but we just didn't care for their style of music. We tolerated it, but don't know why they weren't asked to turn it down. To me, music shouldn't be heard much past your own site.
It's about 5+/- miles in either direction for a store. There is an ice cream place about 2 miles away that also sells basic prep fried food and breakfast.
Our electric didn't work (site 33) but we were with another couple and plugged into theirs next to us. We usually primitive camp, but because of the Aug heat, it's nice to have a fan at night.
We might camp there again. The main thing is that the bath house needs to be updated and attended to more than once a day. It's better than nothing, but I'd rather go in an outhouse than see an overflowing toilet.
Guide to Fort Blackmore
Fort Blackmore's camping areas sit within the rugged Appalachian terrain of southwestern Virginia, where elevations range from 1,200 to over 3,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with moderate summers averaging 75-85°F and winters dipping below freezing. Camping options span from developed state park facilities to more secluded primitive sites along the Clinch River watershed.
What to Do
Canoe the Clinch River: Natural Tunnel State Park offers seasonal canoe trips on the Clinch River near the campground. "Canoed Clinch River, caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel. Highly recommend!" notes Rob J. at Natural Tunnel State Park.
Explore local museums: Big Stone Gap is approximately 30 minutes from Fort Blackmore with several small museums. "The historical background of the state park is varied and extensive, so there are a lot of things to see within the park and surrounding the park," mentions Myron C.
Fish at Warriors' Path: The park features lake access with multiple fishing spots. "The lake is near the sites and a boundless playground is also nearby," shares Kate S. from Warriors' Path State Park, noting it's an excellent option for dog friendly campgrounds near Fort Blackmore.
Visit Devils Bathtub: Located about 30-45 minutes from Fort Blackmore near Clinch River. "We chose to only hike to Devils bathtub (about 2 miles one way). It was exceptional but difficult," reports Beth B. from Clinch River Family Campground.
What Campers Like
Private, spacious campsites: The Lover's Leap Campground offers generous site spacing. "The sites are very spacious and private. It comes with the usual amenities like a fire ring, picnic table, and a lantern pole. There was even an extra little wooden table on every site," describes Katrin M. at Lover's Leap Campground.
Seasonal chairlift access: Natural Tunnel offers a unique chairlift experience down to the tunnel floor. "The chairlift to view the tunnel, picnic areas, swimming pool and so much more," lists Kathy L., noting multiple pet-friendly amenities.
Proximity to greenway trails: Several campgrounds connect to local walking paths. "The greenway runs just over the river and takes you into Big Stone Gap where you will find local restaurants and shops," explains Charlene from Jessie Lea RV Park, located about 25 minutes from Fort Blackmore.
Clean, updated facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain modern bathhouses. "Campground and park are clean, well maintained and up to date," shares Rob J. about his experience at Natural Tunnel State Park.
What You Should Know
Weather contingencies: The primitive camping area along the river may close during high water periods. "If the water is high, the sites aren't available," explains Twila B., who stayed at Jessie Lea RV Park.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty reception. "You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road," warns Beth B. about access to Clinch River Family Campground.
Distance from main roads: Some campgrounds require significant travel on secondary routes. "Be prepared for 7 mile drive from main road... Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile," notes Beth B.
Bear precautions required: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. "Take bear and coyote warnings SERIOUSLY my friends. I've seen plenty out there but never had a problem taking proper precautions," advises Amethyst B. from Cove View Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
All-ages activities: Look for campgrounds with family programming. "The park has a lot of activities for all ages. They have ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day," recommends Sara M. at Warriors' Path State Park.
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated children's play areas. "Great campground. So much fun stuff for the kids to do. Great trails for hiking or biking," shares Monica S. about Natural Tunnel State Park.
Cool summer options: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. "We stayed in a yurt, and it was definitely a learning experience... once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven... take extension cords and at least one fan," suggests Myron C., highlighting summer heat considerations even at higher elevations.
Consider primitive camping with kids: The primitive area at Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping offers a rustic experience with basic amenities. "5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box. Then there is a very large, communal fire pit, and an open but covered shelter with picnic tables and an outlet to charge your tech things," details Sarah C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection cautions: Many campgrounds have varied site dimensions. "The camp store people said they are unable to use spigot nearby common shelter because it's no good," notes Sarah C. about water access at primitive sites.
Leveling requirements: Bring stabilizing equipment for uneven terrain. "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks... there's no wifi or cable and no sewer hookup," points out Michelle I. from Warriors' Path.
RV size limitations: Check maximum vehicle lengths before booking. "Many of the sites are narrow and some have challenging access. Be sure to read site descriptions and check the suggested trailer size - they seriously mean the max size!!" warns Sara M.
Seasonal facility closures: Pool, chairlift, and some amenities operate on limited schedules. "Although there are playgrounds, a swimming complex, an amphitheater, and much more, some of these venues are closed for the season," mentions Myron C.
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Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Fort Blackmore, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Fort Blackmore, VA is Natural Tunnel State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.
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What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Fort Blackmore, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 113 dog-friendly camping locations near Fort Blackmore, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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