D
Durand C.
Scout
ScoutIndian Heritage RV Park
Friendly staff
The campground is very well kept. Super friendly staff and in a good location.
Camping near Hollins, VA
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping options near Hollins, Virginia range from primitive sites along the Appalachian Trail to full-service developed campgrounds. The Blue Ridge Parkway corridor provides several camping areas, including Peaks of Otter Campground located about 25 miles northeast of Hollins at milepost 85.9. Explore Park near Roanoke offers cabin rentals, RV sites, and tent camping within a mixed-use recreation area. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing provides cabin accommodations alongside tent and RV options in a natural setting approximately 30 miles northwest of Hollins.
Several campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations, with many open from spring through fall. Peaks of Otter Campground typically operates from May through late October, while Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground remains open year-round. Higher elevation camping areas experience cooler temperatures even during summer months, while lower-elevation sites along the Roanoke River valley offer milder conditions. Dispersed camping opportunities exist along sections of the Appalachian Trail at designated shelters like Johns Spring and Catawba Mountain, though these primitive sites lack amenities and require proper water filtration. One visitor noted that at Johns Spring Shelter, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North."
Campers frequently highlight the proximity to popular hiking destinations as a key benefit of staying in the Hollins area. Dragon's Tooth, a distinctive rock formation accessible via the Appalachian Trail, draws hikers and overnight campers. Several visitors mentioned its challenging terrain but rewarding views. The Dragon's Tooth trailhead provides vault toilets and bear-proof trash receptacles for hikers and campers. Developed campgrounds like Dixie Caverns and Explore Park receive positive reviews for their convenient amenities and proximity to attractions, though roadway noise affects some sites. According to a recent review, Explore Park offers "all new facilities and only $25 a night. Electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby" with mountain biking trails and educational programs available within the park boundaries.
Best Campgrounds near Hollins (141)
1. Dixie Caverns
"Did I say it’s close to I 81?"
"just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"
2. Don's Cab-Inns Campground
"First, it is a private campground located in a public park - in this case, Explore Park in Roanoke, Virginia (milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway)."
"The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling. Also, an outlet to charge your phone."
from $25 - $100 / night
Check Availability3. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Picked for price Quiet
Enjoyed Blueridge parkway
NIce retreat in SW Virginia"
"It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill."
from $30 / night
Check Availability4. Tina's Dream
from $40 / night
5. Dragon's Tooth
"dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail, there is a good amount of parking with a bathroom and garbage, once you begin the trail there are a few dispersed obvious camping spots"
"This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area. Car camping is the only option at this time."
6. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT
"Near water (collect water with a filter only) I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go.
Lots of space for many people.
Not too far from McAfee knob."
7. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing
"We were not sure about taking such a detour from our path to Asheville, but are so glad we did! We booked a spot “in the meadow” but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more."
"If you’re up for a fun hike, take the Outerspace trail up to “The Bluff” and enjoy the mountain views."
from $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability8. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
"There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat."
9. Explore Park
from $25 - $150 / night
Check Availability10. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
"This is a well maintained area with access to several hiking trails of all difficulty levels. The lake is beautiful and my entire family enjoyed our time!"
"Stopping at Smith Mountain lake was well worth it during my mini road trip through VA. Pros: huge lake with tons of outdoor activities (trails for running/walking, boating activities, kayaking)."
from $27 - $159 / night
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Drive Time
- 34 min from Blacksburg, VA
- 1 hr 52 min from Beckley, WV
Recent Camping Photos near Hollins, VA
220 Photos of 141 Hollins Campgrounds
Tara S.
Don's Cab-Inns Campground
Dave V.
Dixie Caverns
Chaz M.
Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing
Addison S.
Creekside Glamping
kaitlin R.
The Country, LLC
Carlie S.
The Pines Campground
Jen V.
Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Ryan W.
Camp S'mores
Roland R.
Middle Creek Campground
Dave V.
Camp Alta Mons
Kate V.
Breeden Bottom Campground
Graham D.
North Creek Campground
Recent Reviews near Hollins, VA
596 Reviews of 141 Hollins Campgrounds
- CChris H.
GuideDixie Caverns
Typical rural campground
I stayed at Dixie Caverns Campground for two weekend nights and found it to be a good value for the money. This is a very basic campground, so if you're looking for resort-style amenities like a pool, playground, or organized activities, this probably isn't the place for you. However, if you understand what a typical rural campground is like, you'll likely find it meets expectations. One of the biggest advantages is the location. The campground is in the Dixie Caverns parking lot, making it incredibly convenient to visit the caves, and campers receive a discount on cave tours. There is also a brand-new gas station and Which Wich sandwich shop within sight of the campground, which made grabbing fuel, snacks, or a quick meal very easy. The staff deserves special recognition. Everyone I encountered was exceptionally friendly, helpful, and welcoming, honestly some of the nicest campground staff I've met anywhere. The sites are fairly small and close together, but all the hookups worked properly during my stay, including water, sewer, and electric. I had read reviews complaining about unlevel sites and roads, but I didn't experience any issues with leveling my rig. The bathhouse was about what I'd expect from a rural campground. It was functional, but it could use a fresh coat of paint and a more thorough cleaning. It wasn't anything unusual for an older campground, but it is an area that could use some attention. One thing to be aware of is the road noise. The campground sits close to a roadway, so you'll hear traffic throughout much of the day and night. There are also some older RVs in the campground that add a bit of character and are interesting to look at. Overall, Dixie Caverns Campground is not fancy, but it was affordable, convenient, and served its purpose well. If you're a very particular camper who wants premium amenities and a pristine campground experience, you may want to look elsewhere. But if you're looking for a reasonably priced place to stay with great staff and reliable hookups, I'd say it's exactly what you'd expect for the money and maybe a little better thanks to the outstanding people who run it.
Ethan W.ScoutLake Sherwood Road Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest
Great Spot, slightly dirty
If you’re expecting service just don’t. I didn’t get service till i left and drove for about an hour till i finally got one bar. If that isn’t an issue for you this place is pretty great. Solitude yourself deep in the forest and if you’re lucky you can get a site near the creak. Unfortunately my site was absolutely littered with trash when i arrived. I’m talking beer bottles and trash all over the place, DIAPERS IN THE FIRE PIT… I mean get a grip people. Other than that it was amazing.
- EEric W.Guide
Indian Heritage RV Park
Perfect Everything!
It’s not too often you get amazing hospitality anywhere these days, BUT THIS PLACE HAS IT! From the phone call to the arrival, the Indian Heritage RV Park is impressive. The park has level gravel sites, both pull-thru’s and back-ins, and they vary from fully- to partially-shaded to full sun. Solid-connecting WiFi is available with speeds to easily watch a movie. There’s even a trash can at each site. But wait, there’s more. If you’ve been on the road way too long and crave personal bathroom space, check out their bathhouse—individual rooms make it feel like you’re at a resort…plenty of space and super clean and inviting! The laundry room offers two washers, dryers, folding tables, and a hanging rack (bring your own hangers); again, super clean. This park is located on the Smith River and I highly recommend getting a lakeside spot if one’s available…spectacular view if you have a back porch on your rig! Jody was our host and makes you feel like you’re part of the family. The owner (sorry I forgot his name) is also very friendly. Restaurants are a few blocks down the street but you wouldn’t know it unless you took a short walk…that’s how tucked away this place is. Definitely staying here again the next time I travel Hwy 58!
John P.ScoutFairy Stone State Park Campground
Nice new sites
This is a nice little place with level sites and easy shower/restroom access. I thought it was a little pricey and we had to drive to the lake, but it's a nice place to paddle board or kayak because they don't allow motor boats. They have a nice beach that our kid liked. You also have to the fairy stone hunting ground - we didn't find any. But there's a cool hiking trail with a couple of abandoned mine entrances.
- Chris M.Scout
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
Great quiet place with good facilities
Good facilities. Clean and hot showers. Good beach area. Docks for fishing could use some markers on the trails to find them. Could use a playground given it's labells as a familycamp
- NNicole Z.
TravelerLake Sherwood Road Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest
Off grid sites
Well maintained blacktop road which made it easy to get a camper or a van through. Some of the sites further up the road are away from the creek but less buggy. They were large and well-maintained. I like the privacy of the sites further up. I would highly recommend this off upgrade site.
Greg S.
LegendYogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge
4.6 stars
Very beautiful surrounds and plenty of family fun to be had here. Pool, waterslides, splash pad, jumping pillows, playgrounds, mini golf, and of course the James River, to which our campsite was immediately adjacent. It's 8 minutes to the state park with the natural bridge, which is spectacular. . The staff are super nice and helpful.
- KKelsey P.Scout
Oronoco Campground
Cramped and overrun/crowded
From all the reviews on this site, we thought it would be more dispersed/private than it is. If you’re ok with seeing and hearing strangers as you sit in front of your own campfire, then this is the spot for you. Not for those who want privacy and true connection with nature and surroundings.
Guide to Hollins
Camping near Hollins, Virginia ranges from primitive shelters on the Appalachian Trail to developed state parks with full amenities. The region sits at the intersection of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Roanoke Valley, creating diverse camping environments between 1,200 and 3,000 feet elevation. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing while summer highs typically reach 80-90°F with higher humidity in valley campgrounds.
What to do
Hike the Dragon's Tooth trail: Located about 20 minutes from Hollins, this challenging trail leads to a distinctive rock formation. "This is a huge campground it has 137 sites that is right in between two mountains... Lots of hiking trails, but make sure you look at the map because we unfortunately did not look at it well enough and thought that the trail was a loop when it led to the opposite side of the mountain and we had to hitch hike back to the campsite," reports one camper at Peaks Of Otter Campground.
Visit nearby caverns: Dixie Caverns offers underground tours near camping facilities. "You are in budget country. Great price and affordable attraction that will not disappoint. Right off the interstate so easy access. Small spaces but everyone was very friendly," notes a visitor at Dixie Caverns Campground.
Explore mountain biking trails: Multiple trail systems are accessible from Explore Park. "It has mountain bike trails, a cool vintage village, access to the Roanoke River, an aerial obstacle course, and more cool stuff," shares a reviewer who stayed at Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing despite being developed. "Tent sites are large and a good distance apart. RV sites are good and have decent privacy. Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station," reports a camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
Proximity to water: Multiple camping areas offer lake or river access. "I actually stayed in an Airbnb along Smith mountain lake, but can imagine camping would be beautiful. Lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open," notes a reviewer about the Smith Mountain Lake area.
Star viewing opportunities: Clear skies away from city lights provide excellent star gazing. "Boy are there some amazing stars out here," reports a simple but enthusiastic review from Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
What you should know
Highway noise affects some sites: Some campgrounds near Hollins are located close to major roads. "The fact is, you are surrounded on three sides by roadway...and the actual Dixie Cavern is at the base of a mountain, so all the road traffic is above the campground and the noise reverberates off the mountain and surrounding walls 24/7. Trust me when I say, semi-truck noise is loud during the twilight hours when the din of the day has disappeared," warns a camper from Dixie Caverns.
Limited water sources on trails: Some primitive camping areas require planning for water. "You do have to bring your own bed linens or a sleeping bag with you. The brand new bathhouse includes private bathrooms with showers, and there is a small store on site for buying ice, firewood, and necessities like bug spray or soap," explains a visitor to Don's Cab-Inns.
Seasonal campground closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes a camper about Explore Park, highlighting its year-round accessibility.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Some parks offer programs specifically for children. "All new facilities and only $25 a night. Electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby...and education classes for children. Mountain biking. Quiet location," shares a visitor to Explore Park.
Consider cabin options for easier family stays: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals as alternatives to tent camping. "These cabins have plenty of room for a family or couple getaway. The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling," explains a visitor to Don's Cab-Inns.
Find campgrounds with swimming access: Water activities can keep children entertained. "During the day, the state park offers trails and a beach area to swim, kayak or canoe," notes a camper from Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before setup: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain have uneven sites. "FHU. Sites not level. Very narrow sites. Some full time residents' rigs give the Breaking Bad class C a run for their money, if they run. Only campground close to Roanoke Va. Moldy rv's, broken picnic tables, and rutted roads. The staff is nice," warns a brutally honest reviewer at Dixie Caverns.
Prepare for tight spacing at some locations: RV sites can be close together at certain campgrounds. "We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers. This campground seems to have a lot of permanent residents. Overall, this campground is good for one or two nights but not for long periods of stays," explains a visitor to Dixie Caverns.
Look for pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "We stayed in site #7, in the trailer loop. It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill," describes a camper from Peaks of Otter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hollins, VA?
What camping is available near Hollins, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hollins, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near Hollins, VA and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Hollins, VA?
Which is the most popular campground near Hollins, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hollins, VA is Dixie Caverns with a 3.3-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hollins, VA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hollins, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Hollins, VA.
What parks are near Hollins, VA?
What parks are near Hollins, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Hollins, VA that allow camping, notably Philpott Lake and George Washington & Jefferson National Forest.
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