Camping options near Narrows, Virginia concentrate along the New River which flows through the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 1,600 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while winter brings freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall. Most camping locations in this region offer river access for recreation, with varying levels of facilities from primitive sites to full-hookup RV camping.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Camp Creek State Park's Mash Fork Campground serves as an excellent base for waterfall exploration. "The waterfalls are a short walk from the campground... The waterfalls were very sparse when we were there so not sure about other times of the year," notes a visitor from February 2025. Several falls are accessible within short drives of the park.
River tubing and shuttle service: At New River Junction Campground, tubing is a popular warm-weather activity. "Bring your fishing pole for some great catch and release fishing, or rent a inner tub or canoe and float down River to a shuttle bus that brings you back to the campgrounds," explains one camper. The site provides tube rentals and transportation back to camp.
Off-road adventures: Kairos Wilderness Resort sits on 1,500 acres with 41+ miles of trails. "If you want to go ride dirt bikes or UTVs this place is definitely the spot," writes one reviewer. The extensive trail system accommodates various skill levels for motorized recreation.
What campers like
Free camping with basic amenities: Walnut Flats offers no-cost camping with simple facilities. "Nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings, level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole, restrooms but I didn't use them," reports a long-term visitor who stayed nearly two weeks. Sites include fire rings and level tent pads.
Riverside camping spots: At Eggleston Springs Campground, the river proximity enhances the camping experience. "The campsite was great! Right up against the river with beautiful mountain back drop. Most camp sites have electricity and a fire pit," shares a camper. The water serves as both scenery and recreation opportunity.
Clean facilities with hot showers: Claytor Lake State Park maintains well-kept bathhouses. "Shower houses were well maintained daily throughout the week, however not on weekends when it tends to be most crowded," notes one family. Another camper mentions, "Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers. Wood, ice and soda machines available."
What you should know
Train noise disruption: Railroad tracks near campgrounds can significantly impact sleep quality. At New River Junction Campground, "There were about 8 trains that passed through on our first night which led us to not sleeping well! So bring ear plugs!" advises one camper. Similar reports come from Eggleston Springs.
Limited cell service: Communication technology remains unreliable throughout the camping areas. Reception varies by provider and specific location, with mountain terrain blocking signals in many spots. Walnut Flats reports: "There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage."
Seasonal campground closures: Operating schedules vary by location. While some state park campgrounds remain open year-round, facilities like restrooms may close seasonally. One camper at Camp Creek noted: "We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation safety: The New River features rocky areas requiring caution. "The water ranges in depth, but nothing deeper than waste deep really. It's rocky and slippery so it's dangerous and not very family friendly. Especially for young children and older people," warns one visitor to New River Junction.
State park amenities: Pipestem Resort State Park offers numerous family activities. "If you're looking for a great game park with lots of activities for kids/families, you can't go wrong with Pipestem. Amenities include horseback riding, two pools, an r/c car track, aerial tram rides, and disc golf," recommends one visitor. The diverse recreation options make it suitable for multi-day stays.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping at Walnut Flats provides cost-effective family accommodations. "Quiet place with plenty of firewood on the ground. Occasional people driving through but a great experience!" notes a camper. The Appalachian Trail crosses nearby, offering hiking opportunities without additional fees.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and terrain: At Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, accessibility varies based on RV size. "We're a triple axl so we had to take it nice and slow getting there with the road and even navigating the property but it was fine," reports one RV owner. Most developed campgrounds can accommodate large rigs but require careful driving.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites exist but remain limited in the region. At Pipestem Resort State Park, site numbering correlates to hookup options: "There's 82 sites in the campground. 1-31 have full hookup, 32-49 electric only, 50-82 water & electric." Advance reservations for full hookup sites are recommended during peak season.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Pipestem, "Watch the site descriptions for the incline. The water/electric sites surround a large field. These sites tend to be sunny. 1-49 are in the woods. The sites seem small, but the perimeter sites face the woods." Researching site specifics before arrival helps avoid setup difficulties.
Traveler
