Mountain camping in southwestern Virginia ranges from secluded forest sites to developed RV parks with full hookups. The surrounding area sits at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with mild summers and cold winters. Cell service throughout the region varies significantly, with stronger coverage near Interstate 81 and weaker signals in mountain valleys.
What to do
Biking on trails: The New River Trail connects directly to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, making it ideal for cyclists. "We rode the first 6 miles (and back) of the New River Trail to the train trestle and through the tunnel, just beyond. Easy ride with 2% grade," notes Jennifer K. The trail extends 58 miles total and can be accessed just two blocks from the campground.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for anglers. "Area for people to swim in the river or fish," writes Billy C. about Army Camp. The New River supports multiple game fish species and offers both wade and boat fishing opportunities throughout the camping season.
Disc golf courses: Some rv sites near Narrows, Virginia include recreational facilities on-site. "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!" explains Stafford W. about Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground.
What campers like
Rural mountain views: The rolling hills provide scenic backdrops at several campgrounds. "Amazingly beautiful! We were on top of a hill with other RV's with gorgeous views and sunsets. The grounds were very well kept and mowed," writes Joan about Chantilly Farm. These elevated sites typically offer better cell service than valley locations.
Stream-side camping: Water features enhance many camping experiences near Narrows. "This is a campground located in a tiny valley between two small hills/mountainsides... The stream runs below the campsites. Each site is a pull-thru and is in the form of a crescent, so everyone's door faces the stream," describes Martha S. about Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Heated pools: Several rv campgrounds near Narrows maintain swimming pools for summer use. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, "There is a very clean pool, but it was not open," notes Cat R. The swimming season typically runs from late May through early September, depending on weather conditions.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast," warns Casey L. about Shady Rest RV Park.
Water pressure issues: Water systems can be inconsistent at certain locations. "Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes but the pressure was adequate for making coffee, brushing our teeth and filling the water bowls for the dogs," reports Sherri J.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers can find no-cost sites. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," shares Rachel S. about Army Camp in New River Gorge National Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RV's/campers," recommends Melinda J. about Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Rural settings offer nature education chances. "You are surrounded by farm land on two sides and it was relaxing watching the cows and sheep graze on the hillsides. There's a large pond stocked with koi fish," notes Nancy C. about Fort Chiswell RV Park.
Consider site spacing: Some parks offer more privacy than others. "Like a lot of private RV parks, the sites tend to be very close to each other. Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds," observes Eric H. when reviewing a campground near Narrows.
Tips from RVers
Check reservation systems: Reservation procedures vary widely between parks. "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine," explains Whistle P. about Summer Wind RV Park.
Site leveling needs: Terrain affects parking ease. "Sites are long but pretty close together. Wifi didn't work, we're used to that at public places. 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," shares Heather H.
Internet connectivity options: Signal quality differs dramatically by location. "Starlink access was excellent as there is not a single tree to obstruct the view! The views are nice, the bathrooms were clean and all of the amenities worked normal," reports Whistle P. about Summer Wind RV Park, highlighting the benefit of open sites for satellite internet users.
