195 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Several state parks within an hour of Galax make good camping bases for exploring southwestern Virginia. Hungry Mother State Park has well-maintained sites with cabins and yurts for those who don't want to pitch tents. Grayson Highlands State Park, home to the area's famous wild ponies, combines camping with great hiking and mountain views. Both parks require careful food storage since bears and other wildlife are common in the area. The camping areas typically have enough trees between sites to give campers some privacy. At Hungry Mother, the campsites have enough room for larger tents or RVs without feeling cramped. Grayson Highlands has a mix of open and wooded sites, so you can choose based on whether you want sunshine or shade. Weather varies significantly by season - summer days can hit the 80s while winter nights often drop below freezing. Check fire restrictions before your trip, as they change based on conditions. The parks also have specific rules about keeping distance from the wild ponies and other animals.
"This KOA is located in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge close to Galax, home of the annual Fiddlers Convention."
"Wonderful campground close to exit of I77. Old growth canopy of trees provide ample shade. Pool was nice. Restroom/Showers were wonderful and clean, also ample water pressure."
"The site also had a huge area for the picnic table and the fire ring is far away from your camper. There was a huge grassy area behind our site with a creek, lots of space for our dog."
"So we did not hike all the trails, but the one's we did were stunning and memorable. The campgrounds are super clean and neat, the showerhouse/bathroom a positive too."
from $17 - $72 / night
Check Availability"Located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway the views are amazing. You have access to several small towns and state parks with plenty of trials and things to see. "
"Many hiking trails . Very friendly owners. Will stay here again. Close to I77."
from $30 - $78 / night
Check Availability"Sites are close to level. Nothing severe at all. All sited are full hookups. A single washer and dryer available onsite. Great wifi and cable hookups. 2 blocks from New River Rails to Trails."
"Tom was really communicative throughout and with the short notice of the reservation…he even helped with suggestions of nearby groceries in Galax and directions to the RV site."
"Easy exit off Rt 81, with several truck stops/gas stations at the exit to fill up. The roads are a bit hilly going into the campground, but we didn’t experience any issues."
"We stayed here for 1 night, to break up an 8-hour drive home from points south. The facility is very well maintained, the staff is very friendly and the location was convenient (1 mile off of 81)."
from $50 - $170 / night
Check Availability"Some spots are near I74 but most are not. Large lake and history here. Close to town to see the local legends hometown."
"Mayberry is conveniently located near the highway. The property is well maintained. The staff is very helpful."
"We rode the Blue Ridge Parkway which is very close by and enjoyed live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center. The cabins are about 30 minutes to Mt. Airy (Mayberry)."
"There is a fire pit within a short walk. Our host JP was always available and helpful. Definitely will be back"
from $169 - $246 / night
Check Availability"While driving out to the monument in his honor I found this site and loved what I saw!"
"Fort Chiswell RV park in Virginia is a very clean park beautiful trees paved driveways and a bathroom that is very clean and at the end of the bathrooms actually have tables at Pavilion They have Wi-Fi"
from $35 - $38 / night
Check Availability"Located in closed factory in the industrial area. Good sized grass sites. Near brewery and town."
"With camping just a moderate day hike away from Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, this campground is a hiker's paradise."
"Campground Review: There are two campgrounds in Grayson Highland SP which is located by The Mouth Of Wilson, VA, near the North Carolina border."
from $27 - $98 / night
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ScoutThis 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.
TravelerBeautiful decor and extremely clean interior. The bed is very comfortable and linens are crisp and inviting. You can tell they don't harsh products because your skin is not itchy. The kitchen accommodations are perfect for a family with refrigerator, microwave and gas grill included with every cabin. The jacuzzi tub is a nice touch. Plenty of towels and even robes to use!
The rocking chairs on the back porch allow you to sip coffee, while watching trout swim in Chestnut Creek. The exteriors are clean as well. The grounds are natural and well maintained. There is also a nice common area with chairs and a firepit with wood to use.
The staff was pleasant and helpful.
We went to the local movie theater and a splash pad and park for the kids in town. The downtown 4th of July parade was wonderful! We rode the Blue Ridge Parkway which is very close by and enjoyed live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center. The cabins are about 30 minutes to Mt. Airy (Mayberry). Local antiques, coffee shops, specialty stores are abundant. Car Shiws on Thursday monthly downtown and BINGO at the Moose Lodge here in Galax is the best which is on Tuesdays. If you are an antique lover or picker don't miss my favorites, many in downtown Galax and a couple coffee shops and make sure you go to "Nest and Hive" in Fancy Gap and "The River House And Home Company" in Hillsville. You won't regret it!
I've been coming here for 20 years and will 20 more. The mountains are calling!
ScoutThis is the perfect camp ground whether you’re wanting a quiet spot, or family fun. The grounds are spacious and the sites offer a great variety.
TravelerPlace seams tidy. Spots are nicely appointed, in that they are slightly separated.
ScoutThis is a beautiful park but be aware there is only ONE toilet for a loop of at least 23 tent sites!!! If it's a busy weekend, you'll be miserable.
ScoutBeautiful property right on the river. The host was amazing. Clean port o John- water- river, wonderful owner. Close to town yet quiet. This is my favorite
ScoutThey seem to be doing a lot of upgrades to the campground, and they are much needed to be honest. The arcade is great
TravelerJust arrived, looks great. Opted for a pull thru near the pool.
GuideThis is a nice little campground. They have sites with electricity and water hook-ups, just electric hook-ups and some with out either. The sites are very well maintained and with all of the trees, they feel pretty secluded and spaced out. Highly recommend if you're looking for a nature get away.
Several camping options near Galax, Virginia provide access to outdoor adventures beyond what the nearby state parks offer. This southwestern Virginia region sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,300-3,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates for campers. Winter nights often drop into the 20s while summer daytime temperatures typically reach the upper 70s to mid-80s.
Explore the New River Trail: Located just blocks from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, campers can access nearly 57 miles of converted rail trail. "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.
Visit local music venues: The region sits on the Crooked River Music Trail with regular performances. "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!!" recommends Bran P. about camping near Fries, where music remains an important part of local heritage.
Discover historic sites: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers access to preserved homesteads. "Stone loop mountain trail is incredible! Long and strenuous but all ages were hiking it...homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain," shares Kristi D.
Private sites with natural barriers: Unlike the state parks mentioned in the existing description, some campgrounds offer more seclusion. At Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground, "Sites are level and spaced out for room to open your slide and awning. Picnic tables and fire pits at every site," according to Bill R.
Clean facilities: "The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men' bathroom had two showers," notes David B. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground, highlighting facility standards that remain consistent year-round.
Convenient trail access: Many campers appreciate direct trail connections. "The New River runs through the town adding to the scenic-ness of the town... The start of the trail is less than 1/2 mile from the campground and travels along the New River for miles," explains Cindy B.
Elevation affects temperatures: Hickory Ridge Campground at Grayson Highlands sits at higher elevations. "I was there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," warns Jean C., who experienced "a storm with wild winds and cold" during their spring visit.
Payment policies vary: "We had to have CASH. As Passport America members, the $40 rate was only $20!" shares Ralph L. about Mayberry Campground. Always check payment options before arrival.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have spotty coverage. "For cell phone coverage (Verizon), I had success at the viewpoint on the way up from the entrance," notes one camper at Hickory Ridge.
Seasonal considerations: "The pool was closed when we were there. Staff are helpful. Restrooms are clean. CG has a laundry," reports Michael H. about Fort Chiswell RV Park. Check which amenities remain operational during your planned visit season.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal encounters at Hickory Ridge Campground. "Great hikes close by with sweet wild ponies that let you get close for pictures," says Julianne S., adding that the "bathrooms were clean and there was a nice area for a picnic with swings and other things for kids."
Activity options: Family-friendly campgrounds provide multiple recreation choices. "The Mayberry campground has so much going on, you really don't have to leave camp. Just sit back and relax," explains L T., highlighting how some facilities offer complete vacation experiences.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Wytheville KOA, "The owners ran all the entertainment and were highly visible throughout our stay. I would highly recommend this KOA for family fun!!" raves Lisa T., who appreciated the "arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!"
Site selection strategies: Different RV sites offer varying benefits. "We were in site 10, a back-up site with a slight incline. It was quiet apart from the creaking trees during a windstorm," shares Jean C. at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Navigation challenges: Large rigs require careful campground selection. "My only negative was that 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," cautions Megan B.
Hookup considerations: Water pressure varies between campgrounds. One camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park noted, "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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Galax, VA?
Fries New RiverTrail RV Park stands out for its immaculate grounds, level sites with full hookups, and beautiful landscaping. Each site features a deck, and the park offers amenities like WiFi and cable just blocks from the New River Trail. For those seeking a more natural setting, Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA provides a scenic location in Virginia's Blue Ridge mountains with well-maintained facilities, a pool, and unique sites with private dog runs. Both campgrounds offer excellent access to local attractions including the New River Trail for biking and hiking, and proximity to Galax's famous Fiddlers Convention.
How much does camping cost in the Galax, VA area?
Camping costs in the Galax area vary by amenities and location. Old Cranks Campground and RV Park offers great value with clean facilities at competitive rates, though it lacks picnic tables and fire pits. For more budget-friendly options, Millrace Campground — New River Trail State Park provides primitive camping with pit toilets only. Expect to pay $20-35 for basic sites, $35-50 for partial hookups, and $45-65 for full-service RV sites with amenities like WiFi and cable throughout the region. State parks typically offer the most economical options, while private RV parks with full hookups command premium rates.
Is tent camping available near Galax, Virginia?
Yes, several excellent tent camping options exist near Galax. Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park offers a hiker's paradise with tent sites just a moderate day hike from Mount Rogers, Virginia's highest point. The park provides a true off-the-grid experience with limited cell service. For more dispersed options, Washington & Jefferson National Forest provides primitive tent camping along Bear Creek, with abundant opportunities for hiking, cycling, and fishing. The area connects to popular trails including the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more rustic camping experience.
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