Royal Oak - Hungry Mother State Park

Breaks Interstate Park

Pound River Area

Riverside Campground

Cavitts Creek Park

## Overview

Relax at this popular, yet peaceful recreation area beside Beartree Lake complete with campsites, a picnic area, nearby trails and a scenic lake. Campsites are popular with tent campers since there are no hookups, but RVs are welcome and easily accommodated. Group sites are available with reservations.

## Recreation

The campground offers two fishing piers, and smallmouth bass, sunfish, rainbow and brown trout are all possible catches.  
  
  
The Beartree Lake Trail, which circles the lake, is excellent for hiking. Half of the trail is paved for an easier walk.   
 

## Facilities

Tent and RV campers are welcome. Drinking water and a water fill-up station are provided. A dump station is located on the left side of the road before the contact station as you enter the campground. Each site has a grill and picnic table, and most are secluded from other sites. The group picnic shelter accommodates 50 guests and most group sites fit 24 guests. (Group sites are closed for the 2021 season.)

## Natural Features

The campground is located in diverse vegetation, and Beartree Lake is surrounded by dense trees that meet the shoreline.   
  
The Mount Rogers Scenic Byway passes near the campground, highlighting the impressive valleys, mountains, forests and rural countrysides of western Virginia. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Appalachian Trail, which extends more than 2,175 miles throughout the Appalachian Mountains and across 14 states, is accessible nearby.

Beartree Recreation Area

Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground

This is the HEADLINE

Northeastern

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

Are you planning an RV camping trip to Virginia? We've got you covered. Find the best information on RV camping in Virginia, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your RVing experience. Search nearby RV campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Virginia

The Best RV Camping in Virginia

If you're looking for a place to park your RV near Gardner, look no further. Finding a place to camp in Virginia with your RV is easier than ever. Each RV campsite offers quick access to one or more of Gardner's most popular destinations.

Gardner

The Best RV Camping Near Gardner, Virginia

Thunder River Outdoor Recreation and Campground is located along the Russell Fork River in what is known locally as the “Splashdam” area in Haysi, VA. The property was once home to a thriving coal community until a flood in 1957. After that it served as the site for a Clinchfield Coal Company “tipple” for several years. More recently the property was abandoned and had become overgrown and pretty much uninhabitable. The site, now owned by the Hill family has undergone a transformation to become a destination for camping and outdoor recreation.

The location beside the river offers access for fishing, kayaking/canoeing/tubing, swimming and picnicking in a private setting. During the month of October, with the release of water from the John Flannagan Dam, Dickenson County and the Russell Fork become a destination for white water rafters.

The property is also on an ATV route with access to the Haysi Ridgeview Trailhead approximately one mile away. The Haysi Ridgeview Trail is part of the Spearhead Trail system which in connection with the Coal Canyon trail offers approximately 200 miles of trails (connects to the town of Grundy and the Breaks Park).

Thunder River Campground

Camp Burson Camping - This campground is 1 mile before the park's main entrance.

Camp Burson guests check-in at the Camp Burson office, open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends through October. Guests can check-in at the Discovery Center outside of Memorial Day through Labor Day. Camp Burson guests will need to drive or hike to the park's main gate to gain access to all other amenities at the park - swimming, concessions, gift shops, cabins, other campgrounds, Hemlock Haven, etc. (Carefully read the info above regarding Camp Burson sites.)

Burson EWS (30 electric, water and sewer hookup sites in Camp Burson only, and approximately 1.5 miles from other Hungry Mother campgrounds) - Various equipment, electric, water, sewer hookups; tents, pop-ups and RVs, most sites will hold 25 to 35 feet, but larger sites are available; back-in sites and limited pull-through sites; accept outlets for 20, 30 and 50-amp current. Sites are on gravel; tent campers should bring an air mattress. Tents are not allowed to be set up on the grass. Equipment must be inside the marked site borders. Please double-check the site length when making a reservation to ensure the site will hold the camping unit.

Burson E/W (20 electric and water hookup sites, no sewer, and approximately 1.5 miles from other Hungry Mother campgrounds) – Various equipment; electric and water, no sewer; tents, pop-ups and RVs, most sites will hold 25 to 35 feet, but larger sites are available; back-in sites and limited pull-through sites; accept outlets for 20, 30, and 50-amp current. Sites are on gravel; tent campers should bring an air mattress. Tents are not allowed to be set up on the grass. Equipment must be inside the marked site borders. Please double-check the site length when making a reservation to ensure the site will hold the camping unit.

Total campsites: 80 total in the park; 50 of which are in Camp Burson

Camping is available year-round in the Camp Burson campground.

Camp Burson - Hungry Mother State Park

The campground has 10 single campsites, including two double sites within Backbone Rock Campground. The campground has flush toilets. Each site contains a table, fire ring and lantern holder. The pavilions at Backbone Rock Recreation Area are popular locations for family reunions, weddings and other types of group gatherings. The two pavilions are in distinctly separate areas. Pavilion #1 is larger and adjacent to a large field, Beaverdam Creek and large parking area. Pavilion #2 is in a more secluded setting down old stone steps and along Beaverdam Creek. Natural Features: Backbone Rock Recreation Area is located along Beaverdam Creek in northern Johnson County. Backbone Rock gets its name from a spur ridge on Holston Mountain that ends abruptly at a bend in Beaverdam Creek. A tunnel was drilled through the rock in 1901 to allow railroad access between Shady Valley and Damascus, VA. Motorists pass through what is locally known as "The shortest tunnel in the world" as they travel along TN 133. Recreation: There is a trail that will take you to the top of Backbone Rock, following a stone-step wooded path. The trail crosses the rock and leads to Beaverdam Creek or Backbone Rock Falls. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail adjoins Backbone Rock Trail. Beaverdam Creek is known for its excellent fishing. Facilities: There is a CCC-era pavilion at each site with picnic tables and grills. The larger pavilion, Pavilion #1, includes a stone fireplace and four large picnic tables with additional tables and grills nearby. Vault toilets are located within the parking area. Pavilion #2 also has an original stone fireplace, four tables and nearby grills and additional tables. Parking and a vault toilet are located across the street from the picnic area. Nearby Attractions: Damascus, Virginia is five miles north of Backbone Rock for any in-town needs.

Backbone Rock Recreation Area Pavilions and Campground

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay are some of the best camping locations in Virginia. Near Virginia Beach, VA, camping by the beach gives you easy access to water activities that include catching a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. The oceanside city is the ideal place to gather any supplies you need before heading to your campsite. Campgrounds by Fort Story let campers walk, boat, or drive up to campsites. RVers will also find all of the necessary amenities for their vehicles. Spend some time on the beach, tour the fort, and don’t forget to stop by the historic lighthouse.

Virginia Beach

The Best Virginia Beach Camping | Virginia Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Virginia Beach, VA has a lot to offer. Virginia Beach is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Virginia Beach, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Virginia Beach, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Norfolk. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norfolk camping trip.

Norfolk

The Best Camping Near Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Chesapeake, VA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Chesapeake

The Best Camping Near Chesapeake, Virginia

Arlington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Virginia

Richmond is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Richmond is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Richmond camping trip.

Richmond

The Best Camping Near Richmond, Virginia

Newport News is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Newport News and user-submitted reviews.

Newport News

The Best Camping Near Newport News, Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Alexandria, VA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alexandria. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Alexandria, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Alexandria

The Best Camping Near Alexandria, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Alexandria. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alexandria camping trip.

Join the fun near Blue Ridge Parkway. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Best Camping Near Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia sits Shenandoah National Park. This pocket of Virginia holds some of the best camping and nature viewing in the state. This is an outdoor paradise filled with scenic trails for campers and thru-hikers alike.

Shenandoah National Park has five established campgrounds, which open in early spring and close in late fall. Only the Matthews Arm and Big Meadows campground have RV accommodations available, and all campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance. In the off-season, the best camping near Shenandoah National Park is in the nearby Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where you can disperse camp for free. If you want to stay in the main city, choose Harrisonburg, VA.

Shenandoah National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Shenandoah National Park, VA has a lot to offer. Shenandoah National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shenandoah National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Prince William Forest Park, VA? Prince William Forest Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Prince William Forest Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Prince William Forest Park

The Best Camping Near Prince William Forest Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are George Washington & Jefferson National Forest campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—George Washington Memorial Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The Best Camping Near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

The Best Camping Near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia

Join the fun near Alabama River Lakes. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alabama River Lakes. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alabama River Lakes camping trip.

Alabama River Lakes

The Best Camping Near Alabama River Lakes, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Proctor Lake, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Proctor Lake and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping in Gardner, Virginia

Top Gardner Campgrounds

Riverside Campground

Cavitts Creek Park

Royal Oak - Hungry Mother State Park

Beartree Recreation Area

Thunder River Campground

Camp Burson - Hungry Mother State Park

Breaks Interstate Park

Backbone Rock Recreation Area Pavilions and Campground

Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground

Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

Browse By Type

Browse Gardner Walk-In

Royal Oak - Hungry Mother State Park

Breaks Interstate Park

Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground

Browse Gardner Hike-In

Beartree Recreation Area

Breaks Interstate Park

Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

Browse Gardner Drive-In

Riverside Campground

Cavitts Creek Park

Royal Oak - Hungry Mother State Park

Browse Gardner Boat-In

Royal Oak - Hungry Mother State Park

Breaks Interstate Park

Pound River Area

Get the App

See What We’re Up To