198 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Glade Spring, Virginia area features a diverse range of camping opportunities with both established campgrounds and dispersed options throughout the Jefferson and Washington National Forests. Royal Oak Campground at Hungry Mother State Park offers tent and RV sites with full hookups alongside cabin and yurt accommodations, while the more primitive dispersed sites in Washington & Jefferson National Forest provide free camping options for those seeking a more rustic experience. Campers can also find well-appointed facilities at Hurricane Campground and Grindstone Recreation Area, both within 25 miles of Glade Spring, offering access to regional attractions like the Virginia Creeper Trail and Mount Rogers.
Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with most forest service sites closing between late October and mid-April. "The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path," noted one visitor who stayed at a forest service site. Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with some dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles or careful navigation on unpaved forest roads. Cell service is notably limited in the mountainous terrain, especially in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, where campers should plan to be offline during their stay. Established campgrounds like Hungry Mother State Park provide more reliable amenities, including electric hookups, showers, and drinking water year-round.
Waterfront camping opportunities receive particular praise from visitors to the region. One camper described their forest service site as having "a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease." Several campgrounds feature creek or lakeside sites that provide both scenic views and the practical benefit of water access. Hikers appreciate the proximity to notable trails, including the Appalachian Trail and Mount Rogers paths. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with Grayson Highlands State Park's wild ponies being a particular highlight for many visitors. Campers consistently mention the peaceful mountain setting as a primary draw, though several reviewers note that some dispersed areas suffer from occasional trash problems and advise fellow campers to practice Leave No Trace principles.
"We stayed here for an overnight stop on our road trip through Virginia, and it was lovely!"
"Hungry Mother State Park, just a short drive off I-81 in southwestern Virginia, is an easily accessible gem offering modern cabins, yurts, and campgrounds equipped for tents or RVs, with limitless activities"
from $27 / night
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"Doesn’t get much more relaxing, electric, water hook-ups and a short drive to downtown Damascus VA.. AT, Virginia Creeper, White Top Mountain and Mount Rogers all near by."
"We like to hike and there are TONS of trails in this area. One trail leaves directly from the campground and will bring you to the top of Mt. Rogers, also intersecting with the Appalachian Trail."
from $24 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, this campground is close to enough activities to fill a whole week of outdoor fun!"
"Large secluded campsites surrounded by rhododendron bushes with a mountain spring creek meandering through the campgrounds."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"Amazing little campground in the heart of Mount Rogers recreational area in Western Virginia. Wonderful fall colors crisp, clean, mountain air was totally the best!"
"This camp ground is located well off any main roads under a nice quiet canopy of Hemlocks and Laurel trees. Easy walking distance to several well maintained and very clean outhouses."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."
"Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night."
"This was our first visit to a Virginia State Park and we were impressed."
"Has multiple pull through sites, bath house and laundry close by. We were there during off season so some of the park was closed and they collected payment through honor system."
from $37 - $41 / night
Check Availability"30 minute drive to Grayson Highlands"
"They just reworked the rd so it was an easy drive in our class c rv"
"We were in Damascus for the Appalachian Trail Days Festival and needed an RV spot but didn’t think we could get one because we were so late in looking for one."
"This was a good spot right on the Laurel Creek and the Creeper Trail. Walk to town for restaurants and bike/outdoor shops and a convenience store. Grocery store is a little further away."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"Just across the Virginia state line, this national forest offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Beaver Dam Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant."
"Stayed in Campsite #1 Even though it is within view of the road, the running water sound of the creek behind us lulled us to sleep."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability
ScoutWe arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
GuideIt was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
GuideDoe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
TravelerThe lake is so beautiful if you catch it at the right time of day it’s like l looking into a mirror dimension because it’s so clear.
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!
ScoutThe owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
TravelerBeautiful scenery right next to the Russell Fork River! A solid 5 stars for the campground & staff. You don’t have to worry about the fun police monitoring your every action. Very budget friendly, they have the cheapest rates that I could find around the area. It’s really laidback & peaceful. You can sit at camp & relax while you drink your favorite beverage, enjoy your favorite smoke, just keep it to yourself & don’t raise hell. Or you could hit the Russell Fork for some awesome river activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, etc. At check-in you get the free Wi-Fi password & a bundle of wood for your fire pit. It’s a great getaway & I thoroughly enjoyed my stay & look forward to coming back. The only downside is that they need more shade options for the back tent sites to beat the summer heat. I highly recommend Thunder River Campground!!⛺️
ScoutThis campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
TravelerPlace seams tidy. Spots are nicely appointed, in that they are slightly separated.
Camp sites near Glade Spring, Virginia sit within the scenic Appalachian range at elevations typically between 2,000-5,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and dropping to the low 60s at night, making camping comfortable even in mid-summer. Most forest service roads leading to dispersed sites remain unpaved with varying conditions that can deteriorate after heavy rainfall.
Bike the Virginia Creeper Trail: Located just minutes from Grindstone Recreation Area, this popular trail offers 34 miles of converted railroad trail. "Make this trip twice a year would add a third if time allowed. AT, Virginia Creeper, White Top Mountain and Mount Rogers all near by," notes one visitor who considers Grindstone among their favorite places.
Fish in mountain streams: Multiple camping areas offer direct access to stocked trout waters. At Hurricane Campground, you'll find "a beautiful campground located alongside a stream with trout fishing," according to one camper who visited in spring 2021.
Sunrise viewpoints: Whitetop Mountain provides exceptional vantage points for early risers. "I had my best views to in the field to the side of the road toward the picnic & homestead area," reports a camper who visited Grayson Highlands after a 25-year absence, noting how the higher elevation makes Mt. Rogers more accessible than from the valley.
Forest privacy: The natural growth between sites at Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground creates secluded camping areas. "The sites were built in a forest of rhododendron and there is so much privacy compared to most other campgrounds. As a result, it seems quieter," explains one regular visitor who has camped there for over 25 years.
Wooden tent platforms: At Grayson Highlands State Park's Hickory Ridge Campground, many sites feature elevated platforms. "All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole," writes a camper who particularly appreciated this thoughtful design.
Mountain swimming holes: The creek access at Backbone Rock Recreation Area provides natural water features. "Beaver Dam Creek runs behind the campsite and is absolutely gorgeous with clear water, fish, and beautiful rhododendrons and trees that keep the area shaded," shared one visitor who camped with small children at site #5.
Seasonal closures: Most national forest campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Beartree Campground only operates "April 15 to October 31," while Hurricane Campground faced opening delays in 2021 "because of difficulty getting a campground host."
Variable road conditions: Access to dispersed camping spots often requires preparation. When visiting Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, one camper advised that a vehicle "larger than 20 feet as the potholed road and the tight turns to get up to the camp from the road would be tough. 4WD highly recommended, especially in mud season or winter."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically by location. At Grindstone Recreation Area, a reviewer noted there is "no cell phone service," making it ideal "if you want to escape it all." Similarly, another camper mentioned "There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high."
Sites with play areas: Some campgrounds include designated recreation spaces. Hungry Mother State Park has "a nice area for a picnic with swings and other things for kids," which complemented their "clean" bathroom facilities according to a family that camped there in June 2018.
Creek play spots: Look for shallow water access at Camp Burson near creek-side sites. "The creek was right next to our site, and the boys enjoyed playing in it," shared a camper who appreciated that their site was "very large and well situated" though "not shaded or private."
Animal viewing opportunities: Beyond the popular ponies, wildlife sightings are common. "We saw several deer, some turkey but no bears," reported a visitor at Grayson Highlands, though they still advised awareness when moving around the campground.
Electric hookup locations: The positioning of utilities varies by campsite. At Camp Burson, one RVer noted their site "was level" and "water and electric were well-placed" at site #43, which was "on the end of a row with our patio facing a hillside next to a stream."
Tree clearance concerns: Some sites have overhanging branches that can damage tall vehicles. At Hungry Mother State Park's Burston Campground, a visitor mentioned "the only problem we had were that some of the trees need to be trimmed back and scratched the upper sides of our coach."
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer easier access sites. Laurel Creek RV Park in Damascus provides convenient camping "directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Glade Spring, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Glade Spring, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 198 campgrounds and RV parks near Glade Spring, VA and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Glade Spring, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Glade Spring, VA is Royal Oak Campground — Hungry Mother State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 42 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Glade Spring, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Glade Spring, VA.
What parks are near Glade Spring, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Glade Spring, VA that allow camping, notably Blue Ridge Parkway and John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir.
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