The Glade Spring region sits at elevations of 2,000 to 3,500 feet, creating an ideal camping climate with 15-20 degree cooler summer temperatures compared to lower elevations. Within the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, campgrounds near Glade Spring receive moderate rainfall throughout summer months, creating a rich ecosystem of mixed hardwood forests, rhododendron thickets, and mountain streams. Water temperatures at nearby lake facilities rarely exceed 72°F even in July.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside sites: Hungry Mother State Park offers multiple fishing spots with good trout populations. One visitor noted, "The hike to the pond was a little more strenuous than we anticipated but once you get there, there is a nice creek and we caught a trout in the pond right away." Most fishing areas have accessible shorelines within 200 yards of camping areas.
Backpacking to Mount Rogers: Grindstone provides direct trail access to Mount Rogers. "There is a .6 mile trail nearby (Whispering Waters Trail) which is good for beginners & small kids. There is another trail, Mt. Rogers which is longer (7 miles) from the campsite," explains one reviewer who enjoyed the varying difficulty levels.
Mountain biking nearby: Camp Burson connects to regional cycling routes. "We did some great hikes and walked around the beach area which was very nice. Would love to revisit during warmer months," reported a camper who explored the area during off-season. Bike rentals are available seasonally at the park office.
Creek exploration: Creekside Campground offers direct access to mountain streams. "Loved my site- I'm a tent camper and my tent just fit on the site... I wanted to be by the creek!" shared an enthusiastic camper. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring typically offering the best flow rates.
What campers like
Elevated camping platforms: The tent sites at Hickory Ridge Campground feature unique raised platforms. "Even-numbered hookup sites 60-70 are also right on the meadow with very little shade. All other sites are heavily shaded, although you'll be close to your neighbors," notes one camper. These platforms provide drainage during rain and keep tents elevated from damp ground.
Diverse yurt options: Glamping in Glade Spring, Virginia includes multiple yurt styles across several campgrounds. "There are yurts in Camp Burson and Royal Oak. Don't remember seeing any in Creekside," explains one visitor, highlighting the need to research specific locations when booking luxury tent accommodations.
Clean facilities: "Bathhouse was nice and clean. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," reports a camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp. Most campgrounds in the region maintain bathroom facilities with daily cleaning schedules and weekly deep cleaning.
Quiet forest settings: "Just upgrade the sites. Night woody dark and quit. Kayak put in fishing is good some spots on the water," shared one visitor describing the peaceful environment. The Glade Spring area campgrounds typically enforce quiet hours from 10pm to 6am.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Glamping structures near Glade Spring, Virginia book quickly, especially during peak season. "We stayed here on a week day after Labor Day and the campground was sparsely occupied. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," advises one experienced camper.
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer. "The weather was great for the first few days of our visit so we made the most of being outside and exploring the park," notes one RVer, suggesting visitors pack for temperature swings of up to 30 degrees in a single day.
Service limitations: Cell coverage and utilities vary widely. "Bring ur own Wi-Fi as there is No cell coverage and the Wi-Fi does not work," warns one Creekside Campground visitor. Most glamping structures offer electric outlets, but power capacity is typically limited to 15 amps.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access. "The steep road to the campground is also the AT, so it's not unusual to see through-hikers making their way," explains a camper at Hurricane Campground. Many forest service roads become difficult after heavy rain.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: "The lake is beautiful and has boat rentals and a swimming beach! Great place to kayak!" shares one family about Hungry Mother State Park. Swimming areas typically include roped boundaries and are monitored during summer weekends.
Kid-friendly trails: "Plenty to keep kids and adults alike entertained, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area," notes one visitor. Most parks offer ranger-led programs for children on weekends.
Site selection for children: Choose sites away from water when camping with small children. "There are several pull through options, I opted for a back in. The lay out of the park is very linear and the 'corners' are completely used with up to three sites," explains one camper discussing the importance of site location.
Camping education opportunities: "There are campfire get togethers too," mentions one reviewer about structured campground activities. Most state parks in the region offer junior ranger programs during summer months, teaching wilderness skills, biology, and conservation.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: "If you have a big RV you can not camp in the Creekside area. You will have to go to Burson which is outside the 'camping area'," advises one RVer about size restrictions at luxury camping sites near Glade Spring.
Hookup availability: "The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole," notes one camper. Most RV sites at state parks offer water and electric, while full hookup sites with sewer connections are more limited.
Leveling challenges: "Our site (#43) was on the end of a row with our patio facing a hillside next to a stream that made for a very pleasant rushing water sound," shares an RVer, highlighting the importance of leveling equipment on mountain sites that often have 3-5% grades.
Seasonal restrictions: "The campsites in this section are tent only and very nice and have platforms. Rv sites are crowded," mentions one reviewer about seasonal limitations. Some campgrounds close RV loops during winter months or limit water availability from November to March.
