Campers near Glen Lyn, Virginia can access multiple established campgrounds within a 40-mile radius. The region features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions across locations. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity compared to coastal Virginia areas.
What to do
Bike the New River Trail: Access the 57-mile New River Trail from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, located about 35 miles from Glen Lyn. "The start of the trail is less than 1/2 mile from the campground and travels along the New River for miles. It is also possible to reach Galax by bike along a spur - about 11 miles from the campground," notes Cindy B.
Fish for variety: Fish multiple species at Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve where river access is excellent. "You can hear the powerful drone of the New River never subsides," reports Dave V. The campground provides direct river access for anglers seeking smallmouth bass and other species.
Frisbee golf and outdoor games: Try the 9-hole disc golf course at Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue. "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!" mentions Stafford W. The venue also offers cornhole for those seeking casual recreation.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sites at Pipestem RV Park & Campground offer good separation. "Very clean and spacious. This is my third review of The WV Pipestem state park campground. There has been a lot of nice upgrades to the grounds and facilities as well as things to do at pipestem since my last review a few years ago," notes Andrew S.
Clean facilities: Fort Chiswell RV Park maintains clean amenities for guests. "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," says Terry A. The park also offers cable TV and WiFi.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds feature opportunities to view local wildlife. "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," Nancy C. reports about Fort Chiswell RV Park. Many campers mention deer sightings in early mornings across various locations.
What you should know
Free camping options: Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Hard to beat a free campsite right on the river. Got lucky to find a site here after trying both Grandview Sandbar and Glade's Creek on the other side of the road," Tucker B. notes. The free campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Water availability varies: Several campgrounds lack running water. "Note: vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River...which I wouldn't recommend," cautions Dave V. about Army Camp.
Seasonal closures: Some RV campgrounds near Glen Lyn operate with limited schedules. Summer Wind RV Park runs "May 1 to Oct 15" according to their listing information, requiring advance planning for off-season travelers. Year-round options include Fort Chiswell RV Park and Shady Rest RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Pipestem RV Park & Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," shares Molly F. These water features provide excellent entertainment for children during hot summer months.
Pool access: Some RV campgrounds near Glen Lyn feature swimming pools for family enjoyment. "The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms..." writes Noel L. about Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
Wildlife cautions: Secure food from wildlife, particularly at night. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must," warns Andrew S. about camping at Pipestem RV Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Quiet camping locations: RVers seeking peace should consider campgrounds away from major highways. "Located not too far from I-81, easy to get to. This CG does a lot of overnight business, there is a parade of campers arriving from mid afternoon to after dark," notes Michael H. about Fort Chiswell RV Park, which manages to block most highway noise despite proximity.
Site selection for level parking: Choose sites carefully based on leveling needs. "Sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient," explains Michael H. regarding Fort Chiswell RV Park. For RVers with larger rigs, several parks offer pull-through sites that minimize setup challenges.
Arrival timing: Arrive during daylight hours at campgrounds with challenging access roads. "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," mentions Heather H. about navigating to Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
