Dispersed camping near Pulaski, Virginia offers access to diverse terrain ranging from the New River Valley to the nearby Jefferson National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,900-3,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Cell service becomes increasingly limited as campers venture into more remote locations west of town, with some campgrounds having no connectivity at all.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Gatewood Park, campers can enjoy shoreline fishing from waterfront sites. "A great out of the way location. A bit of a drive in but worth the travel. Extremely clean and well maintained facility. Peaceful and level spots," notes Dane R.
Paddling options: The New River provides excellent kayaking and canoeing conditions for various skill levels. At New River Junction Campground, "You can rent a inner tub or canoe and float down River to a shuttle bus that brings you back to the campgrounds," according to Robert J.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal populations including deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species. "We've stayed here twice now, and plan on staying again whenever we're passing through," says Nora M. about Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground, adding that the location's remoteness contributes to wildlife sightings.
What campers like
Natural water features: The New River and Claytor Lake provide swimming opportunities during warmer months. A camper at Claytor Lake State Park Campground shared, "I love this park! Plenty of tent and RV sites. 4 yurts available in nice wooded area. Lake beach passes included in price. Boat rentals. Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers."
Peaceful locations: Many campers value quieter settings away from highway noise. At Walnut Flats, a free dispersed camping area, a visitor noted, "This is a wonderful spot. It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didnt smell."
Trail accessibility: Several campgrounds connect directly to hiking and biking trails. "Wonderful trails," reports John R. about Claytor Lake State Park, while another camper mentions, "Did some Jeep camping here in November. Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Hiking trails all accessible from the camp areas."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds near rail lines experience significant noise disruption. At New River Junction Campground, a camper warned, "THE TRAINS: HOLY HELL. The trains alone are reason enough not to camp here. Especially with a tent. Five trains between midnight and 5am. Every one of them blew the horn well past the crossing."
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cell service. A Walnut Flats visitor reported, "There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage."
Seasonal closures: Many facilities close or reduce services during winter months. "We stayed for three nights in October," notes a Millrace Campground — New River Trail State Park visitor, adding that fall is an ideal time for experiencing the area's changing foliage and more moderate temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: During summer, look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. Michelle W. from Claytor Lake State Park Campground shares, "Lake beach passes included in price (when not under Covid restrictions). Boat rentals. Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers."
Activity planning: Some parks offer organized programs for children. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks," notes Angela J. about Claytor Lake, adding "Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun."
Terrain considerations: Assess campgrounds for child-friendly features. A Wytheville KOA visitor remarked, "It seems like a great place for kids with a pool with a waterslide," while another mentioned "This campground is terrific! our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!"
Tips from RVers
Site access: Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region. One camper at Pioneer Village noted, "The sites are fairly close together but we didn't have neighbors on either side so we didn't feel cramped. Not all sites are level and would have been a problem for us, but fortunately, ours was level."
Interstate proximity: Some campgrounds offer convenient highway access but with associated noise. A visitor shared, "The campground is very, very close to I-81 so you do here the traffic. A lot. If you are a light sleeper you may have issues with the traffic noise."
Utility hookups: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, a camper reported, "Sites are a good size and doesn't feel cramped. The store is stocked with essentials and staff is friendly," and another mentioned, "All pull thru, full hookup, and level sites."
