Mountain valley campsites near Appalachia, Virginia range from 1,500 to 2,700 feet elevation, with temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area follow the region's natural topography, resulting in sites with varying degrees of shade and protection from mountain breezes. Cell service can vary dramatically between locations due to the mountainous terrain.
What to do
Hiking the Greenbelt Trail: From Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground, access the town walking trail via their footbridge. "There's a great walking trail that runs right by. The green belt is next to the camp ground within walking distance," notes Jason W. The trail connects to town attractions and follows the South Fork Powell River.
Primitive camping experience: At Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping, you'll find five primitive sites with tent pads and basic amenities. "Booked a 3 night stay over the weekend and had the primitive camping area to ourselves. 5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box," writes Sarah C. The sites include a large communal fire pit and a covered shelter with outlets for charging devices.
Swimming pool access: Leeman Field Park includes swimming pool admission with camping fees. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool. Admission to the pool is included in campground fees," explains Julie in her review of the facilities.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campsites at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground are situated along the South Fork Powell River. "Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground," reports Lauren J. The location provides easy access to both water views and the connecting greenway path.
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses receive frequent praise from visitors. "The bath house was clean and decorated very nice. Looks like it has been freshly painted," mentions Mike in his review of Jessie Lea. Similarly at Natural Tunnel State Park, Roland R. notes, "Nice, clean campground. Used the primitive camping, everything was well taken care of."
Community pavilions: Several RV parks near Appalachia offer covered gathering spaces. "At the entrance, there is an amazing covered shelter with picnic tables, rocking chairs and grills," writes Charlene about Lakeview RV Resort. The park is "well maintained and has friendly staff" according to Doreen M.
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain driving requires careful navigation for larger vehicles. "The roads to this amazing State Park are two lane and twisting," shares one camper about Natural Tunnel State Park. At Rocky Top Campground, Debbie O. warns, "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if you're not a seasoned driver."
Water access points: Several campgrounds feature creek or river access, though availability can depend on conditions. At Jessie Lea, one visitor noted, "We had two Jeeps with roof top tents, and while this is an RV Park, he has a few seasonal sites near the creek open. If the water is high, the sites aren't available."
Seasonal availability: While Natural Tunnel State Park operates year-round, some amenities have limited schedules. One camper mentioned, "The one thing I was really looking forward to (the chairlift) is only open on weekends." Check with individual parks for current operating schedules before planning activities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Leeman Field Park offers multiple playgrounds adjacent to camping areas. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool, tennis courts, and disc golf course," reports Julie, making it ideal for families with children of various ages.
Educational opportunities: Natural Tunnel State Park provides learning experiences for children. Myron C. notes, "The historical background of the state park is varied and extensive, so there are a lot of things to see within the park and surrounding the park." Rangers frequently conduct educational programs suitable for school-age children.
ATV trail access: Some campgrounds provide maps for nearby off-road trails. "Maps are available for ATV trails that can be accessed from campground also," mentions a reviewer about Leeman Field Park, offering recreation options for families with older children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend asking about choosing your own site when possible. "The owner allowed us to choose our site, and after having driven through a full day of traffic, we chose the easiest to pull into," shares a camper at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground. Pull-through sites are available at several locations.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks when camping in RV campgrounds near Appalachia, Virginia. The natural mountain terrain means many sites have slight inclines. Rocky Top Campground and other mountain locations require proper equipment for stabilizing larger rigs.
Hookup variations: The amp service varies between parks, with most offering multiple options. At Around Pond RV Park, a reviewer notes, "Pull thrus 15-20-30-50 amp" are available with rates ranging from $40-$200 depending on length of stay and hookup requirements.
