RV camping near Ivanhoe, Virginia offers options along the New River watershed at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 feet above sea level. The area's proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to scenic camping spots with varying cellular connectivity depending on terrain position. Summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas, making it a popular destination during July and August.
What to do
Bike the New River Trail: Located one block from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, the trail extends nearly 57 miles. "We rode 15 miles out and 15 back to campsite. The trail is almost 57 miles in length," notes one visitor who enjoyed direct access from their campsite.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide riverside locations with fish stocking. "There's a little ice cream shop and a diner close by. One thing to note is that they don't accept credit cards," mentions a visitor about local amenities near fishing spots.
Disc golf courses: Play the 9-hole course at Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" according to a recent reviewer who appreciated this activity option during their stay.
Local music heritage: Experience Appalachian music traditions at community gatherings. "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!! Fries is a very small town on the 'Crooked River Music Trail' and music is an important part of their heritage," shares one enthusiastic camper.
What campers like
Full hookups with level sites: Campers appreciate well-maintained utility connections. "All sited are full hookups. A single washer and dryer available onsite. Great wifi and cable hookups," notes a reviewer at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, highlighting practical amenities.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between locations. A visitor to Fort Chiswell RV Park reported, "Very relaxing. Great to take a couple days relaxing out of the hurry of city life. There is plenty of room to walk your pet and some of the sites provide shaded areas."
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds in the area operate throughout winter. "The grounds are well-kept. There is a pool that hadn't opened yet. The public bathrooms and showers were clean, but really could use some upgrades," commented one off-season visitor about facility maintenance standards.
Quiet camping locations: Despite highway proximity, mountain terrain often blocks road noise. "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," noted one traveler about traffic patterns.
What you should know
Access road challenges: Mountain campgrounds require careful driving. "The roads were windy and a tad narrow but definitely do-able as long as you took your time," advised one visitor to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park who successfully navigated with their RV.
Seasonal operation limitations: Some facilities close during colder months. "We stayed in mid Sept 2020 and had a great time. We were in site 8. The bathhouse is small, but clean," reported a camper noting autumn conditions.
Reservation requirements: Busy periods require advance planning. At Lake Ridge RV Resort, a visitor shared, "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RV's/campers."
Varied water pressure: Water systems can fluctuate based on site location. "Even though we were in the back, the wifi worked great the entire time. Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes," reported one camper about adapting to utility limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation facilities. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available," notes a Lake Ridge RV Resort visitor highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Swimming access: Several locations offer water features during summer months. A visitor to Brushcreek Falls RV Resort mentioned, "We stayed a night on a long trip up the coast and had a great experience. The shop was well appointed with necessities and wine from local. It was easy to get around the campground."
Playground availability: Check for facilities appropriate for children. "We had plenty of room to park our RV and there was a very nice new swingset nearby. Noticed multiple people utilizing the fishing pond," commented a family about recreational options.
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. "Super nice people that run it, as well as the campers visiting. Each campsite has a level space, shade, and picnic table. Full hook ups, including cable!" noted a traveler with pets about amenities and atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Mountain terrain requires leveling blocks. "Our site was completely level and had a deck, perfect for a morning yoga routine. The sites were full hook-ups and the campground had really good Wi-Fi," shared a visitor to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park about site conditions.
Electric service options: Check for appropriate amperage before booking. At Riverwalk RV Park, a camper observed, "All the sites were very roomy, many pull through sites, very clean and very friendly hosts. All sites were gravel and have a fire pit that you can move around to where you want to build your fire."
Navigation tips: Use detailed directions when arriving after dark. "We followed the directions provided by Tom, the owner, to a 'T'. The roads were windy and a tad narrow but definitely do-able as long as you took your time," advised an RV owner who successfully navigated to their destination after sunset.
Size restrictions: Confirm your vehicle length can be accommodated. "They can handle the smaller TT to the largest monster-sized motor homes," noted a reviewer about site flexibility at one campground that accommodates various RV sizes.
