Primitive camping areas surround John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir within several state parks and national forest land. The reservoir sits at approximately 1,396 feet elevation with terrain characterized by steep, forested slopes and narrow valleys typical of southwestern Virginia. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that frequently drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cavitts Creek Park offers access to a scenic lake surrounded by mountains where anglers can catch multiple species. "Beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous mountains, hiking, fishing and boating, amazing staff, very clean shower houses and laundry facility! Very family oriented and pet friendly!" notes a visitor to Cavitts Creek Park.
Kayaking on calm waters: The Jefferson National Forest provides additional water recreation options with minimal crowds. "There we were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area," according to a camper at Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost.
Mountain hiking trails: The region features interconnected trail systems ranging from short nature walks to challenging terrain. A Kingdom Come visitor mentioned, "The surrounding mountains provide many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired."
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Many campgrounds in the area receive minimal visitors even during peak season. "I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper. It is very quiet and remote," explains one camper about Kingdom Come State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forested mountains provide habitat for diverse wildlife including bears, which are commonly mentioned in reviews. "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions," advises a camper at Kingdom Come State Park Campground.
Natural features: Unique rock formations and viewpoints add interest to camping trips in the region. "Our favorite is the Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains. There is also a natural rock bridge close to the campsites called Log Rock."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Most campgrounds in the area have specific protocols for food storage due to active bear populations. "Each with it's own picnic table, fire ring, and pole for stashing your food away from bears."
Ground conditions: Tent sites often require special equipment due to rocky terrain. "Bring a hammer or find a rock to hammer your tent stakes in because the ground where you would want to pitch a tent is mostly rock," advises a camper at Cavitts Creek Park.
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds close during colder months. Jefferson National Forest High Knob Campground operates only from "May 15 to September 15" according to their listing information.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the region with variable coverage depending on exact location. "Great area, no service or wifi," notes a Kingdom Come camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for fishing-friendly sites: Some parks offer stocked fishing ponds directly accessible from tent sites. "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout. Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites."
Consider layout and amenities: Campground designs vary significantly in privacy and convenience. "Tent sites were spaced a decent distance apart. Most were treed and had some shade during the day. The RV parking was a gravel lot with large RVs packed in tight," explains a visitor to Bellebrook Acres.
Check bathroom facilities: Restroom quality and accessibility varies widely between campgrounds. "The bathhouse in the primitive loop was a little bit rough and not well maintained. Quite hilly to get to it from some of the spots," notes a Cavitts Creek Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine," shares one visitor to Carr Creek Lake Shelters.
RV-specific parking areas: Many campgrounds segregate RVs from tent campers with different amenities. "The RV parking was a gravel lot with large RVs packed in tight."
Seasonal services: Dump stations and hookups may not be available year-round at all facilities. "No dump station, and the road in from Cumberland is STEEP!" reports an RV camper about Kingdom Come.
