Rocky Knob Campground offers primitive camping along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Floyd, Virginia, with convenient access for hikers. This area sits at elevations between 1,700 to 3,500 feet, creating distinct temperature variations throughout the year. Campgrounds in this region typically range from full-service RV parks with hookups to more rustic tent sites on national forest land.
What to do
Fairy stone hunting: Visit Fairy Stone State Park Campground, where you can search for the unique cross-shaped minerals. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun. It was just after covid 19 started and lessening restrictions began so the beach was closed and there were few people at the campground but we had a great time riding bikes and hiking," reports Bridget H.
Disc golf and mountain biking: Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground offers outdoor activities right on site. "It is a beautiful venue with rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails. 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!" notes Stafford W.
Kayaking and fishing: The lakes near Floyd provide excellent water recreation opportunities. At Philpott Lake's Salthouse Branch, one camper shared: "The launch ramp was adjacent to the campsite and while we could have portaged our kayak to the ramp, there is an ample parking lot ramp-side. Philpott reservoir is magnificent!"
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Campers appreciate the natural settings at Rocky Knob Campground. "C loop is best IMO. Far from RV sites, the spaces are quiet with plenty of room. We love it! A winery, meadery, restaurants, convenient stores, hiking trails, Mabry Mill, live music and Nancy's candy factory are all within short drives," explains Tim Y.
Clean facilities: COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park maintains high standards for their bathhouses. "Bathrooms and showers were very clean and well maintained, they even had decent TP! Firewood was seasoned and reasonably priced. We were at site 35 which was convenient to the bathrooms and was away from the other campsites in the loop," reports Brittany H.
Good campsite layouts: Many campgrounds in the area feature well-designed sites. At Salthouse Branch, a visitor noted: "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat. Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Be prepared for connectivity issues. At Meadows Of Dan Campground, a camper found a solution: "We needed a clear sky to the NNE for Starlink, and found the perfect spot— technically an RV site, but it worked great for our tent for one night. It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north."
Terrain challenges: The mountainous landscape means steep roads to some campgrounds. At Salthouse Branch, one camper warned: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Alcohol regulations: Rules vary by campground. At Salthouse Branch, a camper shared this experience: "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong."
Tips for camping with families
Free beach access: At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, families get special perks. "Lake beach passes included in price (when not under Covid restrictions). Boat rentals. Plenty clean bathrooms and hot showers. Wood, ice and soda machines available. IT's my favorite go-to campground!" writes Michelle W.
Ranger programs: Educational activities make camping more meaningful for kids. At Fairy Stone State Park, a parent shared: "The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play areas. At Salthouse Branch, a family mentioned: "We always love visiting Salthouse Branch! Facilities are clean, staff is friendly and helpful, and we love the atmosphere in the lower loop! The kids love the playground!"
Tips from RVers
Pet-friendly options: Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA offers specialized RV sites for pet owners. "We stayed here as an overnight stop but wish we could have stayed longer! Very cool campground, and the dog yard sites are awesome! Clean and friendly camp store, pool, fishing pond, and a lot of other amenities!" shares Kevin E.
Site selection matters: At Fairy Stone State Park, one RVer noted: "Most of the sites are not level and it felt very crowded. The bathrooms and showers were pretty gross and I don't think they were cleaned the 3 days we were there. Our site was by the dump station which was in sitting black and grey water when we arrived."
Full hookup availability: Many RVers prefer the amenities at Chantilly Farm. "We were on top of a hill with other RV's with gorgeous views and sunsets. The grounds were very well kept and mowed. Trash cans were abundant and bathrooms were decent," reports Joan.
