D
Deborah A.
Traveler
TravelerFour Fillies Lodge
Cabins with 3 RV sites
This is a lovely little cabin resort with 3 RV sites. We are here just 1 night enroute. It is beautiful and well maintained. I would definitely come back.
Best Campgrounds near Salem, VA
Salem, Virginia and the surrounding region feature several public and private campgrounds catering to various camping styles. Established campgrounds like Dixie Caverns provide full hookups for RVs and tent sites near natural attractions, while dispersed camping options exist along the Appalachian Trail at locations like Johns Spring Shelter and Catawba Mountain Shelter. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway corridor offers additional camping opportunities within a short drive. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some sites like Explore Park and Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing also offering cabin rentals.
Weather and terrain vary considerably throughout the region, with campgrounds situated along Interstate 81 providing easy access but sometimes experiencing traffic noise. Higher elevation sites along the Appalachian Trail require hiking in but offer more solitude and scenic views. Facilities range from fully developed campgrounds with showers and electric hookups to primitive shelters with basic toilets. Summer is the primary camping season, though some locations like Don's Cab-Inns operate year-round. As one visitor noted about Dixie Caverns, "Right off the interstate so easy access. Small spaces but everyone was very friendly."
Appalachian Trail camping receives high ratings from hikers, with areas like Dragon's Tooth earning perfect scores for their natural beauty and trail access. Roadside campgrounds closer to Salem tend to be more developed but may experience highway noise, especially those near Interstate 81. Campers seeking a quieter experience often prefer the backcountry sites that require hiking in. Several reviews mention the proximity to popular hiking destinations as a major advantage. A camper described the Catawba Mountain Shelter as having "lots of space for many people" and being "not too far from McAfee Knob," one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, though some campgrounds surprisingly offer WiFi connectivity.
Best Camping Sites Near Salem, Virginia (131)
1. Dixie Caverns
16 ReviewsSalem, VA6 milesWebsite+1 (540) 380-2085"just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"
"We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers. This campground seems to have a lot of permanent residents."
2. Don's Cab-Inns Campground
7 ReviewsHardy, VA12 milesWebsite+1 (540) 427-1800$25 - $100 / night
"First, it is a private campground located in a public park - in this case, Explore Park in Roanoke, Virginia (milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway)."
"The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling. Also, an outlet to charge your phone."
3. Dragon's Tooth
3 ReviewsSalem, VA8 milesWebsite+1 (540) 552-4641"dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail, there is a good amount of parking with a bathroom and garbage, once you begin the trail there are a few dispersed obvious camping spots"
"This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area. Car camping is the only option at this time."
4. Camp S'mores
6 ReviewsBent Mountain, VA15 miles"Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores in Floyd, Virginia is something truly special."
"Plenty of trails to walk and a few ponds on property to fish. Open year round but im too much a wimp to winter camp, cant wait to head back in the spring!!"
5. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
2 ReviewsSalem, VA7 milesWebsite"There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat."
6. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT
1 ReviewHollins, VA7 milesWebsite"Near water (collect water with a filter only) I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go.
Lots of space for many people.
Not too far from McAfee knob."
8. Caldwell Fields Group Campground
3 ReviewsBlacksburg, VA15 milesWebsite+1 (540) 552-4641$35 / night
"Nice hikes walking distance with lots of beautiful stars, trees, and wildlife! Make sure you don't need to text though, you only are able to send messages via satelite."
"Stayed here for two nights with 13 vehicles and 16 people to visit Potts Mountain Jeep trail. nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the canpsite"
9. Love's RV Hookup-Elliston VA 574
1 ReviewShawsville, VA10 milesWebsite+1 (540) 404-6700$45 - $55 / night
Recent Camping Photos near Salem, VA
224 Photos of 131 Salem Campgrounds
Dave V.
Dixie Caverns
Tara S.
Don's Cab-Inns Campground
Ryan W.
Camp S'mores
Dave V.
Camp Alta Mons
kaitlin R.
The Country, LLC
Joseph S.
Floating Heaven
Chaz M.
Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing
Rachel G.
Muddy Creek Campground & Farm
Annie H.
Muddy Creek Campground and Farm
Carlie S.
The Pines Campground
Elleyna A.
Mamas’ Mountain Haven
Kevin M.
White Rocks Campground
Recent Reviews near Salem, VA
567 Reviews of 131 Salem Campgrounds
Camp With Me
LegendGeorge Washington National Forest off 812
Site 1 - The Long One on the Creek
This is the first of 10 sites on Hercules Road, Route 812. This Forest Service Road #36 runs along Rocky Row Run Creek and is open all year long. This site is on the right and sits along the creek. There is a fire ring behind the barrier rocks and flat areas for tents both inside and outside of the rocks. There is also two more fire rings and tent areas as you walk along the creek.
Check out all the sites on this road in our video
https://youtu.be/QjBE-ASivns
- Camp With MeLegend
Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
The Big Site with a few Walk In Sites around it
This is the largest site on the road. Plenty of room for a large group to spread out. There are even three walk in sites around the main site if you want a little more privacy.
Check out site 5 in our video.
https://youtu.be/QjBE-ASivns
- BB D.
ScoutGreenwood Point Campground
Campground fine, scenery great
I haven't stayed a night here but have walked the entire camping area and camped near here many times. Most people access by water but there is also a trail that provides access to this location. It runs through Bolar Mountain Campground #2 & #3 and connects up to the beach area.
In the summer when the grass is high there can be a lot of ticks. Can get crowded on weekends. I've noticed it's a popular group spot - I mainly see groups of 6+ there at a minimum with multiple boats. Can get kind of trashy (littered) too. Beautiful setting though.
- JJesse J.Scout
Camp S'mores
One with Nature
If you’re an outdoor lover like myself and you want to enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of Mother Nature, this campground is the perfect location.
Don’t forget your telescope for when the sun goes down. There’s a perfect spot on the side of mountain for breathtaking views.
- JJoshua F.Scout
Camp S'mores
Peaceful escape from the city without having to go far!
Camped a few times with a group of veterans. The site is perfect for tent camping with multiple fire pits and firewood on site. Place isnt too far from Roanoke where I live so was a perfect weekend getaway without having to go far. We had cookouts and hung by the fire just relaxing and taking in the mountain scenery. Plenty of trails to walk and a few ponds on property to fish. Open year round but im too much a wimp to winter camp, cant wait to head back in the spring!!
Sam S.ScoutCaldwell Fields Group Campground
Large site - Great for Groups - Amazing Stars
Caldwell Fields is a great group campground with clean, large bathrooms (one for men, one for women, but they're identical pit toilets in the toilet facility) with a large firepit and creek access. Nice hikes walking distance with lots of beautiful stars, trees, and wildlife! Make sure you don't need to text though, you only are able to send messages via satelite.
Joshua G.ScoutCamp S'mores
Amazing location.
I would definitely recommend this place.
Johnny H.ScoutCamp S'mores
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores in Floyd, Virginia is something truly special. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains on nearly 100 acres, this property isn’t just a campground— it’s a place of peace, restoration, and purpose. From the moment you arrive, you feel the quiet. The kind of quiet that settles your spirit. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Rolling mountain views, stocked ponds, winding creeks, well-kept trails through beautiful hardwoods— it feels untouched yet thoughtfully cared for. Evenings around the fire pit under a sky filled with stars are unforgettable. You wake up to birds singing instead of traffic noise. It’s the reset we all need. What makes Camp S’mores stand out is the potential and the heart behind it. This is the perfect setting for:• Church retreats and ministry gatherings• Veterans looking for rest, healing, and brotherhood• Scout troops building skills and character• Families wanting a safe, peaceful outdoor experience• RV travelers seeking a quiet, resort-style mountain escape Whether you’re tent camping, van camping, or bringing your RV, the setting feels private, spacious, and serene. You truly feel like you have room to breathe. If you’re looking for a place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and spend meaningful time with people who matter— Camp S’mores delivers in every way. We will absolutely be back. Highly recommend supporting this hidden gem in Floyd, VA.
Guide to Salem
Dispersed camping near Salem, Virginia ranges from streamside primitive sites to high-elevation backcountry spots with temperature variations of 15-20 degrees between lower and higher elevations. The camping season typically runs April through October, with some locations experiencing heavy traffic during fall foliage season when nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in early autumn.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Dixie Caverns Campground sits on the property of actual caverns worth touring. As one camper noted, "You are in budget country. Great price and affordable attraction that will not disappoint." The cave tour offers a discount to campers staying on-site.
Mountain biking trails: Explore Park offers extensive trail networks for mountain bikers of all skill levels. The park continues to expand its offerings, with one visitor mentioning, "This park is growing by leaps and bounds. It has mountain bike trails, a cool vintage village, access to the Roanoke River, an aerial obstacle course, and more cool stuff."
Hike to scenic viewpoints: The Dragon's Tooth trail connects to the Appalachian Trail and leads to spectacular overlooks. A hiker described it as "a moderate to hard hike" where "once you get to the top of the rock the view is incredible" with "a few maybe four or five good camping spots" at the summit.
What campers like
Private cabins: Don's Cab-Inns Campground offers climate-controlled cabin options with amenities. According to one reviewer, "These cabins have plenty of room for a family or couple getaway. The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling."
Riverside camping: Multiple campgrounds offer access to the Roanoke River for cooling off. One camper stated, "We just enjoyed walking to the river and jumping in to cool off!" during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Wide group sites: Caldwell Fields Group Campground accommodates large parties with spacious group sites. A visitor reported, "Stayed here for two nights with 13 vehicles and 16 people... nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the campsite."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near Interstate 81 experience continuous traffic noise. One camper at Dixie Caverns explained, "You are surrounded on three sides by roadway...and the actual Dixie Cavern is at the base of a mountain, so all the road traffic is above the campground and the noise reverberates off the mountain and surrounding walls 24/7."
Water availability: Many primitive sites require planning ahead for water needs. At Dragon's Tooth, a camper advised, "Bring lots of water! No need to pack a life straw of any kind because there's not really water around except right in the beginning of the trail from the parking lot."
Varying toilet facilities: Bathroom conditions range widely across locations. At Peaks of Otter Campground, a visitor noted, "Bathrooms were running water, but no showers and could use some updating (broken tiles, latches on doors, etc.) but all cosmetic."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin camping for beginners: At Don's Cab-Inns, families can ease into camping with cabin rentals. One family reported, "Our family loved this campground! It is close to Roanoke and it is off the Blue Ridge Parkway... We stayed in one of the cabins and it was definitely roomier than it looks."
Adventure activities: Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing offers structured activities for children. A parent mentioned, "The creek was the big hit for our family of small boys. Grab some lawn chairs and a cooler and let them play and explore for hours."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds feature educational programming. At Peaks of Otter, visitors can learn about mountain ecology and history, while Explore Park offers "education classes for children" according to a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. One RVer at Dixie Caverns noted, "Sites not level. Very narrow sites. Some full time residents' rigs give the Breaking Bad class C a run for their money, if they run."
Code access conveniences: Some facilities use keypad entry systems rather than keys. A camper explained, "Bathrooms/showers and cabin are push code to get into. This makes it so easy and convenient. You don't need to worry about losing a key or wondering who in your travel party has the key."
Winter camping options: For off-season camping, Tina's Dream offers year-round accessibility. A reviewer mentioned it's "a nice alternate campground" where "Tina is a very nice lady! Camp in her house driveway... quiet and safe neighborhood."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any waterfront camping available near Salem, VA?
Is there any waterfront camping available near Salem, VA?
Yes, several excellent waterfront camping options exist near Salem. Lake Sherwood offers beautiful campsites right on the water, with the majority of sites providing direct lake access. The campground is situated against a small mountain ridge that divides West Virginia and Virginia. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area provides stunning lakeside sites with breathtaking views, clean facilities including showers and flushable toilets. Another option is Douthat State Park, which features a nice lake for kayaking and canoeing alongside well-spaced campsites. Most waterfront options are within 1-2 hours of Salem, making them perfect for weekend getaways.
What are the best campgrounds in Salem, VA for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Salem, VA for tent camping?
For tent camping near Salem, Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp is consistently rated as one of Virginia's best campgrounds. It offers well-maintained sites with personality, clean bathrooms, and potable water throughout. Most sites accommodate vehicle parking right at your campsite. Another excellent option is North Creek Campground, which provides affordable tent camping ($15) in a serene natural setting. For those willing to drive a bit further, Caldwell Fields Group Campground offers drive-in tent sites with basic facilities. Dragon's Tooth provides a more primitive experience with hike-in access, perfect for adventurous campers seeking solitude in nature.
How far is Dixie Caverns Campground from Salem, VA?
How far is Dixie Caverns Campground from Salem, VA?
Dixie Caverns is located at the outskirts of Salem, VA. The privately owned campground and tourist site is directly off Interstate 81, making it extremely accessible from Salem. The distance is minimal, approximately 5-10 minutes driving time from downtown Salem. Its convenient location means you're very close to town while still having access to camping facilities. For those seeking alternatives in the area, Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA is another option, though it's further from Salem (about 30-40 minutes south) but offers more amenities including a pool, game room, and playground.
Keep Exploring