Natural Tunnel State Park in southwest Virginia offers distinctive glamping experiences in canvas structures set at 1,600 feet elevation. The park occupies 850 acres of rugged terrain with limestone formations that date back 300 million years. Temperature variations can be significant, with summer days reaching the upper 80s while evenings cool down to the 60s even during peak season.
What to Do
Kayaking and canoeing: At Natural Tunnel State Park Campground, visitors can explore local waterways. "Canoed Clinch River, caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel. Highly recommend!" notes Rob J.
Hiking network: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas to points of interest. "A hiking trail ran behind the cabins, past the campground (also new) to the tunnel. It is a great hike and even better when you use the ski lift going up," reports Kim A.
Swimming: Facilities are available during summer months. "Great park! It's got all you need from camping to trails to swimming to even learning history about the area and the park itself! Great for the family!" writes Jaren E.
Interpretive programs: Kingdom Come State Park Campground offers educational activities throughout the year. "The local ranger was most helpful in providing firewood (free!) and offering to bring us water to wash up with or for drinking," notes Sarah.
What Campers Like
Diverse accommodation options: Natural Tunnel State Park Yurts provides alternatives to traditional camping. "As far as yurts go, I think the price was reasonable and is a little bit more separated from the rest of the sites which is a plus! Yurt itself was clean, comfortable and super spacious for just 3 people," explains Alexis R.
Solitude in certain areas: Some parks offer secluded experiences away from crowds. "This campground in the Kingdom Come State Park has about 6 or 7 sites, and they are primitive with no running water, but good pads, picnic tables, food hangers, shade from trees, and fire rings. I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper," shares Paul H.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically keep high standards. "Campground and park are clean, well maintained and up to date," mentions Rob J.
What You Should Know
Bear activity: The region has black bears that require proper food storage. "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions," warns Grant M. from Kingdom Come State Park.
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures in structures without air conditioning can be extreme. In some yurts without electricity, temperatures can reach uncomfortable levels without preparation.
Accessibility challenges: Breaks Interstate Park Campground has some terrain challenges. "The roads to this amazing State Park are two lane and twisting. We have a 38' 5er and a CrewCab Dually tow vehicle. We didn't have a lot of issues getting here but it is quite mountainous with a lot of climbs," explains Robert L.
Tips for Camping with Families
Multiple playgrounds: Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground caters to children with extensive recreational facilities. "Brought our family here for the end of spring break and had a blast. The kids loved riding thir bikes and scooters on the paved road through the park. My son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground," shares Jedidiah J.
Educational options: Historical sites provide learning opportunities. "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," notes Myron C.
Pack for weather variations: Temperature swings can be significant even in summer months. Prepare for both warm days and cool evenings with appropriate clothing layers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground offers a variety of pad types. "Lots of pull through spaces for larger campers and small ones as well. Beautiful view of Nolichucky River," mentions Cindy O.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region require equipment to level units. "Be careful when choosing a site as some are challenging to get into with larger units," advises Robert L. about Breaks Interstate Park.
Service availability: Plan for limited utilities in some locations. "There is a lot of bear activity, but we saw none. The local ranger was most helpful in providing firewood (free!) and offering to bring us water to wash up with or for drinking," explains Sarah.
