The Marion area sits in the Blue Ridge Highlands of southwestern Virginia, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 feet. Temperatures typically run 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands during summer months. Camping options include both mountain settings with forest cover and valley locations offering riverside access with varying levels of shade.
What to do
Creeper Trail access: At Laurel Creek RV Park in Damascus, campers appreciate the direct trail connections. "This campground is small and no bathrooms, but it is directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town," shares one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Streams and creeks throughout the region provide trout fishing spots within walking distance of many campgrounds. "Our site was nicely shaded and fairly level. We were in Damascus for the Appalachian Trail Days Festival and needed an RV spot," a camper noted about their recent stay at Laurel Creek RV Park.
Riverside relaxation: Several campgrounds feature water access for wading or sitting streamside. "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views. I'm under a weeping willow. Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel," describes a guest at Laurel Creek.
What campers like
Proximity to trails: The New River Trail attracts many visitors to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park. "The start of the trail is less than 1/2 mile from the campground and travels along the New River for miles. It is also possible to reach Galax by bike along a spur - about 11 miles from the campground," one camper explains.
Community atmosphere: Some parks foster social connections among guests. "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!! But, the town is on the 'Crooked River Music Trail' and music is an important part of their heritage," reports a visitor to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness and upkeep matter to campers staying at rv sites near Marion, Virginia. "Tom, the owner is first class as is his campground. Impeccable gravel sites, bathroom and common areas. Sites are close to level. Nothing severe at all," writes one reviewer about their experience at Fries.
What you should know
Varying hookup availability: Campgrounds offer different utility setups, with some providing complete services while others have limitations. At Doughton Park Campground, "There is a basic dump station at the entrance as well as potable water" but no on-site hookups for most sites.
Reservation policies: Some parks allow last-minute bookings while others require advance planning. "We were lucky enough to call just after a cancellation was made in the RV Park…making room for us for 4 nights," noted a camper at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Weather considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds experience different conditions than valley locations. "Unseasonably wet during our stay. 4 days of almost non-stop rain," reported a camper at Doughton Park, which sits at higher elevation along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "Great WiFi and cable hookups" at Fries contrasts with limited service at more remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds feature pools or creek access for children. Lake Ridge RV Resort offers "Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RVs/campers," according to a recent visitor.
Entertainment amenities: Look for parks with recreation options beyond hiking. "We spent one evening playing in the arcade room where I may currently hold the high score on one of the pinball machines," shares a family that stayed at Lake Ridge RV Resort.
Playground availability: Several RV sites near Marion include dedicated play areas. "New playground for the kids! Remodeled bath houses make it the nicest campground on the river," notes a camper at River Country Campground & RV Park.
Multi-generational activities: Parks often provide options for various age groups. "We enjoyed our morning walks along the trails and lake. We spent one evening playing in the arcade room and got to have lazy days around the park," writes a Lake Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Navigate approaches carefully at some campgrounds. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, "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."
Level site availability: Surface quality varies between parks. "Each campsite has a level space, shade, and picnic table. Full hook ups, including cable!" explains a visitor to Fort Chiswell.
Seasonal operations: Some amenities close during certain months. "There is a very clean pool, but it was not open," reports a Fort Chiswell camper during off-season travel.
Rig size limitations: Verify your vehicle can fit before booking at smaller parks. "They can handle the smaller TT to the largest monster-sized motor homes," notes a Fries New RiverTrail RV Park guest, while others in the region may have tighter space constraints.
