Best Campgrounds near New Castle, VA

The mountainous terrain surrounding New Castle, Virginia provides a diverse camping landscape where Appalachian Trail access points meet established campgrounds. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing offers 30 sites with amenities including drinking water and showers, while The Pines Campground operates seasonally from April through early December with more basic facilities. Within an hour's drive, campers can access primitive hike-in sites at Dragon's Tooth and Catawba Mountain Shelter along the Appalachian Trail, or find full-service options at Dixie Caverns near Salem. The region's camping options span from rustic backcountry experiences to developed sites with RV hookups, reflecting the area's position between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Jefferson National Forest.

Country roads throughout the area require careful navigation, particularly when accessing more remote sites. As one camper noted, "Sites are to themselves and absolutely breathtaking scenery" at properties near New Castle. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October when temperatures remain moderate at these higher elevations. Cell service is notably limited or non-existent at many locations, particularly at primitive sites along the Appalachian Trail. Bear activity necessitates proper food storage throughout the region, with several campgrounds providing bear-proof trash receptacles. Winter camping options are limited primarily to lower elevations or sites with year-round road maintenance.

Proximity to water features significantly influences campsite popularity in the New Castle region. Nearby lakes and rivers provide fishing and paddling opportunities, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. Noise levels vary dramatically between locations, with roadside campgrounds experiencing traffic sounds while backcountry sites offer remarkable quiet. During summer weekends, established campgrounds like those at Douthat State Park (within driving distance) fill quickly, while primitive sites along trails may remain available. Hikers particularly value the strategic location of camping options near New Castle, as they provide convenient access to popular sections of the Appalachian Trail including Dragon's Tooth and Tinker Cliffs. Wildlife sightings, particularly deer, are commonly reported throughout the camping areas surrounding New Castle.

Best Camping Sites Near New Castle, Virginia (140)

    1. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing

    5 Reviews
    Oriskany, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 864-6792

    $25 - $75 / night

    "We were not sure about taking such a detour from our path to Asheville, but are so glad we did! We booked a spot “in the meadow” but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more."

    "If you’re up for a fun hike, take the Outerspace trail up to “The Bluff” and enjoy the mountain views."

    2. The Pines Campground

    4 Reviews
    Oriskany, VA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 552-4641

    3. Dixie Caverns

    16 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +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."

    4. Dragon's Tooth

    3 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    9 miles
    Website
    +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."

    5. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    8 miles
    Website

    "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 Review
    Hollins, VA
    8 miles
    Website

    "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."

    7. Tina's Dream

    2 Reviews
    Troutville, VA
    14 miles
    +1 (540) 855-4383

    $40 / night

    8. Moncove Lake State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Paint Bank, VA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 772-3450

    $40 / night

    "Moncove Lake is a State Park in West Virginia right over the Virginia border and about 40 mins from Lewisburg in Gap Mills, WV. "

    "Great family friendly camper and tent sites overlooking Moncove Lake. Electric hookups and water spickets available. Fishing and swimming and hiking trails."

    9. Greenbrier State Forest

    10 Reviews
    Caldwell, WV
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 536-1944

    $45 / night

    "The bathrooms are centrally located. There are only two showers, so we had to wait a couple times to get a shower, but it wasn't a big deal."

    "Greenbrier West Virginia State Forest campground - very nice, but limited amenities. Electric-only hookups, and no dump station on site. Water is available a short distance from the campsites."

    10. Caldwell Fields Group Campground

    3 Reviews
    Blacksburg, VA
    16 miles
    Website
    +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"

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Recent Reviews near New Castle, VA

639 Reviews of 140 New Castle Campgrounds


  • J
    Feb. 21, 2026

    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.

  • J
    Feb. 21, 2026

    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.
    Feb. 20, 2026

    Caldwell 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.
    Feb. 18, 2026

    Camp S'mores

    Amazing location.

    I would definitely recommend this place.

  • Johnny H.
    Feb. 18, 2026

    Camp 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.

  • Dave B.
    Feb. 18, 2026

    Camp S'mores

    AMAZINGLY Beautiful Property

    Myself and a small group of friends spent an extended weekend on the property of Camp S’mores and thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful and serene setting. The property has an abundance of everything that you would want when wanting to get away. The nature trails, ponds, creeks, beautiful trees, fire pit, and a night sky lit up by stars. So PEACEFUL! We couldn’t have found a better site to stay at! We have decided to make this an annual trip and will be heading back this spring!

  • Elijah G.
    Feb. 17, 2026

    Camp S'mores

    Beautiful scenery

    Very beautiful scenery, amazing views.

  • Michael H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 31, 2026

    Explore Park

    Nice open campground

    Typical campground with rv spots close together with no shade. Fill hook ups at each site.

  • Camp With Me The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 12, 2026

    Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    Pedlar River Camping

    We love this area and have been camping here for many years.  There are about 4 campsites at this GPS marker and it is our favorite place to camp in the area.  There are also 5 other sites on the road in if you don't want to travel as far or don't care about being near the river.  

    Check them all out with the exact GPS coordinates in our video. 

    https://youtu.be/iQ9X9MxlpNw


Guide to New Castle

Camping spots near New Castle, Virginia range in elevation from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines throughout the camping season. The region sits at the junction of Jefferson National Forest and private campgrounds, with seasonal limitations most pronounced at primitive sites where winter road closures begin in early November. Cell reception improves at campgrounds east of New Castle, particularly those closer to Interstate 81.

What to do

Live music experiences: At Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, weekend entertainment creates a social atmosphere. "Saturday night with a bluegrass band, friendly families with kids, good food and drinks; totally our jam," reports one camper who appreciated the unexpected community feel.

Creek exploration: Several campgrounds feature water access that provides natural entertainment. "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," notes a visitor to Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.

Cave touring: Dixie Caverns campground includes access to underground exploration. "The caverns are worth visiting pretty cool cave system. We got in late in the afternoon after the last tour woke up early and caught the first tour before heading on our way," mentions a camper who planned their schedule around this unique attraction.

Bouldering opportunities: Campers near the Appalachian Trail access points can find rock climbing options. "Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones. Lugging a crash pad all the way to the top isn't the most fun, but worth it," explains one visitor describing the climbing near Peaks of Otter.

What campers like

Spacious sites: The Pines Campground receives positive feedback for site arrangement. "Nice sized sites. Level gravel pads on most sites. Wildlife galore. Truly wonderful small campground," explains a camper who appreciated the layout and natural setting.

Evening atmosphere: Fireflies create natural entertainment at higher elevation sites during summer months. "We had zero problems with mosquitos but enjoyed the night show of fireflies," notes a family staying at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.

Forested privacy: Greenbrier State Forest campground, though in neighboring West Virginia, draws New Castle area campers seeking shade. "The sites are well-appointed, well-maintained, wooded, and peaceful," reports a visitor who found it worth the drive.

Nighttime quiet: Most primitive camping areas maintain peaceful evening environments. "It is a small park, but so beautiful and scenic. There is no cell or internet service here so we were really able to unwind and relax," notes a camper at Moncove Lake State Park.

What you should know

Water availability varies: Some campgrounds lack reliable water sources. "There is a water pump, but currently broken," reported a visitor to The Pines Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient water supplies.

Highway noise considerations: Dixie Caverns campground experiences consistent traffic sounds. "The downfall is it is near the highway and you hear highway traffic at all times. If you have dogs there's not really a great dog walking area," explains a reviewer who found the location convenient but noisy.

Campsite selection timing: Availability changes dramatically between weekdays and weekends. "We showed up right at 10pm and luckily found an empty spot," notes a visitor who arrived at The Pines Campground after hiking McAfee Knob, demonstrating the fill patterns.

Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms throughout the region vary significantly in quality and maintenance. "Bath house was decent. On the ladies' side, there were three flush toilets, two sinks with cold water only, and no soap," explains a camper at Peaks of Otter, providing specific facility details.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Moncove Lake State Park provides structured recreation options. "There is a nice playground for the kids and some great hiking trails," reports a visitor who found the facilities appropriate for children of various ages.

Cash requirements: Several campgrounds in the area require cash payments with limited nearby ATM access. "Bring cash if you want to swim in the pool. There is no ATM at the campground and the closest town is like 40 mins away," advises a camper at Moncove Lake.

Lodge alternatives: When camping with young children, some sites offer indoor options. "We booked a spot 'in the meadow' but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more. Great old building + comfy beds + no wet tent to pack up = sold!" explains a family who discovered the flexibility at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.

Site access challenges: Peaks of Otter Campground requires careful site selection for families. "Many sites were tiered—I had steps or the worn path down to the actual site from where I parked," notes a camper, highlighting potential mobility issues for young children or older family members.

Tips from RVers

Electrical considerations: Most primitive sites lack hookups entirely. "No water or sewer or on site dump station. The bathhouse and restrooms are pretty gross but the park and trails are so beautiful that it doesn't really matter," reports an RV camper at Greenbrier State Forest who found the natural setting compensated for limited facilities.

Access road challenges: Greenbrier State Forest requires careful navigation. "Accessing the campground involves driving 3 miles off I-64 on State 60/14, Harts Run Rd, a winding and narrow two-lane road, which might be a challenge for larger RV trailers and motorhomes," warns a camper who successfully navigated with a 23-foot Airstream.

Leveling requirements: Campground terrain affects setup difficulty. "The sites are not level - and we had the best of the lot," notes a camper at Peaks of Otter, suggesting RVers bring additional leveling equipment.

Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist in the region. "We stayed in Meadow 10 with our friends. So much space and privacy and able to pull through," explains a popup camper at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing who found the site configuration ideal for their setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Country Campground in New Castle?

At The Country, LLC, campers can enjoy private, secluded sites with spectacular mountain scenery. The campground features individual camping areas that provide privacy and tranquility. For those seeking additional amenities in the region, Thunder Bridge nearby offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, screen cabins, and fully furnished rental cabins on a historic property that was once a CCC camp. Both locations provide a peaceful outdoor experience in Virginia's beautiful countryside.

Where is Country Campground located in New Castle, VA?

The Country, LLC is a private campground located in New Castle, Virginia. This beautiful property is situated on a scenic farm with breathtaking mountain views. The campground is somewhat secluded, offering a peaceful retreat in the rural countryside of Craig County. While specific directions aren't provided, it's accessible by car and serves as a great base for exploring the natural beauty of western Virginia.

How much does it cost to stay at Country Campground in New Castle?

Specific pricing for The Country, LLC in New Castle isn't detailed in current reviews, but as a private campground, rates likely vary by season and site type. For comparison, similar campgrounds in the region like Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA have varying rates based on amenities and site type. For the most accurate and current pricing information, it's recommended to contact The Country, LLC directly before planning your stay, as rates may change seasonally and different site options may be available at different price points.