Montvale camping offers accessible wilderness experiences along Virginia's Blue Ridge mountains at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet. This region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler mountain nights that can dip into the 50s even in summer. Several campgrounds provide access to the Appalachian Trail and James River, creating opportunities for extended hiking and water activities.
What to do
Hiking at Crabtree Falls: Access Virginia's tallest waterfall from Crabtree Falls Campground, located just a mile from the trailhead. "The campground did have facilities that were about a quarter mile walk away from our sites; this is something to consider if you are camping with older folks or children," notes camper Britt S., who also mentions the AT is "close by and easily accessed."
Fishing in stocked waters: Smith Mountain Lake offers year-round fishing opportunities. "The lake was a nice aspect of the park as well," says Sara S. who stayed at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. Fishing licenses cost $8 per day with rental boats available during peak season.
Fall festivals and events: October brings Halloween-themed weekends to family campgrounds. "We had a great time with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" shares Bridget H. about her experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites positioned alongside moving water provide natural soundscapes and recreation. "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night," shares Britt S. about their stay at Crabtree Falls Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. "The private shower rooms are nice and clean," notes Martha S., while another reviewer mentions that "the showers were terrific as well" and "bathrooms were kept up."
Secluded tent sites: Tent campers appreciate wooded areas with more privacy. Andrea N. describes Middle Creek Campground: "The tent sites were tucked back into the woods... All of the sites were roomy and featured a small fire pit, picnic table, water, and electricity. Several of them even had a pull-through site and would work well for a small pop-up."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection in several camping areas. At Middle Creek Campground, Lisa describes it as "very peaceful and quiet" with limited connectivity. Don H. puts it more directly: "If you want cell service stay home that's not camping."
Seasonal operations: Most glamping close to Montvale, Virginia operates on limited schedules. Otter Creek Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway runs "May 6 to October 29" according to campground information, while others may close earlier depending on weather conditions.
Water quality concerns: Some campers report issues with the swimming areas. Angela R. notes: "We saw all sorts of dead fish in it. It was gross, some of the other campers said it was normal for the campground to have dead fish and dead snakes in the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for different ages: Facilities for younger and older children vary by location. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Matt R. describes "a pool, splash pad, pond/lake with a slide, beach, inflatable obstacle course" plus "2 additional water slides" making it appropriate for multiple age groups.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Some locations offer safe riding areas for children. Bridget H. mentions Thunder Bridge: "Idyllic forest campground... The open area includes several artists' studios. At one edge is a forest creek, great for wading."
Animal encounters: Many campgrounds feature animals that interest children. Karen at Natural Bridge KOA mentions "chickens running around and baby goats in a pen," which provides casual entertainment for younger campers without structured programming.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some mountain campgrounds require extra effort for larger rigs. Lisa at Middle Creek notes: "We took a site up their gravel road away from the main campground area... the sites are a bit more generous than your average private campground (we do not like the common 'parking lot' type arrangements)."
Premium site options: Upgraded sites offer more comfort for extended stays. Martha S. observed at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA: "The private shower rooms are nice and clean. The roads are rough dirt and gravel and not conducive to bike riding. They do trash pickup and deliver firewood."
