Camping sites near Tazewell, Virginia range from creek-side primitive locations to full-service campgrounds at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet. The region sits within the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains, creating dramatic temperature variations between valley campgrounds and mountain sites. Forest Service roads leading to dispersed camping areas often require high-clearance vehicles and become impassable during winter months or after heavy rainfall.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Creek-side camping at Little Tumbling Creek offers immediate access to trout waters. "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek," notes Betsy W., describing multiple fishing spots accessible from a single camping location.
**Multi-day hiking: Backpackers use Chestnut Knob Shelter as a base for Appalachian Trail sections. "We've made this hike several times with our dogs. It is a great shorter hike with great views over Burkes Garden (nicknamed God's Thumbprint)," reports Brandon W., highlighting the distinctive geography visible from this shelter.
**Mountain biking: Camping locations near Damascus provide quick access to regional cycling routes. "Within 3 miles of these spots along the creek, you will find the famous and gorgeous Virginia Creeper Trail, the Whitetop Laurel Creek, and the Appalachian Trail. So bring your bikes, fishing poles, kayaks, and hiking boots for a full week of adventure," shares Shari G. about dispersed sites in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
What campers like
**Creek sounds for sleeping: Roadside camping along creeks provides natural sound barriers from nearby highways. "Beautiful spot right by a babbling creek that will lull you to sleep," says Knedd B. about the free sites at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
**Tent platforms at higher elevations: Several campgrounds offer wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole. The bathhouse was very clean and taken care of," explains Katrin M. about her experience at Royal Oak Campground.
**Winter stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide exceptional astronomical viewing. "The night sky was one of the most memorable moments from our trip. I've never seen so many stars!" shares Lindsay S. about camping at Mount Rogers, noting how the elevation creates prime conditions for night sky observation.
What you should know
**Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the area operate on limited schedules. "Currently closed as of January 25, 2021," reported Hannah L. about Mount Rogers facilities, illustrating the importance of checking operational status before travel, particularly during winter months.
**Limited connectivity: Cell service is virtually non-existent at most camping locations. "Absolutely no verizon service at the site," warns Sean about Little Tumbling Creek, reflecting the digital isolation common throughout the region's camping areas.
**Water access variability: Water sources differ significantly between campgrounds. "The spigot outside the shower house, but I did not open it to make sure it worked. We got our water using the shower house sink," reports David M. about his stay at Cavitts Creek Park, highlighting the need to verify water availability.
Tips for camping with families
**Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is a set of swings near these sites. They are however right on the road so it may be easier to just walk to the swings and keep littles in a site without as much traffic," advises Stephanie J. about specific sites at Hickory Ridge Campground.
**Seasonal activities: Summer programs provide structured entertainment for children. "The camp store near the Hickory Ridge Loop sells ice, firewood, and just about anything you may possibly have forgotten to pack," notes another visitor, mentioning how centralized amenities simplify family camping.
**Creek play areas: Natural water features serve as recreational spaces. "Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping," observes Betsy W. about Little Tumbling Creek, indicating the combination of open play space and water access popular with families.
Tips from RVers
**Site selection for larger vehicles: Campground layout significantly impacts RV accessibility. "The roads/lanes in the park are paved, but otherwise where you would ride are lousy for motorcycles. The 'gravel' parking lot from the road to the office and in the RV/electric loop is more like rocks," warns David M. about Cavitts Creek Park, illustrating surface challenges even for smaller recreational vehicles.
**Hookup verification: Water and electric services vary widely between campgrounds. "Site 11 which was electric only (30A). We knew this ahead of time so our fresh water tank was full," shares Bran P. about their stay at Stony Fork Campground, emphasizing the importance of understanding exact hookup details before arrival.
**Tree clearance concerns: Several RV campers note issues with low-hanging branches. "The tree branches along the road in the campground could use a good trim in a couple of places," notes Bran P. about Stony Fork Campground, highlighting a common challenge for taller recreational vehicles throughout the region.
