Camping near Mouth of Wilson, Virginia takes place at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 feet where the Virginia Highlands meet the Blue Ridge Mountains. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and daytime highs around 75-85°F. Primitive camping options along mountain creeks require proper food storage due to active black bear populations in the surrounding Jefferson National Forest.
What to do
Fishing access points: Helton Creek Campground sits directly on a designated Delayed Harvest trout stream that receives seasonal stockings. "Short drive to Mt. Roger's and wild ponies or to Virginia Creeper Biking Trail. Quaint town of West Jefferson close," notes Justin, the campground owner.
Mountain biking routes: The 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail can be accessed from Damascus, a 25-minute drive from Grindstone Campground. As one camper shares, "Short drive to downtown Damascus VA.. AT, Virginia Creeper, White Top Mountain and Mount Rogers all near by. Make this trip twice a year would add a third if time allowed."
Winter exploration: Most area campgrounds close from November through April, but Stone Mountain State Park remains open year-round with heated bathrooms. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," reports Charli R., highlighting the solitude of off-season camping.
What campers like
Disconnected experience: The lack of connectivity forces campers to fully unplug at Grindstone Campground. "If you want to escape it all, this campground is for you! There is no cell phone service. The campsite is wooded and the spaces are distanced well," writes Carissa D.
Creek sounds: Many visitors appreciate riverside campsites at Twin Rivers Family Campground, where the sound of flowing water enhances the experience. "Our site (#3) was right on the New River. The campground was clean and very well maintained," explains Kevin A., calling it "one of our top two campgrounds ever."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond the famous Grayson Highlands ponies, the area supports diverse wildlife. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, one camper reported: "Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" This campground provides equestrian-friendly facilities while offering access to similar trails as Hickory Ridge.
What you should know
Late-season weather: Fall camping brings stunning foliage but requires preparation for sudden temperature changes. At Hurricane Campground, a camper shared: "Amazing little campground in the heart of Mount Rogers recreational area in Western Virginia. Wonderful fall colors crisp, clean, mountain air was totally the best!"
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigation on unpaved roads. As one visitor to Hurricane Campground noted: "I wish I had known that the best route into the campground is 16 to 650. Instead, I took 650 from the north west, which turns out to be a 4 mile stretch of gravel road - which my little car had a rough time handling."
Non-resident fees: Virginia state parks charge higher rates for out-of-state visitors. For example, at Hungry Mother State Park, fees for non-Virginia residents are approximately $5-7 higher per night than for residents.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: New River State Park offers kid-friendly water access with gentler currents. "Every spot here is close to the river! The gentle sound of the New river is the most peaceful sound! Extremely clean bath house and very helpful rangers," notes Brittany H.
Educational resources: Nature centers provide rainy day activities for children. One visitor to New River State Park mentioned: "The nature center was very interactive and great for kids," making it suitable for multi-day stays with varying weather.
Easy hiking trails: For families with younger children, consider the shorter trails at Doughton Park Campground. "There are trails you can hike from camp," mentions Chris R., which eliminates additional driving for day hikes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, RVers recommend specific sites for better privacy. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," recommends Charli R.
Setup logistics: Some campgrounds require walking gear to your site. At New River State Park's Wagoner access, "You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows. The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained," explains Katrin M.
Water and electric availability: Most campgrounds offer limited hookups between April and October. At Hickory Ridge Campground in Grayson Highlands, "Even-numbered hookup sites 60-70 are also right on the meadow with very little shade," providing better solar access for RVs relying on battery power.
