Camping sites near Newbern, Virginia provide access to the New River Valley region at elevations ranging from 1,900 to 2,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day with cooler nights, making extended camping comfortable without extreme heat. Fall camping offers optimal conditions from September through early November with reduced crowds at most campgrounds after Labor Day weekend.
What to do
Tubing adventures: New River Junction Campground offers equipment rentals and shuttle service for river floats. "Bring your fishing pole for some great catch and release fishing, or rent a inner tub or canoe and float down River to a shuttle bus that brings you back to the campgrounds," notes Robert J. The campground also accommodates pets with special tube rentals for dogs.
Fishing opportunities: Gatewood Park in Pulaski sits on a reservoir with multiple fishing spots. "Wonderful place. Friendly staff. Good fishing," according to Melissa N., who mentions the park maintains clean bathhouses that are serviced daily. The location offers both bank fishing and boat access with rentals available.
Hiking trail exploration: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems, with varied difficulty levels. At Claytor Lake State Park, Kristina D. reports, "Hiking trails all accessible from the camp areas. My spot had electric and water hook ups." The park features well-maintained trails with new signage and tree identification placards along the routes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Wytheville KOA, campers appreciate the thoughtful layout. "Each site that I saw has a patio and a fire bowl," notes Edward C., who found the sites more spacious than typical KOA campgrounds. Some campsites feature natural barriers between spots for additional privacy.
Camp store amenities: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores with camping necessities. Lisa T. shares that Wytheville KOA "has lots of necessities and some fun souvenirs" in their camp store. These stores typically stock firewood, ice, basic groceries, and camping supplies for last-minute needs.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most campgrounds in the area welcome pets with designated walking areas. Beverly T. notes that Wytheville KOA offers "great campground, we have stayed here several times, great home base while scouting the surrounding areas." The campground has specific policies for pets including designated walking areas and waste disposal stations.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks that may affect light sleepers. At New River Junction Campground, Cristina R. advises, "There were about 8 trains that passed through on our first night which led us to not sleeping well! So bring ear plugs!" The train crossings include horn signals that can be heard throughout the camping area.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited or no cell service due to mountain terrain. Burkley W. points out that Gatewood Park has "minimal to no cell phone and Wi Fi" making it ideal for those wanting to disconnect. Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi at central locations like the camp store or office area.
Seasonal water levels: River conditions change throughout the season affecting activities. One camper at New River Junction noted during their tubing experience that "they said they dragged their butts the majority of the way" due to low water levels. Water levels are typically highest in spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Claytor Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities. Angela J. shares, "Claytor Lake was a great campground for families. We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks." The park includes a beach area and ranger-led programs during peak season.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for children. Lisa T. notes that at Wytheville KOA, "our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" These organized activities typically run on weekends and daily during summer months.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds vary in terrain and water access safety. Regarding New River Junction, one camper mentions "It's rocky and slippery so it's dangerous and not very family friendly. Especially for young children and older people." Check with campground offices about age-appropriate areas.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Fort Chiswell RV Park provides level sites for easy setup. Nancy C. reports, "RV sites aren't really spacious, but are shaded with a picnic bench. No fire pits allowed." Most sites require minimal leveling with blocks, though some campgrounds have more variation in terrain.
Utility placement: Water and electric hookup locations can require extended hoses at some campgrounds. One RVer at Pioneer Village notes, "Our water spigot was way at the back of our site but luckily, I was able to reach it with our 50' hose. The sewer was placed in the middle which was convenient." Bringing extension cords and longer hoses is recommended.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer pull-through sites for easier access. At Pioneer Village, John L. mentions, "Easy access to pull through sites, needed one inch block on one side to level off." These sites typically cost $2-5 more per night than back-in sites but simplify arrival and departure.
Off-season discounts: Winter camping offers reduced rates at year-round facilities. Walnut Flats provides free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "This is a wonderful spot. It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables," notes Alice S., adding that the pit toilets are clean and well-maintained despite the lack of hookups.
