Campgrounds in the Newbern, Virginia area range from state parks to private RV resorts, offering both developed facilities and primitive options. Claytor Lake State Park, approximately 5 miles from Newbern, provides tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations with full hookup options. Other nearby established campgrounds include Gatewood Park in Pulaski and Fort Chiswell RV Park in Max Meadows. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Walnut Flats offers free dispersed camping with basic amenities such as toilets and picnic tables but without electrical hookups.
Access to most campgrounds in the region is straightforward via drive-in sites, though some areas like New River Trail State Park feature walk-in tent camping. Many campgrounds operate year-round, while others like New River Junction Campground are seasonal, open from May through September. Water-based recreation represents a significant draw, with several campgrounds situated along Claytor Lake and the New River. Bathroom facilities vary considerably, from primitive vault toilets at dispersed sites to clean shower facilities at developed campgrounds. As noted in one review, "Beautiful park that is less than 8 minutes from I-81 so makes for a get stopover point when traveling."
Several visitors highlight Claytor Lake State Park's amenities and natural setting as standout features. The park offers water and electric hookups, hiking trails accessible directly from camping areas, and a beach area for swimming during summer months. Campsites vary in size and privacy, with some loops providing more seclusion than others. The park's marina provides boat rentals and lake access for fishing and watersports. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "The sites are level and many are shaded. Although we are tent campers, RV campers WILL NOT be disappointed." Wildlife sightings are common, with reviewers mentioning turkey vultures, deer, woodpeckers, raccoons, and skunks. Visitors seeking quieter experiences should consider camping during weekdays or in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when temperatures are cooler and campgrounds less crowded.
"Conveniently located bath house. We got sites right next to our friends where we wanted to be. The lake and beach area were beautiful. Sand was soft and very clean."
"Lots of space, cheap price, walking distance from the lake raccoons and skunks everywhere all night."
$50 - $170 / night
"Easy exit off Rt 81, with several truck stops/gas stations at the exit to fill up. The roads are a bit hilly going into the campground, but we didn’t experience any issues."
"We stayed here for 1 night, to break up an 8-hour drive home from points south. The facility is very well maintained, the staff is very friendly and the location was convenient (1 mile off of 81)."
$35 - $38 / night
"While driving out to the monument in his honor I found this site and loved what I saw!"
"Fort Chiswell RV park in Virginia is a very clean park beautiful trees paved driveways and a bathroom that is very clean and at the end of the bathrooms actually have tables at Pavilion They have Wi-Fi"
"The campground is not far from Virginia Tech and so there were several other campers staying a few nights with plans to go to the football game."
"Several RV sites located right on Beautiful New River. Tent camping also available."
"A great out of the way location. A bit of a drive in but worth the travel. Extremely clean and well maintained facility. Peaceful and level spots."
"nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole, restrooms but I didn't use them well water pump for drinking water but didn't use"
"Occasional.peiole driving through but a great experience!"
"We camped in this park for one night as we were just passing through Virginia on our way south. Overall, we liked the park and was what perfect for our overnight stay."
"We only stayed for one night and this location is very convenient for this area when traveling Interstate 81. Easy access to pull through sites, needed one inch block on one side to level off."
$21 / night
"Ever wake up on a foggy Virginia morning and walk only a few feet fro your tent and watch the fog rise off the water? I DID and it was AMAZING!!"
"Really cool campground located right on the New River, located at Foster Falls. The river sounds amazing at night."
ScoutIf 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.
ScoutCamped 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!!
ScoutCaldwell 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.
ScoutI would definitely recommend this place.
Scout⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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.
ScoutMyself 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!
ScoutVery beautiful scenery, amazing views.
GuideTypical campground with rv spots close together with no shade. Fill hook ups at each site.
LegendYou can only access Doubles Shoals Campground from the New River Trail of from the New River in a Kayak. It is a great place to camp if you are traveling the trail or river. The two sites include picnic tables, fire ring with grill, benches and a pit toilet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Newbern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Newbern, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 144 campgrounds and RV parks near Newbern, VA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Newbern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Newbern, VA is Claytor Lake State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Newbern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Newbern, VA.
What parks are near Newbern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Newbern, VA that allow camping, notably Bluestone Lake and Philpott Lake.
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