Natural Tunnel State Park offers various camping accommodations within its 850-acre boundaries in southwestern Virginia. Located at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,700 feet, the park experiences mild summers with average temperatures around 80°F and cooler fall nights that can drop into the 40s. The limestone karst topography creates unique geological features including caves and the namesake tunnel that carries the railroad through a massive ridge.
What to do
Canoeing the Clinch River: Visitors at Natural Tunnel State Park Campground can explore the nearby waterways. "Canoed Clinch River, caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel. Highly recommend!" noted one camper who rated their experience 5 stars.
Hiking multiple connected trails: The trail system lets you create longer routes by connecting shorter paths. "There are plenty of hiking trails, a chairlift to view the tunnel, picnic areas, swimming pool and so much more," according to a visitor at Breaks Interstate Park Campground. Many trails lead to scenic overlooks with views of the surrounding mountains.
Catch-and-release fishing: Some campgrounds provide fishing opportunities in stocked ponds or natural waterways. "There is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites," explains a Kingdom Come State Park visitor who gave the location 5 stars.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. At Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground, one reviewer noted: "The bath houses were very clean and all the utilities were well maintained that we saw. Our site was on the outer loop (#24) and had plenty of space between ours and the next sites."
Unique geological features: The natural formations attract many visitors. "Who needs to go all the way out west to see the grand canyon when you can get the jist of it here," commented a camper about the canyon views at Natural Tunnel State Park, rating their experience 4 stars.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions," noted a Kingdom Come State Park camper. Deer are also common at several parks in the area.
What you should know
Heat management in yurt accommodations: For glamping close to Norton, Virginia, prepare for temperature variations. "The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside. Immediately after opening the door, opening the window and opening the canvas window coverings, we could feel the heat pouring out of the yurt... There is no way we could have stayed in the yurt without the fan," advised a camper at Natural Tunnel.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty in the mountains. "Great area, no service or wifi," mentioned a Kingdom Come State Park Campground visitor. Some campgrounds have better coverage than others, with Warriors' Path reporting "Cellular signal is available for all carriers."
Supply planning required: Several campgrounds are remote with limited access to stores. "Be sure to bring all necessary supplies BEFORE you get here, nearest stores are a 20 minute drive away on crooked mountain roads," advised one Breaks Interstate camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Leeman Field Park, families appreciate that "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees.), tennis courts, and disc golf course."
Educational opportunities: Rangers often lead programs suitable for various ages. "They have a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day," noted a Warriors' Path visitor who camped with family.
Water activities: Swimming options exist at multiple locations. A Natural Tunnel visitor observed, "Although there are playgrounds, a swimming complex, an amphitheater, and much more, some of these venues are closed for the season due to the pandemic."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region require preparation. At Baileyton KOA Holiday, one RVer noted, "We stayed in a pull through site and it was not very level (we had planned to not even unhook from the truck but had too bc of this)."
Road access considerations: The mountainous terrain creates challenges for larger rigs. "The roads to this amazing State Park are two lane and twisting. We have a 38' 5er and a CrewCab Dually tow vehicle. We didn't have a lot of issues getting here but it is quite mountainous with a lot of climbs," reported an RV camper at Breaks Interstate Park.
Site selection for larger units: Careful research on site dimensions is essential when glamping near Norton, Virginia with larger RVs. "Be careful when choosing a site as some are challenging to get into with larger units," advised a Breaks Interstate Park visitor with a 38-foot fifth wheel.
