Tent camping near Pearisburg, Virginia offers access to the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,500 feet. The region's camping season typically runs April through early December, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 55-65°F at night. Most primitive sites in the area don't have electricity, requiring campers to rely on alternative lighting and phone charging solutions.
What to do
Kayaking the New River: Launch from Whitt Riverbend Park for easy water access near Highway 460. "Cozy little site not too far from the main highway! Primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!" notes John R.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple sites provide access to the New River for fishing, particularly for bass species. At Camp Success, campers can utilize the boat ramp for water entry. As one visitor observed: "I didn't camp here, but I took out my kayak at the boat ramp and looked around. Vault M/F toilet, BYOTP. No hookups and I didn't see a water spigot."
Disc golf course: Camp Success features a disc golf course next to its camping area. "Beautiful spot on the New River in Giles County, VA located right outside downtown Narrows. There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," writes Wendy G.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the quiet, undeveloped setting of tent sites in the region. At Millrace Campground — New River Trail State Park, campers enjoy riverside camping with ambient water sounds. "Really cool campground located right on the New River, located at Foster Falls. The river sounds amazing at night," shares one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded camping areas provide opportunities to observe local fauna. According to a camper at Old Mill Campground — Bluestone Lake State Park: "West Virginia at its finest! Blue stone state park is right next door to the lake so there are wonderful water activities here. There is a marina where we got to rent a boat and the catfish were plentiful."
Morning river views: Fog rising off the New River creates memorable morning experiences. As one Millrace Campground visitor described: "Ever wake up on a foggy Virginia morning and walk only a few feet from your tent and watch the fog rise off the water? I DID and it was AMAZING!!"
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most tent camping sites around Pearisburg close during winter months. Typically, areas like East Shore Campground — Bluestone Lake State Park operate mid-April through October.
Vehicle requirements: Some campgrounds require off-road capable vehicles. Forest service roads can become rough, especially after rain.
Carry-in camping: Some sites require hiking gear in from parking areas. At Millrace Campground, "You have to walk everything into the campground from the parking area, but it's not a long walk so you can still bring all of your 'car camping' luxuries."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between sites. As Jeff E. noted at Old Mill Campground: "The bathhouse is open air over half of it. Had no soap or toilet paper and the toilets were all plugged up."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. New River Trail State Park offers "playgrounds, horse stables, pavilion, canoe area and on site security to make sure your stay is safe and enjoyable."
Check swimming options: Several sites provide swimming access. At Old Mill Campground, "They had a swimming pool and it was clean. I loved the lake. Big and beautiful. Great time on the water!"
Choose shorter hiking trails: For families with younger children, select sites with easier trails nearby. "Good hikes nearby, nothing too difficult and all are beautiful," notes a camper about the trail options near the Pearisburg area.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather can shift quickly, so pack layers for children, particularly for evening temperature drops. Daytime highs can reach the 80s while nights may drop into the 50s even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping sites near Pearisburg don't accommodate large RVs. Bull Falls Campground is an exception, allowing "tent campers as well as campers, trailers and even RV's," though this campground has been reported closed by a recent visitor.
Prepare for primitive conditions: RVers should note the lack of hookups at most sites. No electric, water, or sewer connections are available at the majority of campgrounds in this region, making it best suited for self-contained units with their own power and water.
