Camping opportunities near Pembroke, Virginia range from state park facilities to riverside dispersed sites along the New River. The area features several established campgrounds including Eggleston Springs Campground, Claytor Lake State Park, and New River Junction Campground. These offer varied accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Walnut Flats provides free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience, while White Rocks Campground offers a remote forest setting for tent and small RV camping.
Road conditions and campground amenities vary significantly throughout the region. Most developed campgrounds like Claytor Lake State Park and New River Junction feature electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, while primitive sites often provide only basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with several closing during winter months. White Rocks Campground typically operates from April through early December. Water access issues have been reported at some locations, as one camper noted: "Rundoing, overgrown and no water for 4+ years. If you go take water and something to cut the overgrowth."
Riverside camping stands out as a particular highlight for visitors to the Pembroke area. Eggleston Springs Campground and New River Junction both provide direct river access, though camping experiences can vary widely. Several campers mention train noise as a significant consideration when selecting sites. "The trains are awful for tent camping and I'm sure the thin-walled travel trailers too," reported one visitor to New River Junction. Conversely, riverside locations receive praise for their scenery and recreation opportunities. A visitor to Eggleston Springs noted: "The water is clear and so fun to cool off in." Weather conditions should be monitored closely, as flooding has affected some campgrounds in recent years, particularly those situated along the New River. Cell service is limited or non-existent at more remote sites like White Rocks Campground, making advance planning essential.
"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."
"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."
$30 - $50 / night
"This was the first campground we got to try in Virginia and it did not disappoint! There’s a lot of ppl who stay here long term bc it’s so great."
$5 / night
"Cozy little site not too far from the main highway! Checked this out on my way to Tennessee. Primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!"
"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."
"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. Plenty of shade. Closed during flood."
$35 / night
"It's secluded in the National Forest, but still really close to civilization."
$15 / night
"This is a great spot to get away from almost everything. No cell, no wifi, no hook ups, no showers. "
"There are many trails around and even a small creek. Great place!"
"There is plenty to do within walking distance or a short drive. There is hiking all around the Pipestem area. There is a lake to fish and boat on."
"Pipestem Resort State Park Southern West Virginia. We spent 4 nights here. Used this park as a base camp for New River Gorge NP. There's many other State Parks we visited too.
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"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!"
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.
Pembroke, Virginia camping opportunities extend beyond established campgrounds into free dispersed sites in the Jefferson National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,700-2,500 feet, contributing to moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Road access varies significantly depending on location, with forest service roads often requiring higher clearance vehicles.
Disc golf access: Claytor Lake State Park offers multiple recreational amenities beyond swimming and boating. "Many trails to hike well maintained. Great place for the 4th of July," notes William P., highlighting the park's appeal for holiday weekends.
Paddle activities: Explore the New River by kayak from multiple access points in the region. "We paddled around the lake on Sunday; there are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance," shares one Claytor Lake visitor.
Hiking options: White Rocks Campground connects to extensive trail systems including Appalachian Trail segments. "Lots of hiking with a short 1.3 loop mile trail right out of the campground, and several trails nearby, including a few different connectors to sections of the AT," explains Joe H.
Natural swimming: Eggleston Springs Campground offers direct river access for cooling off. "The campsite was great! Right up against the river with beautiful mountain back drop. Most camp sites have electricity and a fire pit," explains Amanda J.
Wildlife viewing: Campers report frequent deer sightings around dawn and dusk at multiple riverside locations. "We sat by the river in at the base of the tram and enjoyed the quiet serene views of folks fishing, deer grazing, and watched the sun go down," reports one camper visiting the broader region.
Campsite privacy: Walnut Flats provides free camping with well-spaced sites. "Nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole," notes one camper who stayed nearly two weeks.
Weather preparedness: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in the mountains surrounding Pembroke. Pack rain gear even for short overnight trips.
Water availability: Some campgrounds have unreliable water sources. "No water for 4+ years. If you go take water and something to cut the overgrowth," warns a White Rocks Campground visitor.
Emergency planning: Cell service is extremely limited at Camp Success and other remote campgrounds. "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," reports Sue B.
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds along the New River experience train noise throughout the night. "The trains though! My dog did not appreciate them," notes Roland R. about Eggleston Springs Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Claytor Lake was a great campground for families. We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks," shares Angela J.
Educational activities: Look for ranger programs that engage children with local ecology. "We really did not have any issues with the site itself! We got super lucky because we were the only people to use the provided bathroom as we were the only people tent camping," notes a camper at New River Junction.
Equipment rentals: New River Junction Campground offers tubing equipment and shuttle services. "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," suggests Robert J.
Site selection: Choose RV sites based on seasonal considerations. "We stayed in site 21. Full H/U. Pros: Wooded campsites, Quiet, Amenities, Picnic tables & fire rings at each site," shares one camper about sites in the broader region.
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites require substantial leveling. "Sites 1-4 are handicapped sites. There are pretty good sites, but watch the site descriptions for the incline," advises an experienced RVer.
Hookup positioning: Check utility connection placement before setting up. "Electrical hook up was on the opposite side of where they should be and in the middle of the small area. Water pressure was good and there was sewage hookups," notes one camper about regional state park camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pembroke Campground located and how do I access it?
Pembroke camping areas are located in southwestern Virginia near the New River Valley. For specific locations, Eggleston Springs Campground is accessible via drive-in and hike-in routes, situated near the Pembroke area. Another option is White Rocks Campground near Newport, which offers drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. Most campgrounds in this region are accessible via country roads, so prepare for rural driving conditions. It's advisable to check specific directions before departure as GPS signals can be unreliable in mountainous areas.
What amenities and facilities are available at Pembroke Campground?
Campgrounds near Pembroke typically offer basic to moderate amenities. Riverview Campground provides reservable sites with water and toilets, and is big-rig friendly for RVers. Walnut Flats offers free camping with water access, toilets, and can accommodate larger vehicles. Most sites in the region provide picnic tables and fire rings. For more developed facilities, you may need to venture to nearby state parks which typically include shower facilities, electrical hookups, and more extensive amenities. Availability of services varies seasonally, so it's recommended to confirm specific amenities before your trip.
What RV rental options are available in Pembroke, Virginia?
While Pembroke itself has limited RV rental options, nearby RV-friendly campgrounds offer suitable destinations for rented vehicles. Fort Chiswell RV Park provides easy highway access and is accommodating for all RV types. Dixie Caverns offers RV sites conveniently located off I-81 near Salem. For RV rentals, check with dealerships in larger nearby cities like Blacksburg, Christiansburg, or Roanoke. Many campers also use online RV rental services that offer delivery options to your chosen campground. Be sure to confirm road access restrictions before booking, as some mountain roads may have limitations for larger vehicles.
What activities and attractions are near Pembroke camping areas?
The Pembroke area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. New River Junction Campground near Blacksburg provides access to the New River for fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. At Rural Retreat Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and lakeside activities. The region features numerous hiking trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail and Cascades waterfall. Mountain biking is popular on local trails, while nearby Claytor Lake offers boating opportunities. Cultural attractions include the historic town of Blacksburg, home to Virginia Tech, and various local festivals throughout the summer months. The Blue Ridge Parkway is within driving distance, providing scenic drives and additional hiking options.
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