Tent camping around Pembroke, Virginia offers access to the Appalachian Mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,700 feet. The camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows dropping to 55-65°F. Most primitive sites in Jefferson National Forest require visitors to carry water and supplies while established campgrounds provide varying levels of basic amenities.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Dragon's Tooth campground connects to one of the most challenging sections of the AT. "Dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail, there is a good amount of parking with a bathroom and garbage," notes camper Gabby & Brian V. from Dragon's Tooth.
Fishing the New River: The New River offers excellent fishing opportunities with multiple access points. "If you like hiking and fishing this is the place," reports Craig B. about East Shore Campground. Catfish are particularly abundant in certain sections.
Kayaking and boating: Camp Success provides boat ramp access to the New River. "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," notes Sue B.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded settings: Many campsites offer significant privacy from neighboring sites. "Bull Falls Campground in the Bluestone Wildlife Management Area is along the western banks of the New River, far flung from all of the other nearby campgrounds you'll find sprinkled up and down and around this river basin," reports Stuart K. about Bull Falls Campground.
Proximity to trails: The best tent camping near Pembroke, Virginia often includes direct trail access. "This was a fine place to park overnight. The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well," shares Angela D. about Dragon's Tooth.
Natural surroundings: Walnut Flats lives up to its name with distinctive trees. "Good hikes nearby, nothing too difficult and all are beautiful. The Appalachian Trail is close to the site, find some thru hikers and make some trail magic! The campground itself is pretty flat and yes there are walnut trees," notes Amber A. from Walnut Flats Campground.
What you should know
Access limitations: Some campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. "Nice campground outside Bland, VA. The road up needs a 4x4," warns Stephanie J. about Walnut Flats Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through mid-October. Walnut Flats Campground specifically lists its season as "April 1 to December 7."
Varying bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities range widely between campgrounds. "This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area," reports Juliett M. about Dragon's Tooth, while others like Bluestone State Park have more substantial facilities with noted cleanliness issues: "The bathhouse is open air over half of it. Had no soap or toilet paper and the toilets were all plugged up," according to Jeff E.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several locations offer swimming opportunities. "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," shares Mike T. about Bluestone State Park.
Accessible campsites: Look for drive-in sites that require minimal hiking for easier family setup. "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!" reports John R. about Whitt Riverbend Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of wildlife too. Great simple site representative of this part of the country," notes Amber A. about the Walnut Flats area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Pembroke offer primitive camping without RV hookups. "It is a gravel lot, pretty level. There is a little road noise until about 1030 PM," explains Angela D. about the parking at Dragon's Tooth.
Gravel surfaces: Camp Success and several other locations feature gravel parking areas suitable for smaller RVs but challenging for larger rigs. "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," notes Wendy G. from Camp Success.
Site leveling: Consider bringing leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain. "The site was decent but had trash on it," reports Jeff E. about Bluestone State Park, indicating the need for site inspection before setup.
