Camping sites near Radford, Virginia sit within the central Appalachian region at elevations between 1,700-2,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions throughout the year. The New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, flows through the area providing water-based recreation opportunities at multiple campgrounds. Spring camping often requires preparation for significant temperature fluctuations, with overnight lows dropping below 50°F even in May.
What to do
Tube the river: New River Junction Campground offers rentals for a relaxing float experience. "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.
Tour underground: Visit Dixie Caverns for a subterranean adventure just 20 minutes from Radford. "The caverns are worth visiting pretty cool cave system. We got in late in the afternoon after the last tour woke up early and caught the first tour before heading on our way," shares Shane T.
Play disc golf: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond hiking trails. "They have full hookup RV sites along with dry ones and multiple tent camping options! They also have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" explains Stafford W. about Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground.
What campers like
Riverside access: Campers appreciate sites directly on waterways. "Several RV sites located right on Beautiful New River. Tent camping also available," says Robert J. about New River Junction Campground. The water access provides cooling relief during hot summer months.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in reviews. "Clean bathrooms, well maintained overall park," notes Michael S. about Rocky Knob Campground, which sits along the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour from Radford.
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week stays offer more solitude at most campgrounds. "It's usually not crowded. The premium tent sites are huge! Clean bath house. Friendly staff!" Samuel reports about Chantilly Farm.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience significant rail traffic. "THE TRAINS: HOLY HELL. The trains alone are reason enough not to camp here. Especially with a tent. Five trains between midnight and 5am," warns Ryan B. about New River Junction Campground.
Weather preparedness: Spring and fall camping requires extra layers. "We popped the tent for a night up here and although it poured on us all night, we still loved it," shares Kaitlyn F. about Rocky Knob Campground.
Seasonal operations: Verify opening dates before traveling. "Season: May 1 to September 30" applies to New River Junction, while others like Fort Chiswell RV Park operate "Year round."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation options: Kids enjoy water features and play areas. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks," shares Angela J. about Claytor Lake State Park Campground. "The campsite was large and quiet which was nice."
Reserve well ahead: Family-friendly sites book quickly, especially during summer. "We stayed in one of the cabins offered at this park. We were very pleased and would absolutely return! The facility was very nice and cozy," reports Bran P. about Claytor Lake.
Check for kid-specific activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programs. "Fun for everyone," Matt H. says about Wytheville KOA, which features "the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool" according to Lisa T.
Tips from RVers
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds offer convenient highway access for larger rigs. "Located not too far from I-81, easy to get to. This CG does a lot of overnight business," explains Michael H. about Fort Chiswell RV Park, noting "sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient."
Size considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate large RVs easily. "We have a 35' BP and it was difficult getting it in," Miguel E. shares about Sportsman Campground, though he notes it "sits right on the river with a gas station and store onsite."
Winter camping options: Some RV sites offer heated water connections for cold weather camping. "We arrived late around 7pm and it was getting dark, our lovely Host was very kind and showed our site - It also had heated water hose so that was a big bonus," notes Rana about Chantilly Farm.
