Several campgrounds surround Radford, Virginia, giving campers different experiences within driving distance. Grayson Highlands State Park has sites set well apart from each other with good tree cover for shade during summer months. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground puts you right by the water, which works well if you want to fish or take a boat out during your stay. If you're looking for something more basic with fewer people around, Hickory Ridge Campground tends to be quieter than the state parks. The local rangers enforce fire rules strictly in this part of Virginia, and some areas require permits, so check before you go. Both deer and black bears live in these woods - hang your food or use bear canisters to keep your campsite safe. You'll find toilets and picnic tables at most places, but facilities vary between sites. During summer and fall weekends, these campgrounds fill up fast, so book ahead if you can. The area has good mix of water activities and hiking trails depending on which campground you choose.
$24 - $459 / night
"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."
$50 - $170 / night
"Easy exit off Rt 81, with several truck stops/gas stations at the exit to fill up. The roads are a bit hilly going into the campground, but we didn’t experience any issues."
"We stayed here for 1 night, to break up an 8-hour drive home from points south. The facility is very well maintained, the staff is very friendly and the location was convenient (1 mile off of 81)."
$35 / night
"It's secluded in the National Forest, but still really close to civilization."
$30 - $45 / night
"Rocky Knob Campground is right outside of Floyd, VA off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Southwest region of the state. Why stay here? It's right outside of Floyd."
"Inner part of the loop sites are quite close to each other but have convenient access to bathhouse, which is kept pretty clean."
"just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"
"Did I say it’s close to I 81?"
$35 - $38 / night
"While driving out to the monument in his honor I found this site and loved what I saw!"
"Fort Chiswell RV park in Virginia is a very clean park beautiful trees paved driveways and a bathroom that is very clean and at the end of the bathrooms actually have tables at Pavilion They have Wi-Fi"
"Not sure about other sections of the venue but we had privacy due to the very few people in sites around a huge field that appears to be a venue for outdoor music festivals."
"This campground is located right outside of Floyd, VA and just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway."
TravelerEasily accessible, stopped here for the night when we couldn’t find an open spot in Alabama Hills. Equipped with potable water, bathrooms and a fire pit at each site. Approx 80+ sites that are decently spaced and level. Beautiful views of the sierras and easy to get to in the dark
ScoutWe stayed 2 nights in a tent by the river.
April 2026
The staff bent over backwards for us making our stay comfortable.. Had a nice camp fire each night and had access to water spigot. Very nice showering facilities and grounds very well maintained.
There was plenty of room for parking .
A lot of permanent RVs but it felt private and not a lot of noise. Really appreciated the stay.
ScoutIt is a wonderful place to camp. However, it is $15 a night not five. There is a $50 deposit to get a key to the gate. There is no potable water.
ScoutHad a great time for our first trip out in our new-to-us pop-up! Brought the dogs and had a great time.
GuideTho, no immediate fresh water pumps, walking distance water access for horses and dogs. As well as bathing down from the campgrounds. Creak water. Very spacious and scenic. The trails are near and beautiful. Lovely for horseback riding or hiking, or just tent camping. Latrine are located at campground, walking distance.
LegendWe spent two overnights— on our way south, then again north— at the Love’s RV Hookup in Elliston, Virginia.
THINGS I LIKED:
Easy access just¼ mile from I-81
Spacious, level, clean, good-working hookups, and concrete RV site
Convenient to fuel up— diesel and food
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
Plenty of noise from 24-hour truck traffic and an occasional train, but it was expected and not a problem
WOULD WE COME BACK?
Guide1st: The water pump doesn't work at location. Bring your own water. 2nd: Bring all you need before you camp out. There is one gas station to find resources 2.2 miles from campsite. If its not open you have 20-30mins drive to get to resources needed. There is 5 campsites close to each other. Constant 4 wheeling and horseback riding through sites. Your really never alone. To each their own , on privacy. Some want it, some dont mind it. Very scenic! Love the Dismal waterfalls!! Love walking trails but truly a busy site during holidays. We arrived Friday morning and sites was filled by noon. Arrive early as you can to find a camp spot. Truly well kept, trash bins and latrine is in walking distance.
ScoutVery convenient for travelers. Not a bunch of things to do in the campground if that’s your thing. Bath house is clean but dated. Some traffic noise. Did I say it’s close to I 81?
TravelerDrove here to find it closed.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find RV camping options in Radford, Virginia?
Fort Chiswell RV Park is an excellent RV option near Radford with easy highway access, making it perfect for big rigs. The park offers full hookups and is conveniently located just off I-81. Another option is Dixie Caverns, a privately owned RV park near Salem, approximately 30 minutes from Radford. While it's located near the interstate (which creates some noise), it offers the unique opportunity to explore the adjacent cavern system. Both locations are open year-round and accommodate various RV sizes, though reservations are recommended during peak summer months.
Where are the best campgrounds near Radford, VA?
Radford offers several excellent camping options nearby. Claytor Lake State Park Campground is a popular destination just minutes from Radford, offering lakeside camping with basic amenities, though privacy can be limited during peak season. For those willing to drive a bit farther, New River Junction Campground provides scenic riverside camping with water access and toilets. Also consider Sportsman Campground for a more rustic experience near the New River. These campgrounds are typically busiest during summer months, so consider shoulder seasons for a more peaceful experience.
Are there any private camping areas available near Radford?
Yes, several private camping areas surround Radford. Pioneer Village offers spacious sites with a lovely creek running along the property edge—perfect for overnight stays or longer visits. For those willing to drive a bit further, Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA provides well-maintained facilities in Virginia's Blue Ridge mountains, including private dog runs and a clean pool. Some sites also offer mountain views. Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground near Floyd is another private option offering reservable sites with water and toilet facilities about 45 minutes from Radford.
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