Tent Camping near Ripplemead, VA

Tent camping near Ripplemead, Virginia offers primitive accommodations along the New River watershed at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,500 feet. The region receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests with mixed hardwoods providing natural shade at most campsites. Camping options vary from riverside locations with sandy terrain to more elevated forest settings with rocky substrates.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Camp Success provides direct river access where anglers can target smallmouth bass and catfish. "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," notes Wendy G.

Kayaking excursions: Whitt Riverbend Park offers tent camping with river entry points suitable for beginners. John R. mentions it's a "Cozy little site not too far from the main highway! Primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!"

Appalachian Trail access: Hiking sections of the AT from campsites provides day trip options for tent campers. "The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well," reports Angela D. about Dragon's Tooth, which serves as both an overnight camp location and trail access point.

What campers like

Natural swimming areas: Many tent sites along the New River corridor offer swimming spots with gradually sloping sandy entries. At East Shore Campground, campers appreciate "some sites along water. semi-private sites," according to Benjamin C.

Quiet surroundings: The relative remoteness of campsites provides peaceful environments away from high-traffic areas. Craig B. simply states that East Shore Campground is a "Nice getaway. If you like hiking and fishing this is the place."

Basic amenities: Walnut Flats Campground provides sufficient facilities while maintaining a rustic experience. Amber A. describes it as a "Small wooded rustic campsite. 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!"

What you should know

Access limitations: Some tent camping areas require specific vehicles or hiking capability. Stephanie J. notes about Walnut Flats: "Nice campground outside Bland, VA. The road up needs a 4x4. Nice vault toilets and a hand pump water. There are 5 sites at this location."

Seasonal availability: Most tent sites operate on limited schedules, typically closing for winter months. Walnut Flats Campground operates from April 1 to December 7, while others like the Bluestone Wildlife Management Area campgrounds run from mid-April to mid-October.

Facility conditions: Bathhouse and toilet facilities vary significantly between locations. At Old Mill Campground, Jeff E. reports, "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

Accessibility considerations: Select campgrounds with shorter walking distances from parking areas for easier setup with children. Juliett M. describes Dragon's Tooth as "a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area."

Swimming options: Locations with designated swimming areas provide safer recreation for children. Mike T. shares about Bluestone State Park: "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."

Cleanliness factors: Family campers should prepare for variable bathroom conditions. Angelica D. rates Old Mill Campground with three stars, noting "Beautiful campgrounds. Bathrooms something that could use some updating."

Tips from RVers

Tent-RV mixed camping: Several campgrounds accommodate both RVs and tents, though tent sites typically offer more privacy. Sue B. visited Camp Success but didn't camp there: "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."

Parking considerations: RVers seeking overnight parking can find suitable options at some trailheads. Angela D. mentions Dragon's Tooth has "a gravel lot, pretty level. There is a little road noise until about 1030 PM. Pretty little creek runs by the gravel lot, and there are also some campsites right off the trailhead."

Water access points: Most RV-accessible campgrounds offer boat ramps for launching watercraft. At Bluestone Wildlife Management Area, some campgrounds were previously accessible but have changed. Nolan C. reports one location "is closed and completely removed. It is still a pretty area although overgrown and there is still a boat ramp."