Best Tent Camping near Roanoke, VA

The Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Roanoke, Virginia offer several tent-only camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Dragon's Tooth campground, located near the Appalachian Trail, provides primitive tent camping with vault toilets and bear-proof trash receptacles but no drinking water. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT offers both lean-to and tent sites for hikers seeking backcountry tent camping experiences. Breeden Bottom Campground, situated on the James River about 25 miles north of Roanoke, features numbered sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and level tent pads for drive-in or paddle-in campers.

Most tent campgrounds in the region have minimal amenities, requiring campers to bring their own water and supplies. Dragon's Tooth sites include rock fire pits near the trailhead, while the actual camping area may be limited due to environmental protection measures. Dispersed camping sites off Forest Road 812 provide a more remote option with several flat areas for tents and access to hiking trails and streams. Waltons Campground offers a small, clean facility with a porta-potty, water spigot, and firewood available for purchase. Surface conditions vary from gravel parking areas to forest duff, with most sites featuring minimal grading and natural terrain.

Tent campers at Breeden Bottom report extremely private and spacious sites. According to one visitor, "Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone." The campground provides direct river access with "a good, shallow walk-in into the water." At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, campers note the large open space can accommodate multiple tents with a central fire circle. One reviewer described it as "a wonderful group site tucked back a couple miles from 501" with "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups." Cell service is limited or non-existent at most primitive tent sites, offering a true disconnect from urban life while providing access to the region's extensive trail networks.

Best Tent Sites Near Roanoke, Virginia (20)

    1. Dragon's Tooth

    3 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 552-4641

    "The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well. It is a gravel lot, pretty level. There is a little road noise until about 1030 PM."

    "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, once you begin the trail there are a few dispersed obvious camping spots"

    2. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT

    1 Review
    Hollins, VA
    10 miles
    Website

    "You get a lean-to and tent sites.

    Near water (collect water with a filter only)

    I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go.

    Lots of space for many people."

    3. Breeden Bottom Campground

    4 Reviews
    Buchanan, VA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 261-7334

    $40 - $70 / night

    "No water, no electricity available. Not for RVs. There is a railroad track that runs along the James River near the sites, but it never bothered us. Great fishing."

    "This site was in a great location and right on the crystal clear water. The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there."

    4. Willville Motorcycle Camp

    7 Reviews
    Woolwine, VA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 614-8620

    $150 - $200 / night

    "Just less than a mile west of the Blue Ridge Parkway on US 58 Business, Willville is THE motorcycle camping slot for me in Virginia.

    thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights."

    "It is motorcycle only, but he has limited space outside the campground proper for trailers should that be your thing."

    5. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    2 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream."

    "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."

    6. Waltons Campground

    1 Review
    Clifton Forge, VA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 632-0349

    $25 / night

    "There’s also a small woodshed with bundles of firewood for $5, a clean porta-potty, and a spigot."

    7. Shirleys’ River Retreat

    1 Review
    Covington, VA
    40 miles
    +1 (540) 620-7110

    $40 - $60 / night

    8. Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground)

    1 Review
    Big Island, VA
    40 miles
    +1 (434) 299-5228

    "It’s quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."

    9. Whitt Riverbend Park

    1 Review
    Ripplemead, VA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 921-0340

    $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!"

    10. Ryans Branch

    Be the first to review!
    Henry, VA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 629-1847
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Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Roanoke, VA

462 Reviews of 20 Roanoke Campgrounds



Guide to Roanoke

Roanoke, Virginia, offers a variety of tent camping options that allow outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of well-equipped sites.

Local Attractions and Scenic Views

  • Experience breathtaking views and hiking opportunities at Dragon's Tooth, where the trail connects to the Appalachian Trail and leads to stunning vistas.
  • Enjoy the serene environment of Vic Thomas Park, located along the Roanoke River, perfect for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • Discover the unique charm of Floating Heaven, featuring terraced hiking paths and quirky decor, ideal for families looking for a memorable getaway.

Tent Camping Prices

  • Tent camping at Breeden Bottom Campground typically costs around $36 per site for up to four campers, offering a peaceful riverside experience.
  • Rates at Waltons Campground are affordable, with options for cash or Venmo payments, making it convenient for campers.
  • For a unique experience, Catawba Mountain Shelter offers free camping with access to beautiful hiking trails, perfect for budget-conscious adventurers.

Amenities Tent Campers Appreciate

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Roanoke, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Roanoke, VA is Dragon's Tooth with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Roanoke, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Roanoke, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.