Nestled in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, Rocky Mount experiences a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F while fall brings vibrant foliage displays starting in mid-October. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures, with most tent campsites in the region closing from late November through March.
What to do
Fishing at Philpott Reservoir: Salthouse Branch Campground provides direct access to this well-stocked body of water. "We were only there mid week and it was very quiet. The launch ramp was adjacent to the campsite and while we could have portaged our kayak to the ramp, there is an ample parking lot ramp-side. Philpott reservoir is magnificent!" notes Patrice, who stayed at Salthouse Branch Campground.
Stargazing: The rural setting around Rocky Mount offers minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. At Smith Mountain Lake State Park, campers report exceptional evening views. "Boy are there some amazing stars out here," shares Jonny D., who visited Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground.
Disc golf: Some regional campgrounds now offer this increasingly popular activity. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" reports Stafford W. about Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue, located just outside Floyd and minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Several access points exist within a short drive of Rocky Mount. Near Otter Creek Campground, a camper shares, "The Otter Creek Trail was challenging but definitely doable. Highly recommended for outdoor youth groups that want to unplug and get back to basics."
What campers like
Private creek-side camping: Many campsites in the region feature water access. "We had a fabulous site tucked beside a little brook, very peaceful and quiet. But even if there had been more campers around, the sites are a bit more generous than your average private campground," writes Lisa about Middle Creek Campground.
Swimming options: Beyond natural water bodies, some campgrounds offer developed swimming areas. "There is a beach volleyball court, a kids water area and a free swimming water area," notes a visitor to Claytor Lake State Park. The park includes beach access with swimming areas that campers can access free with their camping pass.
Motorcycle-specific accommodations: Willville Motorcycle Camp provides specialized facilities for two-wheel travelers. "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment," reports Brian F. about his stay at Willville Motorcycle Camp.
Level camping pads with good drainage: After heavy rain, quality tent sites make a significant difference. Andrea N. notes of Middle Creek Campground: "The tent pads at this campground are excellent and drain well. It poured for hours but our site stayed dry for the most part."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Not all campgrounds in the area operate year-round. "Our main season is March 15ish to the end of November," states Middle Creek Campground, though they do offer water/electric/sewer sites all year. Many tent-focused facilities close during winter months.
Alcohol restrictions: Some properties prohibit alcohol consumption. At Salthouse Branch Campground, Anne F. reports: "The police visited us because we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the Blue Ridge region have minimal connectivity. "No cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!" shares Katie M. about Fairy Stone State Park.
Water hookup timing: Early spring campers should confirm utility status. Andrea N. notes: "Downside: we didn't have water at our site the first day. About half-way through the second day one of the workers came around to let us know they were turning it on."
Tips for camping with families
Look for interactive ranger programs: State parks often offer educational activities. Russell C. says of Fairy Stone State Park Campground: "Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
Choose campgrounds with diverse recreational options: Some facilities cater specifically to families. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, a camper named Bridget H. shares: "There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!"
Consider glamping close to Rocky Mount, Virginia for first-time family trips: For families new to outdoor stays, glamping offers comfort with wilderness proximity. "We stayed in Yurt#4 for 2 nights at Fairy Stone State Park. The inside of the Yurt has a full size bed with a twin sized trundle bed that rolls under the full. It also had some rocking chairs inside, a small table and chairs, and a couch," describes one visitor.
Reserve early for holiday weekends: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer holidays and fall foliage season. Premium glamping accommodations near Rocky Mount typically book 3-6 months in advance.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions to remote campgrounds: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. At Salthouse Branch Campground, one RVer cautions: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Verify site lengths and levelness: Site dimensions vary widely between campgrounds. "Very nice and quiet place to spend a few days. Sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did manage our 41' in there... they do have some lrg back in FHU sites if you need but not many," advises Lawrence P. about Salthouse Branch.
Consider proximity to amenities: Campground layouts affect convenience. Regarding Fairy Stone State Park, one visitor notes: "Washrooms are at quite a distance from this site so we were glad to be completely self-contained. Accessibility to both beach swimming areas is risky for those needing to use a cane or crutches."
Reserve sunny sites for Starlink users: For those requiring satellite internet, Meadows Of Dan Campground offers suitable options. "We needed a clear sky to the NNE for Starlink, and found the perfect spot—technically an RV site, but it worked great for our tent for one night. It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north," reports Denis P.
