Are you planning a tent camping trip to Salem? We've got you covered. The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.
Be sure to adhere to camping restrictions for these areas: https://www.ratc.org/mcafee-knob-and-the-triple-crown/
This is a shelter on the AT for hikers.
The water source is downhill in front of the shelter. Not reliable during late summer or during periods of drought. There are overflow campsites just north of the shelter.
Floating Heaven is a treehouse site with a cabin. You can sleep in the small, zinc-roof-covered 'casita' or cabin, which can accommodate two adults and two (small) children. Or you can sleep on the deck platform in a hammock (we have one to rent), or a tent (bring your own or rent our 2- or 4-person tents). One platform is 10 x 10 ft. and the other is 10 x 12 ft. Eight trees pass through and support the platforms, situated 21 feet off the ground. A sturdy low-riser step leads you up (no climbing necessary). An acre of heavily forested trees and a meadow surround the site, which is not a primitive campground (i.e, far removed from civilization) but insulated from the town on the ex-urban perimeter. The term, floating heaven, refers to the tree-anchor bolts that allow the platforms to "float" when the tree canopies (60-80 feet tall) move in the wind.
We'll get you going with some kindling and a few logs; lots of down branches and tree trunks on the property for making a nice bonfire, or you can use a small fire pit (e-stove) for a cozier setting. We have tables, chairs, a very slow drip-camp shower (unheated), a biodegradable commode (one just for urinating), and a full biodegradable unit on the ground. There is a charcoal grill for your use at no charge. There is also a 3-outlet outlet for charging up your phones or using other electric devices. Ours is an ex-urban location; you are just two miles from Virginia Tech (5 minutes from Starbucks, and Mexican. pulled-pork, fast food, subs, and Thai restaurants) but you are nestled under a nice hardwood canopy. Its the best of all possible worlds.
R U L E S
1). Must arrive before sunset so we can show you around; after all, it is a treehouse and there are safety issues you should be apprised of.
2). You will forfeit your reservation if you arrive after 8 p.m without prior approval.
3). While 6 people is the maximum, the standard book rate includes 4 campers; additional campers over 12 years old should pay an extra $15 a person. Thus far, The Dyrt hasn't figured out how to pay for the fifth and sixth guests so be prepared to pay cash or via Venmo or Zelle.
4). Parents must take care that their children obey the safety features. There are trails around the property that are nicely graded and gravel-covered.
5). All electronics and loud conversation ends after 9 p.m.; sounds carry in the valley.
6). We recycle: two wastebaskets exist for trash and another for recyclables (aluminum, glass, cardboard, plastic). Please carry wastebaskets up and leave on the driveway. We'll separate and dispose of them.
7). A camping ethic to which we adhere is that you take out of the forest what you bring into it; be considerate. This is not a trailer park. Leave trash at the top of the driveway.
9.) We are proudly LGBTQ-friendly.
$55 - $80 / night
$40 - $70 / night
Motorcycle Traffic Only
Motorcycling and Camping are natural companions. Maximize your love of motorcycle travel and the great outdoors at Willville Bikecamp. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Willville is a destination, a meeting point, a base camp to explore the great Blue Ridge Parkway, or a place just to rest and relax. Motorcycle camping at Willville is ideal for a weekend run or an extended getaway.
Bunkhouse and Camping cabin including a private bike shelter now available.
Ideally located less than one mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Willville is set in an area that offers some of the best roads and scenery for the ultimate motorcycling experience.
The secluded campground sits within a 26 acre wooded park providing privacy from the main road while still offering easy access. The campground is designed for motorcycle traffic only, however, there is ample parking outside the campground (within the park) for those who wish to trailer their motorcycles.
Once in the campground, a sparkling mountain creek borders most of the shaded campsites. Individual grassy camping areas offer a comfortable and convenient location for tent setup. The sites also provide picnic tables and a nice level surface for those motorcyclists pulling trailers.
The large 770 square foot bathhouse facilities include six sinks, six showers and six toilets to get everyone off to an early start, with plenty of pressure and hot water. A spacious pavillion is available for group gatherings and cookouts.
At Willville you can chose a walk through the peaceful park, visit with the other campers or simply just relax. Plus, for exciting road trips and breath-taking scenery, don't forget about all of our fantastic roads for motorcycling.
At night gather at the group campfire to meet new friends and share your motorcycle adventures. Local attractions include Mabry's Mill, Chateau Morrisette Winery, Villa Appalachia Winery, Poor Farmer's Market, Tuggles Gap, live musicians at Floyd General Store, Virginia International Raceway, home of the AMA Superbike Nationals, the Floyd World Music Festival and many more points of interest.
Campground is open from Mid-April through October.
Willville is ideally located at the midpoint of The Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive combined. Plan a trip to Willville and maximize your Blue Ridge experience.
$150 - $200 / night
Whitt-Riverbend Park features 28 acres on the New River. The park is open to the general public for fishing, taking leisurely walks on the paved walking trail or river bottom trail, picnicking, canoeing and camping. The park features nearly a mile of river frontage. The park is located at the junction of Walkers Creek and the New River.
$5 / night
Camp in our secluded backyard right on the crystal clear Jackson River , one of the best trout fishing rivers , with the Greenbriar Resort 30 min away cross state lines . The magnificent Homestead Resort in Hot Springs right down the road . Beautiful man-made Lake MooMaw is 15 min down the road there's a few sites set up on the property first come first serve, they all are very nice . Jackson river scenic trail is right down the street , u can walk the trail or ride a bike. Which we have two available for $5 a day . Also have two kayaks you may rent to float the river for $25., As well as "Yard Yahtzee" upon request. No fishing license needed to fish on the campsite property . Anything else feel free to ask I can be reached at 5406207110
$40 - $60 / night
Located just minutes off exit 29 on I-64 in the beautiful, eastern end of Alleghany County is the newly formed Waltons Campground. This cozy, family owned and managed area offers seven rustic tent campsites and one additional site that can accommodate a small camper not exceeding 15ft in length. Providing a great balance between primitive and comfortable, Waltons Campground offers county furnished, potable water and a non-flush toilet. Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring and lantern hanger for your convenience. Parking for one vehicle per site is included within the interior of the campground with additional parking available to the left of the exit. We do not have a shower facility.
Less than 1000 ft across Nicelytown Road you will find the Sharon Park and public access to the pristine Cowpasture River where many kayak, fish, and play all summer long. The charming small town of Clifton Forge is 4 miles away. Less than 10 miles away, Douthat State Park hosts a lake for swimming and fishing, numerous hiking trails, and many other family friendly activities.
Your reservation is not site specific unless you are bringing a small camper. Campsites 1-7 are tent sites, picked on arrival. Campsite 8 is the only camper site.
You may conveniently pay for your stay using Venmo @WaltonsCampground or pay on arrival in the drop box on the side of the firewood stand. Drop your envelope with the reservation name and amount due. Need firewood for your stay? We have $5 bundles, $10 bin and $20 bin options available for purchase. You may use the cash drop box for this, as well.
For GPS directions please use 4017 Nicelytown Road, Clifton Forge, VA. The campground entrance is directly across from this address. Enter from Nicelytown and exit on Firehouse Circle.
For DAY OF reservations, call or text 540-632-0349 or message us on Facebook! We look forward to seeing you!
$25 / night
Traveler
On BRP near Floyd, VA. A lot of amenities in town and hiking trails nearby. Clean and quiet: no generators allowed in tent camping area and quiet hours after 10pm. Tent sites $20 per night at time of my stay.
Legend
Dixie Caverns is a privately owned campground, slash tourist site ( dixiecaverns.com ) located at the outskirts of Salem, VA.
Warning: In the website, they do state the campground is "directly off I-81," and it is. The fact is, you are surrounded on three sides by roadway...and the actual Dixie Cavern is at the base of a mountain, so all the road traffic is above the campground and the noise reverberates off the mountain and surrounding walls 24/7. Trust me when I say, semi-truck noise is loud during the twilight hours when the din of the day has disappeared.
We spent two different multiple-day stays at Dixie Caverns in the Spring, partly out of necessity and partly because of its close proximity to a desired venue in Salem. So I can attest to the traffic noise never letting up.
The Positive: Dixie Caverns Campground serves a need...a campground close to Salem. The next closest campground is an hour's drive and in heavy traffic...longer. It is also one of the closest campgrounds to several of Virginia's most popular hiking trails (AT) and scenic overlooks (Dragon's Tooth, Tinker Cliffs, etc). So people will use this as a "base camp" of sorts.
The personnel that run the Dixie Cavern Gift Shop, are also those you see to pay for a camping site...and I found them very friendly and helpful.
If you are visiting there to tour the Dixie Caverns...you are a hundred feet away from the mountain doorway.
The campground is tiny, as in footprint, but they have carved out a number of RV/Camper sites along the mountain base and the inner loops...and during our stays very few openings were observed. Water, electric and cable is provided at each of those pull-through sites. They are of adequate size for the largest of RV's, but they are side-by-side the length of the loop. No vegetation exists between or on those sides but some grass and some spaced large trees. Perhaps the RV/Camper clan camp there out of necessity and convenience too. Though there is a limit on the days of your stay, it appears that some are exempt from this rule. Some campers are permanent fixtures...others that were not, were still in the same location from the first visit to the next visit 30 days later. Several employees live full-time on site.
Tent camping is in the grass along the creek that runs down to the Roanoke River across the roadway. During the heavy rains we received, I had concerns that this raging creek would overflow its banks, but it did not. Trash was visible washed along its banks. The sites are marked only by a picnic table and rock fire ring...no other designation, so you chose a side of the fire ring to pitch your tent. Even with the heavy rains, I did not notice low, soggy areas. There is several large hardwood trees that provide a nice canopy, but no foliage between tenting areas...so the entire campground is line of sight. I believe there were only six tent sites (technically), but overflow tent sites are also along the grassy field across from the Gift Shop. Important note: If you are considering a good night's sleep in a tent (not sure of the sound dampening qualities of RV/Campers), ear-plugs are a must!
The showerhouse/restroom are located at the beginning of the campground, which is just the other side of the day use picnic area and the Gift Shop/Attraction parking lot. The doors are locked 24/7 and only campers receive the "push-button" door code (which the code did not change from both visits...not a secure safety protocol). The showerhouse/restroom has running water, flush toilets and several showers, and an electric outlet. It shows its age and looks like a heavily used campground facility. For tent campers, its the only potable water source.
There is both cell service and free wifi...which is amazing! I can count on my one finger how many campgrounds in W.VA and VA that had cell service.
The Negative: You must leave the campground for anything you'd like to do, other than the Caverns...and sitting in your camp chair.
There are no trails or other amenities...and the trails closeby...are still a 20-30 minutes drive on a good day.
Whether or not tenters are in the tent area, this is the dog walking area. They are required to pick up...but it is aggravating...because if it doesn't pour, the smell remains.
Did I mention the truck traffic noise? The overall condition of Dixie Caverns appears dated, a bit run-down, and dirty.
Would I stay there again? Odds are I will spend one more collegiate softball post season and World Series staying at Dixie Caverns Campground next spring, purely out of convenience and necessity.
Scout
Nice and clean area as far as tent camping, beautiful area all and all. Would return for sure.
Guide
Campground Review
As a Ranger on The Dyrt, I sometimes receive compensation for reviewing campgrounds like this one. Middle Creek Campground is the perfect place to use as a base camp for all of the outdoor activities in the area. Getting here was a lot easier than expected. The campground is only 6 miles off the I-81 Arcadia exit. We were quickly in the Jefferson National Forest where the road winds through the forest along Jennings Creek. It was absolutely gorgeous. Around every turn we saw fishermen wading into the water or sitting on the banks.
Check-in is at the fully stocked camp store where you'll likely be greeted by the two resident dogs. They mostly lazed around all weekend and watched people coming and going. The RV sites are directly across from the camp store, but the tent sites were tucked back into the woods. The upper tent campground was closed for renovations during our stay, so we chose from the 8 or 9 sites located in the lower tent campground. All of the sites were roomy and featured a small fire pit, picnic table, water, and electricity. Several of them even had a pull-through site and would work well for a small pop-up. Bonus: most of the lower tent sites have direct access to the creek! There were only four other tent sites occupied the whole weekend. It was very quiet and peaceful.
We chose site #76 because the creek wound around the back of the campsite and had a gentle slope leading down to the creek. We knew our dogs would love splashing around in it! Once we got everything set up I realized that the site was bigger than I'd originally thought. There was more than enough room to set up our Kingdom 4 tent, 10' canopy, and camp kitchen to glamp in style. We brought a 15' lead for the 2yo beagle so he could go down to the creek on his own or hang out with us. Even at the end of his lead he was nowhere close to the road. Check out the video below for a 360' view!
The bathhouse was at the back of the camp store. Like the rest of the campground, the facilities aren't fancy, but they are functional and clean. Both men's and women's featured two showers where the water was nice and hot! There are even washers and dryers around the corner.
Firewood is available for purchase onsite. We paid $7 for a bundle at the camp store, and it was delivered to our site just a few minutes later. The bundle was huge! We had more than enough wood for two cooking fires.
Because our visit was so early in the year, we weren't able to access most of the amenities. There is a good-sized pool and pavilion on a hill behind the camp store. Right beside that is the swimming pond with two large slides in the middle, plus a small beach. There is another lake at the front of the campground designated for fishing. There are no trails in this campground, so if you want to hike, you'll need to drive about a mile out to where the Appalachian Trail meets Jennings Creek. Or, drive to one of many trail heads within the National Forest. There are also plenty of pull-off spots along the road if you want to wade into the creek.
During our stay, we observed the staff cleaning, fixing, and getting ready for camping season. The bathrooms got a fresh coat of paint. The roads through the campground were recently groomed with new crushed gravel. All of the picnic tables and sidewalks were being power washed. The game room was also being renovated! 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 and to let it run for a bit since it had been off all winter. That made it much easier to wash dishes in a bucket at camp. There isn't a wash station in the campground for doing dishes, so we had to improvise the first night. The biggest turn-off for us at the campground was the RV section right across from the camp store. It seemed like the sites were really packed in there, one on top of the other. I've never been RV-ing before, so I'm not sure if this setup is typical, but I wanted to point it out.
All of the staff that we came into contact with were super friendly and helpful. We were immediately made to feel welcome. It felt like spending the weekend with friends and neighbors instead of strangers.
Product Review
As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time - today I am testing Nature's Coffee Kettle with Colombian Arabica Coffee. I am completely unable to start my day without coffee even when I'm sleeping in the woods. Nature's Coffee Kettle is a packable system that provides you with delicious, pour-over coffee in the backwoods. The "kettle" is a specially designed pouch with two sections. The top section holds the pre-filled coffee filter in place while you slowly pour hot water over the grounds. It features a zip-top so you can close it up while you're waiting for the magic to happen.The bottom section is the reservoir that holds all of that coffee goodness. Coffee refills are also available separately. The entire system packs flat for storage in a camp tote or in your backpack.
The directions on the back of the bag are super clear and even contain pictures. The key to making the perfect brew with Nature's Coffee Kettle is time. Don't rush it. This is not instant coffee. It is the real deal and will be worth every minute. Slowly pour 1 cup of hot water over the filter, zip up the top and let it sit for a minute or two so the grounds can soak up all of that water. This is the most important step. Then, unzip the top, and keep slowly adding the rest of the water. How much water? I used my coffee mugs to measure out the right amount of water into the kettle before boiling. After you've poured all the water into the bag zip it up again and let it sit. Then, just twist off the cap and pour!
The pouch is reusable, so don't toss it out. Dispose of the filter and rinse out the pouch. It will be ready to go the next time you need some caffeine. Nature's Coffee Kettle comes in a variety of coffee flavors as well as orange pekoe black tea, apple cider, and hot chocolate.
TravelerThunder BRidge is a unique property tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Near Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia, the campground was once a CCC camp. Now it is home to many quiet tent sites, screen cabins, log cabins, and even some fully furnished rental cabins.
The campground is about 60% wooded, the rest is open ground with buildings from the camp's earlier days. The open area includes several artists' studios. At one edge is a forest creek, great for wading.
The campground is mostly tenting sites and rustic cabins, but there are RV sites in the open area.
This is not a "resort" but you won't find a more beautiful, quiet campground!
Traveler
Stayed in tent sites…Overlanding in my Jeep…single woman..felt safe Campground hosts were wonderful! Clean area
Traveler
Great family friendly camper and tent sites overlooking Moncove Lake. Electric hookups and water spickets available. Fishing and swimming and hiking trails.
Guide
Tent sites on the river, RV sites, RV and cabin rentals and float trips. Lots of space for kids to play.
Scout
The park itself is well maintained. Bath houses were clean. Tent sites are really close together. A little overpriced for what you’re getting compared to other areas in my opinion.
Scout
We tent camped at site A1 and had so much room and privacy. Sites are backed up against pond so there were people fishing here and there, but we weren't too bothered after a certain time. Campground offers family showers and a few kid friendly activities.
Guide
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.
Not too far from McAfee knob.
Scout
My wife and I like to frequent this campground because it’s not too far from home. It’s usually not crowded. The premium tent sites are huge! Clean bath house. Friendly staff!
One negative, the firewood they sell is next to impossible to light.
Traveler
Several RV sites located right on Beautiful New River. Tent camping also available. 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. One of my all time favorite places to camp and fish.
Guide
It was as little off the beaten path but the roads were good. All of the sites were wooded, the outside loop sites had more privacy since your door opened to the lake/woods. You have water and electric in the RV sites and I think there are more tent sites, dry sites, which can also be used for RV's than there are water and electric. Most of the tent sites are right along the lake. The RV sites tended to be higher and a little farther from the water but in sight. It seemed that most sites required a little help to get level. Bath house was fairly close and very clean. They have a couple of nice beach areas for playing abound in the water with picnic tables and fire pits nearby. Did want to mention that they provided 30 amp service vs the 20 amp shown here.
TravelerThe tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms. It stormed our first night, and the raised gravel tent platforms prevented us from flooding. It was quiet and peaceful, and we will definitely be back!
TravelerGreat spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat. Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet. I had issues finding out if pets were allowed... they are! My dog and I had an awesome time and we will be back for sure.
TravelerThis campground is located right outside of Floyd, VA and just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a beautiful venue with rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking 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!
Traveler
Nice family owned campground with site by a babbling brook. 4 private bathrooms that are very clean at a centrally located cabin. The RV side is one one half with tent camping on the other. We got in late our first night and went to a super cute restaurant right down the street called meat, fork &cork. Nice owners. Would definitely return. They also give a AAA discount
Scout
We camped on a busy fall weekend. The campground has Halloween themed activities for kids on specific weekends. We were there for one of these weekends. It’s geared for younger kids(10 and under).
We had a tent site with water and electricity. There’s a bath house. There are other amenities, some of which were closed due to COVID.
ScoutThe staff were very friendly! The campsite was perfect! Having the river view and access was beyond great! We really did not have any issues with the site itself! We got super lucky because we were the only people to use the provided bathroom as we were the only people tent camping. So that was super nice! Disclaimer- There we’re about 8 trains that passed through on our first night which led us to not sleeping well! So bring ear plugs! Happy camping!
GuideIt was still off season when we stayed and it was very quiet. The staff was extremely friendly and the campground was super clean! There was plenty for kids to do playground, pool, jump pillow, fishing pond and hiking trails. The tent site was amazing right by the pond. The fire pit has a grate for cooking. It is very close to many hiking trails. We will definitely go back again.
Guide
Normally we camp with our tent, but we decided to make the trip to check out Natural Bridge State Park at the end of December. Never quite sure what the weather is like we were able to get a one room camping cabin. It was perfect for our family of three plus two dogs. Our toddler was throughout entertained by exploring everything around us and we would have visits by a black cat. Can't wait to go back and check out their tent sites.
TravelerBeen here a few times as campers and as guests. They have play grounds, mini golf, a game room, air pillow, a pool with a kids area and water slides. If that isn’t enough, there is a lake with a big blow up slide and more in the center and also has river access. You can get free life jackets to use and can rent out boats for the river. They also do lots of activities for kids and families to participate and have fun. There is a small market on site, and a cafe with a grill. You can camp in a tent, RV/camper or you can rent a cabin. You are also right by Natural Bridge State Park and Dixie Caverns. Zoofari and more. So there is also plenty to do right around the area as well.
Traveler
As for the overall campground, 10/10! Bathrooms are clean and what you’d expect a campground bathroom to be. Waterfront beach available, hiking trails, two piers and a theater spot with a gorgeous view. We did show up right after a huge storm, and because the electric was out the bathrooms were inaccessible. They quickly got port-a-potties until the issue was resolved. I will say if you are a tent camper like us, site 35 is the best site to avoid noisy neighbors, and is right by the bathrooms. The c loop is gorgeous but the sites are very close together for tent campers and you can very much hear everyone else. Site 1 looks amazing for tent camping also, although the bottom loop books up far in advance.
GuideWe stayed in 2020, first time at this campground and will definitely stay again. Very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, plenty of places to hike, and Natural Bridge is a must see. Plenty to do at the campground - corn hole, pool, playground, etc. We stayed in a pull-thru full-hookup site, they also have tent sites and cabins. The campsites are close together, but a nice place; staff are very nice. We have a toy-hauler and this is a great place to bring your motorcycles if you want to enjoy a great ride with beautiful scenery!
GuideI grew up on this campground. It was my home away from home during the summer for Years. I knew the original owner/creator of this campground. I visit here and it brings back so many memories.
It’s a great campground with kayak and canoe trips. Lots of fishing and swimming available. Tubing is the best trip from Ronceverte to the Campground on the Greenbrier River if you have a full day to just unplug and take in all the sites, sounds and smells around you.
Just ignore the train that runs through across the River.
Lots to do here with tent camping, RV, cabin rentals and even some nostalgic RV rentals.
RangerThe Greenbrier River RV Park campground was fine. It was right on the Greenbrier River and you could do float, kayak and canoe trips from the campground. There were full hook-up sites and tent sites (right on the river). The sites were pretty big and most were shaded. It was close (less than 15 minutes) to Lewisburg and to the Greenbrier River Trailhead in Caldwell. There were no walking paths or bike paths in the campground which was my only issue. Some people didn't like the trains that passed by periodically, but I like trains so no complaints here. We took a day to explore the New River Gorge National Park. Beautiful!
Tent camping near Salem, Virginia offers a variety of scenic locations and unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Salem, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Salem, VA is Dragon's Tooth with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Salem, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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