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Saltville, Virginia provides access to a variety of mixed-use campgrounds throughout the Mount Rogers area and Jefferson National Forest region. Hungry Mother State Park offers several camping loops including Royal Oak Campground and Camp Burson, with tent platforms, RV sites with hookups, and even cabin accommodations. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at Little Tumbling Creek and throughout the Washington & Jefferson National Forest, while developed campgrounds like Grindstone Recreation Area and Hurricane Campground provide additional options. The combination of established sites and primitive camping areas creates flexibility for different experience levels and equipment needs.
Most developed campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with Hurricane Campground and Grindstone Recreation Area closing in November. Winter camping options are limited, though some areas like Hungry Mother State Park remain open year-round. Road access varies significantly between sites, with dispersed areas often requiring higher clearance vehicles. Amenities range from full hookup sites at Camp Burson to primitive facilities at Little Tumbling Creek. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the mountainous terrain, particularly at more remote sites. A review mentioned that "Absolutely no Verizon service at the site" when describing Little Tumbling Creek, highlighting the remote nature of some camping areas.
The campgrounds near Saltville feature diverse water access, with multiple sites positioned along creeks and lakes. Hungry Mother State Park includes a swim beach, fishing piers, and boat rentals centered around Hungry Mother Lake. Many campers note the therapeutic quality of waterside camping, with one visitor sharing that "The roar of the creek at the base of the campground is very therapeutic." Hiking opportunities abound throughout the region, with trail access directly from many campgrounds. Sites vary in privacy levels - Camp Burson offers spacious but less private sites, while dispersed options provide more seclusion. Wildlife viewing, fishing, and mountain scenery constitute primary attractions across both developed campgrounds and primitive camping areas. Elevation changes create diverse microclimates throughout the region, with higher sites offering cooler temperatures even during summer months.
"We stayed here for an overnight stop on our road trip through Virginia, and it was lovely!"
"Hungry Mother State Park, just a short drive off I-81 in southwestern Virginia, is an easily accessible gem offering modern cabins, yurts, and campgrounds equipped for tents or RVs, with limitless activities"
from $27 / night
Check Availability"With camping just a moderate day hike away from Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, this campground is a hiker's paradise."
"Campground Review: There are two campgrounds in Grayson Highland SP which is located by The Mouth Of Wilson, VA, near the North Carolina border."
from $27 - $98 / night
Check Availability"Doesn’t get much more relaxing, electric, water hook-ups and a short drive to downtown Damascus VA.. AT, Virginia Creeper, White Top Mountain and Mount Rogers all near by."
"We like to hike and there are TONS of trails in this area. One trail leaves directly from the campground and will bring you to the top of Mt. Rogers, also intersecting with the Appalachian Trail."
from $24 - $36 / night
Check Availability"The town of Marion has what you need and nearby towns, like Saltville, with its museum, are fun to explore."
"This was our first visit to a Virginia State Park and we were impressed."
from $37 - $41 / night
Check Availability"Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, this campground is close to enough activities to fill a whole week of outdoor fun!"
"Large secluded campsites surrounded by rhododendron bushes with a mountain spring creek meandering through the campgrounds."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"Amazing little campground in the heart of Mount Rogers recreational area in Western Virginia. Wonderful fall colors crisp, clean, mountain air was totally the best!"
"This camp ground is located well off any main roads under a nice quiet canopy of Hemlocks and Laurel trees. Easy walking distance to several well maintained and very clean outhouses."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping."
"At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."
"Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night."
from $28 - $43 / night
Check Availability"Close to charming Abingdon VA with great local restaurants, the Barter Theater and the Virginia Creeper Trail."
"There are about 8-10 sites that are right behind the pool and more sites down a short hill all along the river. This campground accommodates tents, pop ups and RV's comfortably."
from $28 - $40 / night
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ScoutWe arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
GuideIt was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
GuideDoe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
TravelerThe lake is so beautiful if you catch it at the right time of day it’s like l looking into a mirror dimension because it’s so clear.
TravelerBeautiful decor and extremely clean interior. The bed is very comfortable and linens are crisp and inviting. You can tell they don't harsh products because your skin is not itchy. The kitchen accommodations are perfect for a family with refrigerator, microwave and gas grill included with every cabin. The jacuzzi tub is a nice touch. Plenty of towels and even robes to use!
The rocking chairs on the back porch allow you to sip coffee, while watching trout swim in Chestnut Creek. The exteriors are clean as well. The grounds are natural and well maintained. There is also a nice common area with chairs and a firepit with wood to use.
The staff was pleasant and helpful.
We went to the local movie theater and a splash pad and park for the kids in town. The downtown 4th of July parade was wonderful! We rode the Blue Ridge Parkway which is very close by and enjoyed live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center. The cabins are about 30 minutes to Mt. Airy (Mayberry). Local antiques, coffee shops, specialty stores are abundant. Car Shiws on Thursday monthly downtown and BINGO at the Moose Lodge here in Galax is the best which is on Tuesdays. If you are an antique lover or picker don't miss my favorites, many in downtown Galax and a couple coffee shops and make sure you go to "Nest and Hive" in Fancy Gap and "The River House And Home Company" in Hillsville. You won't regret it!
I've been coming here for 20 years and will 20 more. The mountains are calling!
ScoutThe owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
TravelerBeautiful scenery right next to the Russell Fork River! A solid 5 stars for the campground & staff. You don’t have to worry about the fun police monitoring your every action. Very budget friendly, they have the cheapest rates that I could find around the area. It’s really laidback & peaceful. You can sit at camp & relax while you drink your favorite beverage, enjoy your favorite smoke, just keep it to yourself & don’t raise hell. Or you could hit the Russell Fork for some awesome river activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, etc. At check-in you get the free Wi-Fi password & a bundle of wood for your fire pit. It’s a great getaway & I thoroughly enjoyed my stay & look forward to coming back. The only downside is that they need more shade options for the back tent sites to beat the summer heat. I highly recommend Thunder River Campground!!⛺️
ScoutThis campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
TravelerPlace seams tidy. Spots are nicely appointed, in that they are slightly separated.
The camping areas near Saltville, Virginia range in elevation from 1,800 to 5,700 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Many sites in the higher elevations can be 10-15 degrees cooler than valley locations even during summer months. Forest Service roads accessing dispersed camping often require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall.
Trout fishing opportunities: Rainbow Campground provides direct access to stocked waters. "An amazing Campground, and area! This is early March with decent water levels, The Roar of the creek at the base of the campground is very therapeutic. They stock the creek twice a month with trout, it was stocked 80 ft from my tent 2 days ago..." reports one camper at Rainbow Campground.
Paddle sports on mountain lakes: Beartree Campground offers calm waters for beginners. "We use the lake for paddle boarding or kayaking and we bike on the Va Creeper trail, the local mountain bike and hiking trails adjacent to the campground or just bike down to the lake and back," describes a frequent visitor to this quiet recreation area.
Wildlife viewing beyond ponies: While wild ponies are a major attraction at Grayson Highlands, Hurricane Campground provides different wildlife encounters. "We stayed 2 nights but would have liked to stay longer. Really good access to the AT, we saw no one for 6 miles except a bear," shares a hiker who explored the remote trails from Hurricane Campground.
Therapeutic water sounds: Multiple campsites near Saltville feature creekside locations that provide natural white noise. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, campers appreciate the natural soundscape: "Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night."
Digital disconnection: The lack of connectivity creates an authentic wilderness experience in many areas. "You are truly away at Beartree," explains one reviewer about Beartree Campground. "There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high," reports another camper about dispersed sites.
Site privacy through natural features: Many campgrounds use landscape elements for separation. "The sites were built in a forest of rhododendron and there is so much privacy compared to most other campgrounds. As a result, it seems quieter," notes a long-time visitor to Beartree Campground.
Weather unpredictability: Mountain elevations experience rapid condition changes. "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," advises a visitor to Grayson Highlands.
Seasonal variations in facilities: Most campgrounds reduce services during cooler months. "We were there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," warns a camper at Hickory Ridge Campground.
Road challenges: Access to more remote sites often requires preparation. "I took 650 from the north west, which turns out to be a 4 mile stretch of gravel road - which my little car had a rough time handling," cautions a visitor to Hurricane Campground.
Firewood and water sources: Services vary significantly between established and dispersed sites. "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared," explains a camper regarding Washington & Jefferson National Forest dispersed sites.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There is a nice area for a picnic with swings and other things for kids," notes a visitor to Riverside Campground.
Swimming options for different ages: Water features vary in depth and safety. "The river is perfect! It's not too deep so the kids can play in it. Fairly easily accessed from many areas at the campground," explains a family that enjoyed Riverside Campground.
Educational opportunities: Historical and natural features provide learning experiences. "Plenty to keep kids and adults alike entertained, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area," suggests a reviewer about Hickory Ridge Campground.
Site positioning considerations: Some campgrounds offer better RV-friendly options than others. "Even-numbered hookup sites 60-70 are also right on the meadow with very little shade," notes a visitor to Hickory Ridge Campground regarding site selection.
Tree clearance challenges: Vegetation can create hazards for larger vehicles. "The only problem we had were that some of the trees need to be trimmed back and scratched the upper sides of our coach," cautions an RV owner at Camp Burson.
Road navigation warnings: Access routes may present difficulties for larger rigs. "The road in is steep, winding and has a very sharp turn. I made it with 38' RV with toad," reports a Camp Burson visitor, providing valuable insight for those with larger vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the River Retreat in Saltville, VA and what amenities does it offer?
While specific information about River Retreat in Saltville is limited in our sources, the Saltville area offers several waterside camping options. Hidden Valley WMA provides camping near the water's edge with fire rings, bear bins, and portable toilets. This free camping option (requiring only a Virginia Wildlife Access pass) offers peaceful waterside experiences. Similarly, Riverside Campground located on the north fork of the Holsten River provides a quiet setting for families and is close to local attractions in the region.
What campgrounds are available near Saltville, VA?
Several quality campgrounds surround the Saltville area. Camp Burson Campground — Hungry Mother State Park offers large sites with full hookups and is family-friendly. For a more budget-friendly option, Rainbow Campground provides drive-in access with water and toilet facilities. Other nearby options include Sugar Hollow Campground with nature-forward spots for smaller rigs, and Pioneer Village with creekside camping. For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is available in Washington & Jefferson National Forest along Bear Creek.
What activities and attractions can I enjoy while camping in Saltville, VA?
Saltville offers diverse recreational opportunities for campers. The town's museum is a must-visit attraction, providing insights into local history and culture. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park serves as an excellent base for hiking to Mount Rogers, Virginia's highest point. The Backbone Rock Recreation Area, just across the state line, provides access to hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling along Beaver Dam Creek. The nearby Virginia Creeper Trail offers scenic biking, while the charming town of Abingdon features local restaurants and the historic Barter Theater.
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