Camping spots near North Tazewell, Virginia range in elevation from approximately 2,300 feet at Cavitts Creek Park to over 3,500 feet at some nearby mountain campgrounds. The higher elevation sites typically experience temperature differences of 5-10 degrees cooler than the valley floor, with evening temperatures dropping significantly even during summer months. Cell service throughout the region varies considerably, with most dispersed sites offering limited to no connectivity.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks, including connections to the Appalachian Trail. "Free spot, right next to a gorgeous creek. It was totally empty in March - we didn't see a single soul. Got a beautiful campsite right on the creek," notes one Mount Rogers visitor.
Fishing in mountain streams: Little Tumbling Creek provides accessible fishing opportunities with relatively low pressure. "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek," explains a visitor to Little Tumbling Creek.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife populations including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. At Stony Fork Campground, campers report regular wildlife sightings: "Very clean, well maintained. An added plus, a national forest campground with showers!"
What campers like
Creekside tent sites: Many campers highlight the peaceful qualities of camping beside mountain streams. One camper at Stony Fork noted, "Beautiful spot right by a babbling creek that will lull you to sleep."
Wooded privacy: Stony Fork Campground offers well-spaced sites with natural screening. "The sites were spread out from each other and were private. The bathrooms were clean. The camp host directed us to where we could buy firewood," wrote one visitor.
Level camping pads: Several established campgrounds feature properly engineered pads. "Sites are a little close and sharp turns coming in. Pads are level, bathrooms are clean," reported a camper at Creekside Campground in Hungry Mother State Park.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping areas like Little Tumbling Creek lack amenities. "This is a small campsite that I believe is on hunting land. You pass a sign going in toward it that states as much... Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents. It is very secluded from people, but no tree line or anything to camp in."
Seasonal operation: Most established campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Cavitts Creek Park operates from May 1 to September 30, while some national forest campgrounds maintain longer seasons with reduced services.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Deer Trail Park Campground, a visitor noted, "If you have a big fifth wheel turning into the off road area trailer may hit box of your truck. Caution may damage your vehicles."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deer Trail Park offers multiple play areas for children. "Nice campground, has variety of accommodations including RV and tent sites and small cabins. Huge game room, heated pool and lots of recreation areas for kids. There is a stream and pond, which allows catch and release," explains a visitor.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds provide swimming access during summer months. A camper at Hungry Mother State Park mentioned, "The park is very well maintained and clean. You can hike, swim, or rent a canoe."
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Look for shorter trails with interesting features. At Grayson Highlands, one visitor reported, "There are several trails within walking distance. The park is very well maintained and clean."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Camp Burson at Hungry Mother State Park accommodates larger vehicles. "Camp Burson is a nice campground with large sites. The other campground, Creekside, is nice and secluded but no sewer hookups and road in is narrow for large rigs," advises one RVer.
Seasonal considerations: Cooler temperatures at higher elevations affect comfort. "We had unseasonably warm temperatures in October. Fall colors were just past peak. Our site was clean, spacious, level. Easily accommodated our 25 foot RV," noted a camper at Camp Burson.
Utility hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. As one RVer at Cavitts Creek pointed out, "The rate as of July 2024 is $10.50 PER TENT per night. There is no discount for only using one site with several tents."
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