Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Sugar Grove, VA
Hurricane Campground features spacious, pet-friendly sites nestled alongside a creek with trout fishing opportunities. Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, this campground allows dogs throughout its wooded camping areas. The campground has both vault toilets and flush toilets with showers, though water availability can occasionally be limited due to well issues. Sites are first-come, first-served and accommodate both tents and smaller RVs, with several secluded spots available near the forest edge. The campground sits at the end of a steep paved road that doubles as part of the Appalachian Trail, making it common to see through-hikers with their dogs passing through the area. The sites get particularly beautiful during fall when the oak and hemlock canopy displays vibrant colors.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers free dispersed camping options along creeks where pets can cool off during warmer months. Multiple roadside camping spots are available just off Highway 58, with the sound of the creek often drowning out road noise. Each site typically has an established fire ring, though no picnic tables or toilet facilities are provided. Campers need to bring water filters for creek water and portable toilets for sanitation. The area provides excellent access to pet-friendly outdoor activities, with the Virginia Creeper Trail, Whitetop Laurel Creek, and Appalachian Trail all within three miles. Dogs should remain leashed in most areas due to wildlife and the presence of wild ponies in parts of the recreation area. The best access to these free camping areas is along Highway 58 toward Damascus, not at the main forest office location.
