Blacksburg camping areas offer wooded terrain at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. River access is prominent at several campgrounds in the region, with the New River providing opportunities for fishing, tubing, and swimming during the May through September camping season. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this mountainous region.
What to do
Explore waterfall hikes: Caldwell Fields Group Campground serves as a convenient basecamp for exploring nearby trails. "Excellent Primitive Group Campsite... nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the campsite," notes John B.
Go tubing on the New River: The current at New River Junction Campground offers water recreation directly from camp. "Rent a inner tub or canoe and float down River to a shuttle bus that brings you back to the campgrounds," shares Robert J., while another camper mentioned, "They offer tubes for dogs too."
Visit caves and rock formations: Camp adjacent to underground attractions at Dixie Caverns. As Ryan C. explains, "Great price and affordable attraction that will not disappoint. Right off the interstate so easy access."
What campers like
Peaceful riverside sites: Claytor Lake State Park Campground offers water access with forested campsites. "Stayed for three nights in October... We paddled around the lake on Sunday; there are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance," reports one camper.
Wide-open campsites: Many visitors appreciate Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground for its spacious setup. "We were on top of a hill with other RV's with gorgeous views and sunsets. The grounds were very well kept and mowed," writes Joan, while another reviewer notes, "The premium tent sites are huge!"
Year-round options: Several campgrounds near Blacksburg remain open in winter. One visitor at Chantilly Farm reported, "We stayed here for one night in December... It also had heated water hose so that was a big bonus."
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Railroad tracks near campsites can disrupt sleep. At New River Junction, one camper advises, "There we're about 8 trains that passed through on our first night which led us to not sleeping well! So bring ear plugs!"
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds sit close to major roads. "You are surrounded on three sides by roadway... and all the road traffic is above the campground and the noise reverberates off the mountain and surrounding walls 24/7," explains Dave V. about Dixie Caverns.
Wildlife encounters: Camp Alta Mons sees occasional wildlife. "The first bear of the season was spotted the morning we arrived and promptly skidaddled back into the wooded mountains. Song birds are prolific and wake you early with their welcomed chorus," reports one visitor.
Seasonal bugs: Insect protection is essential, particularly at certain times. A camper at Alta Mons warns, "Bring your bug spray, mosquitos here swarm you in apocalyptic proportion at nightfall."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water recreation: Families appreciate water features at Eggleston Springs Campground. "The water is clear and so fun to cool off in," writes Destiny C., adding, "We love hearing the train go by across the river every few hrs!"
Check for ranger programs: Claytor Lake offers educational opportunities. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks... Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun," explains Angela J.
Consider playground availability: Some campgrounds lack child-specific amenities. One reviewer at New River Junction notes, "Nothing really available for younger kids to play on. No playgrounds or anything other than a few ride around toys and a basketball hoop."
Book early for holiday weekends: Family-friendly sites fill quickly, especially at state parks. At Claytor Lake, campground hosts are "meticulous" about maintaining grounds, making these spots particularly desirable for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment. At Sportsman Campground, one RVer reported, "Sites not level. Very narrow sites... Only campground close to Roanoke VA."
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient access. At Dixie Caverns, Jonathan B. notes, "We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers."
Water system considerations: Winter camping requires special attention. Chantilly Farm offers heated water hoses during cold months, which RVers find particularly valuable.
Watch for low clearance: Access to some primitive sites requires appropriate vehicles. Boley Field Group Campground warns, "I'd recommend a vehicle with decent ground clearance since you have to cross a creek and some medium sized rocks to get there."
