Camping opportunities around Troutdale, Virginia cover elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 5,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region. Most campgrounds in this mountainous area sit between 3,000-4,000 feet, offering cooler summer temperatures that typically run 10-15 degrees below surrounding valleys. Cell service remains spotty or non-existent throughout most of the region's campgrounds, particularly in the more remote areas.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: The streams near Hurricane Campground provide excellent fishing access. "This is a beautiful campground located alongside a stream with trout fishing. Site#2 in particular is susceptible to flash flooding, but if the forecast is for dry weather, it would be hard to beat this site," notes one visitor.
Local driving tours: While staying at regional campgrounds, many campers take advantage of the scenic mountain drives. A camper at Royal Oak Campground recommends: "Two things to do while your here is ONE: check out DIP DOGS a very popular and busy restaurant and TWO: the 'Back of the Dragon' an AWESOME DRIVING TOUR across the mountains from Marion to Tazewell, VA."
Multi-day backpacking: The area serves as a gateway to extended wilderness trips. A camper at Hickory Ridge states: "Several Backpacking sites just past Mt. Rogers summit trail. Worth a few nights stay." Another adds: "The Appalachian Trail can be easily accessed here and there are several backcountry camping options along the trail."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature natural separation between campsites. One camper at Beartree Campground shares: "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."
High elevation cooling: The mountain location provides natural air conditioning during summer months. A camper at Grindstone noted: "We were here 2 years ago in cottontail loop. RR maintained. Has fallen a bit but cg is beautiful and cool. Creeper trail is a must do."
Creek sounds: Many campsites feature the ambient noise of moving water. One visitor to Hurricane Campground appreciated "having the sound of the river right next to our site." Similarly, a Beartree camper mentioned: "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."
What you should know
Water concerns: Some campgrounds experience occasional water system issues. A Hurricane Campground visitor noted: "There were showers, but when we were there there was a problem with the well, and we were advised to be careful about how much water we used."
Digital detox required: Most campgrounds lack connectivity. A camper at Helton Creek Campground describes it as a "Wonderful small campground away from everything!" Another camper at Grindstone states: "If you want to escape it all, this campground is for you! There is no cell phone service."
Variable weather conditions: The high elevation makes for unpredictable conditions. A Chestnut Hollow camper warns: "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. One visitor noted: "I wish I had known that the best route into the campground is 16 to 650. Instead, 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."
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping options: Some campgrounds offer elevated sites ideal for tent camping with children. A visitor to Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground describes: "Royal Oak is very steep with deck like structures at each site to set up on. Royal Oak is used primarily for tents."
Kid-friendly wildlife viewing: Many families visit specifically for animal encounters. A camper recalls: "We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day! Great facilities and located very close to Wilbur ridge where the wild ponies are!"
Varying trail difficulty levels: The region offers hiking appropriate for different age groups. One Grindstone visitor noted: "There is a .6 mile trail nearby (Whispering Waters Trail) which is good for beginners & small kids. There is another trail, Mt. Rogers which is longer (7 miles) from the campsite. That one should be good for more seasoned hikers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds that accommodate larger vehicles. A visitor to Camp Burson advises: "The Burston Campground has the largest sites and offers some full hook-up sites and water and electric sites (50 amp) with pull thrus and back-ins. Sites are level and can fit big rigs but the only problem we had were that some of the trees need to be trimmed back and scratched the upper sides of our coach."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. One camper warns: "The campgrounds are divided into three sections– Creekside, Burston and Royal Oak. All campsites in the Creekside section are reservable while only some in other sections are reservable. The Burston Campground has the largest sites and offers some full hook-up sites and water and electric sites (50 amp) with pull thrus and back-ins."
Multi-day setup options: Several campgrounds work well as basecamps for regional exploration. A camper at Beartree Campground shares: "From the spring wildflowers to the summer blueberries to the fall colors, there is so much beauty at this campground. 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."
