Troutdale, Virginia sits at approximately 3,500 feet elevation in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering camping opportunities year-round with distinct seasonal changes. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 80°F, while winter brings freezing conditions with regular snowfall above 4,000 feet. The region's higher elevation campgrounds maintain cooler temperatures even during July and August when lower elevation sites experience significant humidity.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Grindstone Recreation Area, you can access a shorter 0.6-mile Whispering Waters Trail suitable for beginners and young children. "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," explains one visitor.
Trout fishing: Near Hurricane Campground, visitors can fish directly in the adjacent streams. "Great spot, very well kept and plenty of space. Loved having the sound of the river right next to our site," reports one camper. The campground is situated alongside streams with trout fishing access.
Mountain biking: The region offers varied terrain for cyclists. "Great little campground with a nice biking/hiking trail along the lake. Kids had a great time!" notes a visitor to Hungry Mother State Park. Several campgrounds connect to multi-use trails accessible directly from campsites.
Wildlife viewing: Beyond the wild ponies mentioned in the existing description, the region offers diverse wildlife viewing. "We saw several deer, some turkey but no bears. Still be aware of your surroundings when moving around and in the campground," advises one camper at Hickory Ridge.
What campers like
Platform camping: At Royal Oak Campground, the elevated tent platforms provide a unique experience. "All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole," explains a camper. These wooden structures keep tents dry during rainfall.
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds. "Site 13 is easily the most private—and arguably the only truly private—tent site in this campground, with the driveway going behind a cluster of trees that shields the site from the road," notes a reviewer at Hickory Ridge Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained amenities. "The bathhouse was immaculate. Easy trail access," reports a visitor to Camp Burson. Most state park campgrounds in the area feature regular cleaning schedules and updated facilities.
Off-grid experience: The limited connectivity appeals to many visitors. "There is no cell phone service. The campsite is wooded and the spaces are distanced well," writes a camper at Grindstone. Many campgrounds in the area offer a true disconnect from technology.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options near Troutdale require advance booking. "I was there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," advises a camper at Hickory Ridge.
Weather variability: The mountain location means unpredictable conditions. "Grayson Highlands is a must-do for all campers, hikers, and adventurers. Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds. Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," recommends a visitor.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access routes. "This campground has a long and steep paved road going to it from up the mountain. We really enjoyed going up and down each time, it's nothing to be scared of!" shares a visitor to Hurricane Campground.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have seasonal or limited amenities. "Note that some of the reservations are nonspecific, i.e. when you arrive, you'll be assigned, although I saw one couple who looked like they were driving around and choosing their spot (and seemed overwhelmed by the process)," explains a Hickory Ridge visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Tent platforms: The wooden platforms at certain sites offer advantages for family camping. "We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campground was fantastic. All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff," explains a visitor at Creekside Campground.
Activity planning: During peak seasons, organized activities enhance family visits. "The kids around rode bikes forever! Great hiking also," notes a camper at Creekside. Many of the state parks offer scheduled activities during summer months.
Site selection strategies: For families, certain sites offer better play areas. "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites," advises a visitor to Hickory Ridge.
Kid-friendly trails: Select hikes appropriate for children. "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 Hickory Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should check specific site sizes. "Our site (#43) was on the end of a row with our patio facing a hillside next to a stream that made for a very pleasant rushing water sound," shares a visitor to Camp Burson.
Campground access: The road systems vary significantly between campgrounds. "Easily accessible with a large RV. Has multiple pull-through sites, bath house and laundry close by," reports a Camp Burson visitor. Some campgrounds restrict larger rigs.
Tree clearance: Overhead branches can cause issues. "The 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," warns a Camp Burson visitor.
Hookup locations: The placement of utilities varies by site. "The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole. The bathhouse was very clean and taken care of," notes a visitor to Creekside Campground.
