Best Campgrounds near Troutville, VA

Campgrounds around Troutville, Virginia span the Blue Ridge Mountains and George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, offering varied camping experiences from developed sites to rustic backcountry options. Peaks of Otter Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway provides tent, RV, and cabin camping with scenic mountain views. Middle Creek Campground near Buchanan accommodates tent and RV campers with water and electric hookups, while North Creek Campground offers more primitive sites for those seeking a quieter experience. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp features family-friendly camping with creek-side sites and hiking trails.

Road conditions in the region vary significantly by season, with many campgrounds operating primarily from April through October or early November. "The campground is pretty big and a bit of a maze getting around, we needed to use the park map a lot," noted one visitor about navigating the area. The Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds typically close during winter months, while some private campgrounds remain open year-round. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly at more remote forest service campgrounds. Many campsites require advance reservations, especially during peak fall foliage season when the area attracts significant tourism. Elevation changes affect temperatures, with cooler nights even during summer months.

Campers consistently mention the natural beauty and water features as highlights of the region. The Greenbrier River provides opportunities for swimming and fishing at several campgrounds, while forest settings offer cooler temperatures and shade during summer months. A review described North Creek Campground as "a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature." Privacy between sites varies considerably between campgrounds, with forest service properties typically offering more secluded options compared to private campgrounds. Highway noise affects some locations, particularly those near Interstate 81, while others deeper in the national forest provide quieter settings. Campgrounds near Natural Bridge and Lexington offer convenient access to regional attractions while maintaining a natural setting.

Best Camping Sites Near Troutville, Virginia (109)

    1. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    23 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price

    Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill."

    2. Don's Cab-Inns Campground

    7 Reviews
    Hardy, VA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 427-1800

    $25 - $100 / night

    "First, it is a private campground located in a public park - in this case, Explore Park in Roanoke, Virginia (milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway)."

    "The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling. Also, an outlet to charge your phone."

    3. Tina's Dream

    2 Reviews
    Troutville, VA
    1 mile
    +1 (540) 855-4383

    $40 / night

    4. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing

    5 Reviews
    Oriskany, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 864-6792

    $25 - $75 / night

    "We were not sure about taking such a detour from our path to Asheville, but are so glad we did! We booked a spot “in the meadow” but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more."

    "If you’re up for a fun hike, take the Outerspace trail up to “The Bluff” and enjoy the mountain views."

    5. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $20 - $40 / night

    "These sites are slightly more rugged, and best for smaller tents; site 35 however is both large, flat, and private, and is next to the trailhead to one of the campground's hiking trails."

    "Site was spacious and pleasantly situated for our 17' travel trailer. Clean bathrooms and shower."

    6. Dixie Caverns

    16 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 380-2085

    "just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"

    "We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers. This campground seems to have a lot of permanent residents."

    7. Middle Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buchanan, VA
    17 miles
    Website

    $20 - $85 / night

    "It was early season, mid- may, so there were few other campers around. We took a site up their gravel road away from the main campground area."

    "They mostly lazed around all weekend and watched people coming and going. The RV sites are directly across from the camp store, but the tent sites were tucked back into the woods."

    8. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    31 Reviews
    Natural Bridge, VA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2770

    $35 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway.  There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. "

    "Located in a beautiful part of central Virginia, this campground gives you lots of options for sightseeing. It is definitely worth a trip to the Natural Bridge."

    9. North Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buchanan, VA
    18 miles
    Website

    $30 / night

    "Our camping trip in Virginia was a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature."

    "The gravel road going around the tent loop was really loud, and there was a cabin behind our site that had a lot of activity and noise for awhile, but all was quiet after 10p."

    10. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT

    1 Review
    Hollins, VA
    10 miles
    Website

    "Near water (collect water with a filter only)

    I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go.

    Lots of space for many people.

    Not too far from McAfee knob."

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Recent Reviews near Troutville, VA

546 Reviews of 109 Troutville Campgrounds


  • Stephanie L.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Sweetwater RV Park

    Quiet, clean campground!

    This campground was exceptionally clean and very quiet/peaceful. We went to the playground to play and pool to swim - had it to ourselves - with our 18 month old. The staff is amazing and clearly love what they do. They were friendly from the start and they let us know they were available for help, etc. The site itself was an easy pull-through. It was clean and hookups were easy to figure out (first time RVers here; not new to camping though). I would say this campground has achieved the 'family-friendly' atmosphere, for sure! SML State Park is 10mns away! We will definitely be back!

    I thought being at the end of the loop would be noisy due to traffic coming through, but it didn't bother us one but!

  • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater RV Park

    Great location at SML

    Really well thought out campground for RV. Plenty of pull through and back in sites. Level sites, utilities are well placed and good height. Well maintained…you can tell staff takes pride in campground. Multiple dog parks….so convenient so you have one close to your area. Lots of recreation, great pickle ball area and pool. Laundry is honor system per load …pay in office.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge

    Helpful staff and nice amenities

    It has all the bells and whistles you’d hope for at a Jellystone. It sounds like staffing has been challenging but the fellow campers and wonderful staff that are here make it well worth staying. We partook in all we could and enjoyed the swimming hole, pool, splash pad, jumping pillow and arcade. I’d stay again and would love to head down to the river for some tubing and fish in the stocked pond.

  • Kevin M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    Exceeded expectations

    I was impressed with this campground from the minute I entered it. We were greeted at the entrance and then sent to an escort you smartly showed us to our site by taking the same path at the RV should take; making wise returns and so on. The site was pristine and laid out very nicely. Honestly the whole place was really clean and lovely. This is my first KOA visit and I was thoroughly impressed

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Rocky Knob Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Quiet, nice, but no showers, very basic

    Minimalist facilities. Good location. Has rv and tent sites. Right off blue Ridge Parkway.

    Overall ok if you need a crash pad, but I would not seek it out

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Beautiful place, old campground

    On a Thursday night in July we were the only ones at the campground. Friendly host but the campsites are not level - and we had the best of the lot - very private (if others had been there) but only one side of the picnic table was accessible (bc of the slope). Worked for our setup with rooftop tent but would’ve been difficult for someone w a camper or tent. Lodge was nice and well-kept. Hike to top of peaks was strenuous and gorgeous at the top! Decent stop right off the BRP. Wildflowers were beautiful.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    Convenient and easy

    Lots of pull thru sites, full hook up, even have dog park and laundry.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater RV Park

    Nice place

    A quiet and clean campground. The pool was great for my son and we had it to ourselves multiple days.

  • nThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Road noise

    The Blue Ridge Parkway is currently closed just south of the Peaks of Otter area. Traffic is being detoured just behind the campground. This was the 4th of July weekend so may be u usual, but the traffic was all day and night. There was a lot of commotion at 4 am—hikers in the parking lot to make the summit for dawn. Many sites were tiered—I had steps or the worn path down to the actual site from where I parked. The sites were spacious and well kept. Gravel tent site —common in the area but I’m not a fan. There were sites open on the holiday weekend….no wonder. Beautiful area. I’ll go back to the lodge (been there a few times) but I’ll camp somewhere else.


Guide to Troutville

Camping sites near Troutville, Virginia range in elevation from 1,000 to over 2,500 feet, creating significant temperature differences that campers should prepare for year-round. The Jefferson National Forest surrounds much of the area, with North Creek offering primitive sites for $15 per night where campers can enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water. Most forest service campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis during peak summer months.

What to do

Hike nearby trails: The Appalachian Trail passes close to several Troutville area campgrounds, with access points near Middle Creek Campground. "Lots of hiking trails, but make sure you look at the map because we unfortunately did not look at it well enough and thought that the trail was a loop when it led to the opposite side of the mountain and we had to hitch hike back to the campsite," warns one visitor about trail navigation.

Explore local waterways: Jennings Creek runs through several camping areas and provides fishing opportunities throughout the season. "Getting here was a lot easier than expected. The campground is only 6 miles off the I-81 Arcadia exit. We were quickly in the Jefferson National Forest where the road winds through the forest along Jennings Creek. It was absolutely gorgeous. Around every turn we saw fishermen wading into the water or sitting on the banks."

Visit Natural Bridge attractions: Located a short drive from most campgrounds, this natural landmark offers educational value and scenic views. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides convenient access. "There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. The campground itself has a pool, open seasonally, a game room, and a playground."

What campers like

Creek-side camping: Many visitors appreciate sleeping next to running water. At North Creek Campground, "Very nice quiet and peaceful campground, Loved falling asleep to the sound of the creek. Campground was very clean and well kept. Just what we were looking for."

Wooded privacy: Forest service campgrounds typically offer more separation between sites. "Sites were very clean and well taken care of. There are tons of campsites available but they are spaced out enough to still feel secluded. Great location in relation to several popular trails," notes a visitor to Peaks Of Otter Campground.

Affordable primitive camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value of basic sites with natural settings. "Our camping trip in Virginia was a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature. The campsite featured picnic tables, a fire pit, and even hooks to hang a cauldron for boiling water or cooking fish, adding to the rustic charm."

What you should know

Limited cell service: Most forest service campgrounds have minimal to no connectivity. Prepare offline maps and information before arrival, especially when visiting more remote camping locations in the national forest.

Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in the region operate with limited services outside summer. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," mentions a camper about Don's Cab-Inns Campground, making it a good option for off-season trips.

Bear safety precautions: Several campgrounds post bear warnings and provide appropriate storage options. "There was a bear warning on the picnic table, but the very kind hostess said she hadn't heard of a sighting in a year or more." Despite infrequent sightings, proper food storage remains important throughout the region.

Limited amenities at primitive sites: Most forest service campgrounds offer basic facilities. "Although there were no showers or sinks, the pit toilet served its purpose well. We spent our time enjoying a barbecue under the stars, fully embracing the natural world around us."

Tips for camping with families

Look for sites with play features: Water access ranks high for family entertainment. "The creek was the big hit for our family of small boys. Grab some lawn chairs and a cooler and let them play and explore for hours," shares a visitor to Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.

Consider cabin options: For families newer to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "We stayed in one of Don's Cab-Inns over fourth of July weekend. It was a great stay and glam camping at its finest. These cabins have plenty of room for a family or couple getaway. The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling."

Plan for temperature variations: Even summer nights can get cool at higher elevations. Pack appropriate clothing layers, especially for children who may be more sensitive to temperature changes.

Check event schedules: Some campgrounds host family-friendly activities during peak season. "It was Saturday night with a bluegrass band, friendly families with kids, good food and drinks; totally our jam."

Tips from RVers

Reserve pull-through sites when possible: Several campgrounds have limited turning radius on interior roads. "The campground is pretty big and the roads are rough dirt and gravel and not conducive to bike riding."

Check site dimensions carefully: Some RV sites are notably close together, especially at private campgrounds. "If we had camper with slide, we would not have been able to use our slide in this site," notes one RVer about their experience at a local campground.

Look for campgrounds with year-round hookups: Winter camping options exist but are limited. "All new facilities and only $25 a night. Electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hotels in Troutville, VA for campers passing through?

Troutville offers several convenient lodging options for campers in transit. Hotels along I-81 provide easy access for those passing through, with chains like Holiday Inn Express, Comfort Inn, and Super 8 offering reliable accommodations. Many feature amenities campers appreciate after days outdoors, including hot showers, laundry facilities, and complimentary breakfast. For a more unique experience, consider checking availability at Thunder Bridge, which offers furnished cabins alongside traditional camping, or the Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA with cabin rentals for those wanting a break from tent or RV camping. Both provide a nice middle ground between traditional hotels and camping.

What camping options are available near Troutville, VA?

The Troutville area offers diverse camping experiences across the Virginia-West Virginia border region. Just a short drive away is Dixie Caverns, a privately owned campground near Salem with convenient I-81 access. For a more natural setting, Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest offers well-maintained sites with personality and potable water. Other excellent options include Douthat State Park with level sites and hookup choices, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area with lakeside camping, and primitive sites along the Greenbrier River Trail for those seeking solitude. The region provides everything from full-service RV parks to backcountry camping experiences within a reasonable drive from Troutville.

What outdoor activities can you do while staying in Troutville, VA?

Troutville's strategic location offers access to numerous outdoor adventures. Water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing at Douthat State Park Campground, which features a scenic lake and excellent fishing opportunities. Hikers have multiple options, including sections of the Appalachian Trail which passes through Troutville. Mountain biking and horseback riding are popular at Moncove Lake State Park, while Lake Sherwood offers additional water recreation. The Blue Ridge Mountains provide spectacular scenery for photography and wildlife observation. For a unique experience, explore cavern systems nearby, tour Natural Bridge State Park's geological formations, or enjoy the area's scenic drives with stunning mountain vistas.