138 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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.
"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."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $25 - $100 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $40 / 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."
from $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Did I say it’s close to I 81?"
"just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"
"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."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 - $85 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $35 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
ScoutWell maintained and very quiet. Plenty of room when I was there with 2 dogs. Fairly good privacy between sites. I chose a spot in the woods at the edge of a large field. Plenty of air moving through. No cell service.
TravelerI stayed at Dixie Caverns Campground for two weekend nights and found it to be a good value for the money. This is a very basic campground, so if you're looking for resort-style amenities like a pool, playground, or organized activities, this probably isn't the place for you. However, if you understand what a typical rural campground is like, you'll likely find it meets expectations. One of the biggest advantages is the location. The campground is in the Dixie Caverns parking lot, making it incredibly convenient to visit the caves, and campers receive a discount on cave tours. There is also a brand-new gas station and Which Wich sandwich shop within sight of the campground, which made grabbing fuel, snacks, or a quick meal very easy. The staff deserves special recognition. Everyone I encountered was exceptionally friendly, helpful, and welcoming, honestly some of the nicest campground staff I've met anywhere. The sites are fairly small and close together, but all the hookups worked properly during my stay, including water, sewer, and electric. I had read reviews complaining about unlevel sites and roads, but I didn't experience any issues with leveling my rig. The bathhouse was about what I'd expect from a rural campground. It was functional, but it could use a fresh coat of paint and a more thorough cleaning. It wasn't anything unusual for an older campground, but it is an area that could use some attention. One thing to be aware of is the road noise. The campground sits close to a roadway, so you'll hear traffic throughout much of the day and night. There are also some older RVs in the campground that add a bit of character and are interesting to look at. Overall, Dixie Caverns Campground is not fancy, but it was affordable, convenient, and served its purpose well. If you're a very particular camper who wants premium amenities and a pristine campground experience, you may want to look elsewhere. But if you're looking for a reasonably priced place to stay with great staff and reliable hookups, I'd say it's exactly what you'd expect for the money and maybe a little better thanks to the outstanding people who run it.
ScoutIf you’re expecting service just don’t. I didn’t get service till i left and drove for about an hour till i finally got one bar. If that isn’t an issue for you this place is pretty great. Solitude yourself deep in the forest and if you’re lucky you can get a site near the creak. Unfortunately my site was absolutely littered with trash when i arrived. I’m talking beer bottles and trash all over the place, DIAPERS IN THE FIRE PIT… I mean get a grip people. Other than that it was amazing.
ScoutThis is a nice little place with level sites and easy shower/restroom access. I thought it was a little pricey and we had to drive to the lake, but it's a nice place to paddle board or kayak because they don't allow motor boats. They have a nice beach that our kid liked. You also have to the fairy stone hunting ground - we didn't find any. But there's a cool hiking trail with a couple of abandoned mine entrances.
ScoutI camp at beaver creek campground yearly and have for the past 5 years. This past year they have built new family bathroom facilities, and a new playground. The nature, beauty and stars at night are unmatched.
ScoutGood facilities. Clean and hot showers. Good beach area. Docks for fishing could use some markers on the trails to find them. Could use a playground given it's labells as a familycamp
TravelerWell maintained blacktop road which made it easy to get a camper or a van through. Some of the sites further up the road are away from the creek but less buggy. They were large and well-maintained. I like the privacy of the sites further up. I would highly recommend this off upgrade site.
LegendVery beautiful surrounds and plenty of family fun to be had here. Pool, waterslides, splash pad, jumping pillows, playgrounds, mini golf, and of course the James River, to which our campsite was immediately adjacent. It's 8 minutes to the state park with the natural bridge, which is spectacular. . The staff are super nice and helpful.
ScoutFrom all the reviews on this site, we thought it would be more dispersed/private than it is. If you’re ok with seeing and hearing strangers as you sit in front of your own campfire, then this is the spot for you. Not for those who want privacy and true connection with nature and surroundings.
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.
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."
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."
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."
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."
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.
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