Troutville sits at the northern end of the Roanoke Valley with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. This Blue Ridge Mountain region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s and winter lows dipping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area operate from spring through fall, with limited winter camping options available at select locations.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Chantilly Farm offers a newly installed 9-hole disc golf course for campers seeking recreational activities. "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!" notes Joan, who appreciated the variety of on-site activities at Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue.
Hiking at Peaks of Otter: Access numerous trails with varying difficulty levels within a short drive from Troutville. "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 Hannah V. about the trails at Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway.
Swimming options: Local swimming holes provide relief during summer months. "The pool was great for my son and we had it to ourselves multiple days," mentions Joel B. from his stay at Sweetwater RV Park. Many campgrounds near Troutville offer pools, while natural swimming areas can be found along nearby waterways.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Modern bathroom facilities rank high on camper satisfaction lists. "Best bathhouse I've encountered with something like 7 unisex bathrooms each with their own shower," reports Michael L. about his experience at Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, adding it was the "favorite campground I've ever visited."
Spacious tent sites: Several campgrounds feature well-designed tent areas with protective features. "The tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms. It stormed our first night, and the raised gravel tent platforms prevented us from flooding," notes Shannon L. about her stay at Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "Very territorial deer, will stalk you on way to dumpster!" warns Karen W. about her experience at Peaks Of Otter Campground, highlighting the sometimes too-close wildlife encounters campers might experience.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "Cell service is spotty but WiFi is available and adequate enough to stream movies," explains Christopher C. about his stay at Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, noting the campground's provided internet helps offset carrier limitations.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway," shares Bridget H. about Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, making it one of the few year-round rv campgrounds Troutville visitors can access during winter months.
Water pressure concerns: Utility quality can vary depending on site location within campgrounds. "My water pressure was good but talking to other campers, the farther away you get from the front of the park the worse the water pressure gets," warns Christopher C. about his experience at Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, suggesting requesting sites closer to main water lines.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds offer varying levels of children's amenities. "They had activities every day for the kids. As well as lots of unstructured activities. For example, they had a foosball table and a jumping pad," shares Michael L. about Glen Maury Park, where family-focused programming makes it suitable for longer stays with children.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for younger campers. "There is a playground that is very nice! They offer entertainment on weekends and some other times of the year," notes Sara L. about Glen Maury Park, which provides recreational options beyond hiking and swimming.
Educational opportunities: Some camping areas include historical or educational components. "Explore Park is run by Roanoke County, who partners with different vendors to create a full outdoor experience for folks who want to the gamut of outdoor adventures without having to drive all over the place," explains Tara S. about her experience at Don's Cab-Inns Campground, located in Explore Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Terrain throughout the region creates challenges for RV leveling. "Sites level somewhat," shares David L. from Sweetwater RV Park, suggesting bringing adequate leveling equipment for most sites in the area's rv campgrounds near Troutville.
Pull-through availability: Many campgrounds offer pull-through sites, but availability may be limited. "Plenty of pull through and back in sites. Level sites, utilities are well placed and good height," notes Beth B. about Sweetwater RV Park, highlighting the thoughtful design of the campground's layout.
Road condition awareness: Campground access roads vary significantly in quality. "The roads are rough dirt and gravel and not conducive to bike riding," cautions Martha S. about Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, suggesting campers consider road surfaces when planning activities and arrival timing.
