1 campground with availability this weekend
The Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Roanoke, Virginia offer several tent camping options, from primitive backcountry sites to drive-in campgrounds with basic amenities. Dragon's Tooth campground, located near the Appalachian Trail, provides primitive tent camping with vault toilets and bear-proof trash receptacles but no drinking water. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT offers both lean-to and tent sites for hikers seeking backcountry tent camping experiences. Breeden Bottom Campground, situated on the James River about 25 miles north of Roanoke, features numbered sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and level tent pads for drive-in or paddle-in campers.
Most tent campgrounds in the region have minimal amenities, requiring campers to bring their own water and supplies. Dragon's Tooth sites include rock fire pits near the trailhead, while the actual camping area may be limited due to environmental protection measures. Dispersed camping sites off Forest Road 812 provide a more remote option with several flat areas for tents and access to hiking trails and streams. Waltons Campground offers a small, clean facility with a porta-potty, water spigot, and firewood available for purchase. Surface conditions vary from gravel parking areas to forest duff, with most sites featuring minimal grading and natural terrain.
Tent campers at Breeden Bottom report extremely private and spacious sites. According to one visitor, "Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone." The campground provides direct river access with "a good, shallow walk-in into the water." At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, campers note the large open space can accommodate multiple tents with a central fire circle. One reviewer described it as "a wonderful group site tucked back a couple miles from 501" with "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups." Cell service is limited or non-existent at most primitive tent sites, offering a true disconnect from urban life while providing access to the region's extensive trail networks.
"The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well. It is a gravel lot, pretty level. There is a little road noise until about 1030 PM."
"dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail, there is a good amount of parking with a bathroom and garbage, once you begin the trail there are a few dispersed obvious camping spots"
"You get a lean-to and tent sites. 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."
"No water, no electricity available. Not for RVs. There is a railroad track that runs along the James River near the sites, but it never bothered us. Great fishing."
"This site was in a great location and right on the crystal clear water. The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there."
from $40 - $70 / night
"Just less than a mile west of the Blue Ridge Parkway on US 58 Business, Willville is THE motorcycle camping slot for me in Virginia. thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights."
"It is motorcycle only, but he has limited space outside the campground proper for trailers should that be your thing."
from $150 - $200 / night
"Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream."
"It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
"There is no potable water."
"Cozy little site not too far from the main highway! Checked this out on my way to Tennessee. Primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!"
from $5 / night
from $40 - $60 / night
"It’s quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
"I didn’t camp here, but I took out my kayak at the boat ramp and looked around. Vault M/F toilet, BYOTP. No hookups and I didn’t see a water spigot. Plenty of shade. Closed during flood."
"Beautiful spot on the New River in Giles County, VA located right outside downtown Narrows. There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect."
TravelerShowers themselves are nice but don't have privacy room to dry and get dressed. Spots are fairly close together. $50 for one night seemed kinda high. There is highway noise. You do get a discount on your cave tour.
ScoutNice campground for dry camping. Campground is fairly new and is still improving. The network of hiking trails are very nice and connect with nearby Ferrum College. The nonprofit that owns the campground has plans to add electric and water in the future.
ScoutGreat campground post season- open until 10/31. Good weather, leaf peeping. LOTS of trails to the lake, and very dog friendly
GuideThe campground is nice but needs a little upkeep. It is apparent from the algae and moss on the buildings that it's a very damp area. The restroom facilities were working but needed touched up All in all it was ok for a nights stay and the lake and sharp top mountain were incredible despite the little issues I wouldn't hesitate to come back.
GuideWe had a blast here. My kiddo was able to roam freely and safely with other kids. We enjoyed a hike with the dogs, as well as swimming at the beaches.
ScoutThe campground is very well kept. Super friendly staff and in a good location.
GuideI 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.
GuideIt’s not too often you get amazing hospitality anywhere these days, BUT THIS PLACE HAS IT! From the phone call to the arrival, the Indian Heritage RV Park is impressive. The park has level gravel sites, both pull-thru’s and back-ins, and they vary from fully- to partially-shaded to full sun. Solid-connecting WiFi is available with speeds to easily watch a movie. There’s even a trash can at each site. But wait, there’s more. If you’ve been on the road way too long and crave personal bathroom space, check out their bathhouse—individual rooms make it feel like you’re at a resort…plenty of space and super clean and inviting! The laundry room offers two washers, dryers, folding tables, and a hanging rack (bring your own hangers); again, super clean. This park is located on the Smith River and I highly recommend getting a lakeside spot if one’s available…spectacular view if you have a back porch on your rig! Jody was our host and makes you feel like you’re part of the family. The owner (sorry I forgot his name) is also very friendly. Restaurants are a few blocks down the street but you wouldn’t know it unless you took a short walk…that’s how tucked away this place is. Definitely staying here again the next time I travel Hwy 58!
Tent campsites near Roanoke, Virginia typically feature primitive amenities and varying road conditions. Most sites are situated between 1,200 and 3,500 feet elevation along the western edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The region's camping season runs primarily from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime and 55-65°F at night.
Motorcycle touring: Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway from Willville Motorcycle Camp, just minutes from the scenic byway. "There are no designated spots... there are great places with shade or in the open, ample grass, and picnic tables aplenty," notes Joe S., highlighting the flexibility for riders.
Kayaking and floating: The James River offers multiple access points for water recreation. "The crystal clear water" at Breeden Bottom Campground provides options for various water activities. According to Lauren B., "The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm."
Disc golf: Camp Success offers recreational options beyond just camping. "There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," writes Wendy G. about this small-town camping area.
Private riverside camping: Campers consistently mention the secluded nature of sites. Kate V. describes Shirleys' River Retreat as "a hidden gem" with sites that are "spaced far enough from each other that you can see each other." Mark M. adds that it has an "amazing campsite right on the riverbank" with a "wonderful host."
Group camping areas: The Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 accommodates larger groups with its open layout. David B. notes it has a "large open space with several flat areas for tents" and mentions "there are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road."
Clean facilities: Tent sites with basic amenities receive praise for maintenance. At Dragon's Tooth, Angela D. appreciates the "vault toilets stocked with toilet paper at the trailhead as well as bear proof trashcans." She describes it as "a fine place to park overnight" with a "pretty little creek runs by the gravel lot."
Environmental restrictions: Some campsites have adjusted their available areas. At Dragon's Tooth, Juliett M. reports that "car camping is the only option at this time. It appears that the tent camping area is no longer available and is fenced off for environmental protection reasons."
Cell service limitations: Many primitive sites have no connectivity. Jon N. notes about the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Water access: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT, Alex R. advises visitors are "near water (collect water with a filter only)."
Flat terrain options: For easier setup with children, look for level sites. Describing Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground), Nicholas H. notes "sites are huge and level. It's quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
River access safety: When camping with children near water, select sites with gradual entry points. Alison M. mentions Breeden Bottom has "a good, shallow walk-in into the water" making it safer for families and pets.
Rain preparation: Mountain weather can change quickly, so prepare for precipitation even in summer. While most tent sites have natural drainage, low areas can become muddy during storms.
Road conditions: Many forest roads leading to primitive tent sites have rough surfaces. Jon N. cautions about the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Transportation alternatives: RVers often use primitive tent sites as base camps. At Whitt Riverbend Park, John R. notes it's a "cozy little site not too far from the main highway" making it convenient for those traveling between destinations.
Amenities inventory: Bring all essentials as most tent campsites near Roanoke lack facilities. Sue B. observes at Camp Success: "Vault M/F toilet, BYOTP. No hookups and I didn't see a water spigot. Plenty of shade."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Roanoke, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Roanoke, VA is Dragon's Tooth with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Roanoke, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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