Camping options near Roanoke, Virginia range from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV parks throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains region. Most Roanoke-area campgrounds sit at elevations between 1,200 and 3,500 feet, creating temperature drops of 5-10 degrees compared to the city. Many sites require reservations several months in advance for summer weekends, though spring and fall typically offer more availability.
What to do
Hike to Dragon's Tooth: This popular destination off the Appalachian Trail requires moderate hiking skills and proper preparation. "This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area. 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," notes a camper at Dragon's Tooth.
Creek exploration with kids: The shallow creek at Wilderness Adventure offers natural water play opportunities. "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 at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.
Bouldering near McAfee Knob: For rock climbing enthusiasts, the McAfee Knob area offers additional recreation beyond hiking. "Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones," explains a hiker who stayed at Johns Spring Shelter.
What campers like
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer structured activities beyond daytime recreation. "It was Saturday night with a bluegrass band, friendly families with kids, good food and drinks; totally our jam. This place is beautiful and worth visiting," reports a visitor about their experience at Wilderness Adventure.
Cave exploration opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to underground adventures. "The caverns are worth visiting pretty cool cave system. We got in late in the afternoon after the last tour woke up early and caught the first tour before heading on our way," notes a camper at Dixie Caverns.
Stargazing conditions: The higher elevation and distance from urban light pollution creates ideal astronomy opportunities. A visitor to Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground simply stated, "boy are there some amazing stars out here," highlighting the quality of night sky viewing.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Peaks of Otter Campground is only open "May 6 to October 29," according to their official information, making advance planning essential for peak season visits.
Highway noise concerns: Sites near major roads experience significant traffic sounds. "You are surrounded on three sides by roadway...and the actual Dixie Cavern is at the base of a mountain, so all the road traffic is above the campground and the noise reverberates off the mountain and surrounding walls 24/7," cautions a Dixie Caverns visitor.
Water source limitations: Not all mountain campgrounds have reliable water access. As one hiker at Johns Spring Shelter noted, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North," highlighting the importance of carrying adequate water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative lodging options: When weather threatens, investigate indoor alternatives. "We booked a spot 'in the meadow' but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more. Great old building + comfy beds + no wet tent to pack up = sold!" explains a family that stayed at Wilderness Adventure.
Year-round options: For camping outside peak seasons, look for campgrounds with extended operations. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes a visitor about Explore Park, making it valuable for off-season trips.
Space considerations: Some sites offer more room for multiple tents and group activities. "Awesome large spaces. Camped with 8 people/2 tents and had room for more if needed. Secluded enough but a lot to do," shares a camper at Wilderness Adventure, important for families needing larger camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at mountain campgrounds. "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," mentions a visitor to Peaks Of Otter Campground.
Limited full-hookup options: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups at best. "FHU. Sites not level. Very narrow sites. Some full time residents' rigs give the Breaking Bad class C a run for their money, if they run. Only campground close to Roanoke Va," reports a candid RVer about Dixie Caverns.
Pull-through availability: Some sites feature unique configurations for easier RV parking. "We stayed in site #7, in the trailer loop. 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," explains a Peaks of Otter camper about the terraced layout.
