Dispersed camping opportunities near Willis, Virginia provide access to the Jefferson National Forest and Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. Seasonal temperature variations affect camping conditions, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter overnight lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October, creating increased demand for campsites throughout the region.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Hidden Valley WMA offers excellent water recreation with multiple access points. One visitor notes, "Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation. Has the portable restroom and plenty of firewood."
Hiking trail connections: Little Oak Campground connects to several shoreline trails around South Holston Lake. A visitor describes, "There are some short hiking trails, but plan to spend most of your time on the water. Close to 81 and lots of other campgrounds nearby if this one fills up."
Scenic driving routes: The region offers exceptional mountain drives including the "Back of the Dragon," a winding route from Marion to Tazewell. From Royal Oak Campground — Hungry Mother State Park, visitors can access this route. A camper mentions, "Two things to do while your here is ONE: check out DIP DOGS a very popular and busy restaurant and TWO: the 'Back of the Dragon' an AWESOME DRIVING TOUR across the mountains from Marion to Tazewell, VA."
What campers like
Lake view campsites: Observation Knob Park provides waterfront camping with boat access. A reviewer shared, "Large County campground with electric and water with two pump out stations. spacious, hilly sites with some tree coverage along lake with boat ramp and capacity to tie your boat up at your site."
Year-round camping options: Sugar Hollow Campground offers affordable camping throughout the winter months when many other facilities close. A visitor reports, "You can't beat the price and your secluded but yet close to Sam's and Walmart and even a Chick-fil-A 10-day maximum."
Elevated camping platforms: Royal Oak Campground features wooden platform tent sites that keep campers dry during wet weather. A reviewer explains, "We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campground was fantastic. All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty or nonexistent mobile coverage. Hidden Valley WMA campers should plan accordingly, as one visitor noted, "Our spot is very nice, close to the water's edge. There's quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo."
Permit requirements: Hidden Valley WMA requires specific permits for overnight stays. A camper explains, "Camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account)."
Challenging road access: Some campgrounds require navigating steep mountain roads. One camper at Hidden Valley WMA shared, "The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites… pretty and quiet. Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Riverside Campground offers shallow water access ideal for children. A visitor explains, "The river is perfect! It's not too deep so the kids can play in it. Fairly easily accessed from many areas at the campground."
Seasonal activities: Family events occur throughout the camping season at many locations. A Riverside Campground visitor shares, "If you go on any holiday, there are usually holiday related activities for the whole family. October was great for costumes, trick or treating, fall activities and parties!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Young campers often enjoy spotting local wildlife. At Sugar Hollow Campground, one visitor observed, "From the road you wouldn't guess there's a giant park beyond the entrance... A very large blue heron was in the water at let us take many photos. Later he strutted downstream right by our picnic spot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park offers various site configurations. One RVer advises, "This time I was in site 60 with water and electric, a pull-through site parallel to the road, with a slight incline on the way in and out. It was partially wooded."
Power protection: Observation Knob Park requires additional equipment for RV electrical safety. A camper recommends, "Recommend a surge protector on your camper as there are no breakers on the electric hook up at the site (clustered elsewhere)."
Limited level sites: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Sugar Hollow Campground, an RVer notes, "Not too much space for RV's. Ground not always levelled. But beautifully sited in the woods. Great for high temperatures. And realy inexpensive (we payed $ 20 per night)."
