Camping spots near Woodlawn, Virginia range in elevation from 2,000 to 3,000 feet along the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating naturally cooler camping temperatures even in summer months. The area features a mix of privately-owned campgrounds and state parks with varying seasonal operations. Most campgrounds close during winter months, with only a few remaining open year-round for RV camping.
What to do
Explore historic sites near Foster Falls: Millrace Campground offers access to abandoned hotel grounds, a visitor center with local artisan goods, and an old train car. A camper noted, "Just a short walk from the campground, you can explore the area which includes stables, a wildlife center, visitor center with local artisan goods (we got some local teas, stevia, and handmade jewelry/ornaments as gifts)."
Bike the New River Trail: This 57-mile linear state park offers multiple access points for cyclists. "Of the 57 miles of this park, about 39 are on the New River. All campgrounds are primitive; no RV sites, no bathhouses (pit toilets only), but potable water is available," explains a visitor who explored the various camping options.
Fish in stocked waters: Lake Ridge RV Resort offers fishing opportunities in a well-maintained pond. "Great place to spend the evenings after work. Pond and surrounding area are very well maintained," confirms a recent visitor who enjoyed extended time at the resort.
Attend local music events: The Fries area hosts regular jam sessions as part of the "Crooked River Music Trail." According to a camper, "Thursday evenings, the community center hosts a jam session - check it out!" The small town of approximately 400 residents maintains this strong musical tradition.
What campers like
Private bathrooms at KOA sites: Wytheville KOA receives consistently positive feedback about their bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms were amazing. Pulled my review from a 3+ to a 5! Private baths like at home. Toilet, sink and shower all to yourself and CLEAN!" shares an impressed camper.
Tent sites with electrical access: Uncommon in many campgrounds, some tent sites in the region offer electrical hookups. A camper at one campground noted, "there's a lot of camper spaces... and about 6 or 7 tent sites. All have electric but not all have running water."
Hiking trails on campground property: Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground offers hiking options without leaving the grounds. "Located on the parkway and owned by great people. Hiking on property to get you started. Great spot to access nearby attractions," shares one visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Riverside camping with natural soundscape: Some campgrounds offer sites directly adjacent to moving water. "Really cool campground located right on the New River, located at Foster Falls. The river sounds amazing at night," describes a camper who enjoyed the natural ambiance.
What you should know
Campground size variations: While some Woodlawn area campgrounds are expansive resorts, others are intentionally small. Fries New RiverTrail RV Park has fewer than 20 sites. A camper advised, "Don't let the size keep you from making a reservation. Located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway the views are amazing."
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds require payment in cash. A visitor noted, "One thing to note is that they don't accept credit cards," when describing their otherwise positive experience at a local RV park.
Reservation requirements vary: While some campgrounds accept walk-ins, others require advance booking. For New River Trail State Park, a visitor advises, "Millrace Campground is right on the river and near Foster Falls; you can rent canoes and bikes here. Reservations required."
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation creates variable conditions. A camper at Fort Chiswell RV Park observed, "We had only planned to stay the night but decided to stay a couple of days to let weather pass us by."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities for children: Several campgrounds feature pools with additional features beyond basic swimming. "What a nice clean campground! They have a pool with a waterslide," notes a visitor to Wytheville KOA who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Arcade options for rainy days: Stone Mountain State Park Campground and other nearby facilities offer indoor recreation. "We spent one evening playing in the arcade room where I may currently hold the high score on one of the pinball machines," shares a proud visitor who found entertainment during downtime.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Family groups often enjoy observing local animals. A camper at Fort Chiswell noted, "You are surrounded by farm land on two sides and it was relaxing watching the cows and sheep graze on the hillsides."
Cabin alternatives for non-tent campers: Many families opt for cabin accommodations with basic amenities. "We stayed in one of the cabins, it was clean with fresh linens, a fridge, and microwave. Comfortable relaxing porch chairs to watch the sunset over the mountains," reports a satisfied visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties for larger rigs. A visitor to Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA shared, "My only negative was that they had us camp up on the top of the hill and it was difficult to navigate back down, with some very sharp turns for our fifth wheel."
Pull-through site availability: Many campgrounds offer pull-through options for easier access. "We did choose one of the 4 pull through sites which provide a great view but they are along the ring road so they are not really private. The back in sites appear to be roomy and rather private," notes a visitor comparing site options.
Seasonal operation limitations: Most RV parks in the region close during winter. A visitor to Utts Mountaintop Campground commented, "We stayed here from May to November. The monthly rates are super reasonable," highlighting both the seasonal limitations and extended-stay value.
Water pressure variations: RVers should be prepared for inconsistent water supply. "Even though we were in the back, the wifi worked great the entire time. Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes," advises a camper who found workable solutions to the issue.
