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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Roanoke, VA

519 Reviews

Explore Park accommodates pets at all camping sites, including cabins, RV spots, and tent sites with easy trail access. The park maintains clean trails where dogs can accompany their owners while exploring the surrounding natural areas. User reviews confirm the pet-friendly environment extends throughout the property, with quiet camping spots that aren't situated in open fields. The park offers drinking water, electric hookups, and fire rings at most sites, making extended stays comfortable for campers with pets.

Dragon's Tooth camping area allows dogs on leash along its connecting Appalachian Trail sections with multiple primitive camping spots available for tent campers. The trail provides several obvious camping spots near the trailhead that are easily accessible with pets, while the more strenuous hiking sections toward Dragon's Tooth itself may challenge hikers with larger dogs. A vault toilet and bear-proof trash receptacles are available at the trailhead parking area, though no running water exists for pet hydration. Campers should pack enough water for themselves and their dogs, especially when hiking the moderate to strenuous trail sections. The primitive nature of this camping experience appeals to experienced hikers with trail-savvy dogs looking for dispersed camping opportunities in a spectacular setting.

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Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Roanoke, Virginia (82)

    1. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    23 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "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."

    2. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Penhook, VA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 297-6066

    $20 - $40 / night

    "We enjoyed staying at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. The views of the lake are stunning! There was fishing, boating and swimming as well!"

    "This is our favorite campground in the Roanoke area. The campsites are roomy, although some are definitely more private than others."

    3. Explore Park

    1 Review
    Hardy, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 427-1800

    $25 - $150 / night

    4. Dragon's Tooth

    3 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 552-4641

    "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"

    "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."

    5. Tina's Dream

    2 Reviews
    Troutville, VA
    11 miles
    +1 (540) 855-4383

    $40 / night

    6. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT

    1 Review
    Hollins, VA
    10 miles
    Website

    "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.

    Not too far from McAfee knob."

    7. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    10 miles
    Website

    "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat."

    8. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing

    5 Reviews
    Oriskany, VA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 864-6792

    $25 - $75 / night

    "We were not sure about taking such a detour from our path to Asheville, but are so glad we did! We booked a spot “in the meadow” but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more."

    "If you’re up for a fun hike, take the Outerspace trail up to “The Bluff” and enjoy the mountain views."

    9. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $20 - $40 / night

    "There is no phone signal so expect it, but you are camping so this should be a positive! The lake itself is spring fed and you can swim or fish in it. The camp hosts were friendly and helpful."

    "These sites are slightly more rugged, and best for smaller tents; site 35 however is both large, flat, and private, and is next to the trailhead to one of the campground's hiking trails."

    10. Sweetwater RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Moneta, VA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 296-0522

    $47 / night

    "Multiple dog parks….so convenient so you have one close to your area. Lots of recreation, great pickle ball area and pool. Laundry is honor system per load …pay in office."

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Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Roanoke, VA

65 Photos of 82 Roanoke Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Roanoke, VA

519 Reviews of 82 Roanoke Campgrounds

  • Brett T.
    Mar. 22, 2017

    Roanoke Mountain — Blue Ridge Parkway

    No longer open for camping

    This used to be an awesome quick getaway for camping near Roanoke, but it's been shut down, as a campground, due to budget cuts. It's still open for day use, but no overnight stays... :-(

  • Daniel P.
    Oct. 1, 2016

    Roanoke Mountain — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Great Overlooks of Star City

    You can get the best views of Roanoke from Roanoke mountain! You can take pictures and walk around the huge Star and see why they call Roanoke "Star City". Apart from the huge star, there are excellent walking/running trails. I managed to do a good 7mile run on the different trails right there near the parkway. I would highly recommend visiting Roanoke Mountain if you are in Roanoke or near the area!

  • Bran P.
    Jul. 15, 2016

    Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

    Very nice stay!

    We enjoyed staying at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. The views of the lake are stunning! There was fishing, boating and swimming as well! Gets crowded depending on the time of year but worth it for sure! It is just under an hour from Roanoke. A very fun park and happy that we visited!

  • Carey R.
    Aug. 4, 2022

    Natural Bridge KOA

    Perfect for Visiting Natural Bridge with Kids

    We stayed in a Pull Through, Full Hookup site on the hillside. It was surprisingly very level. We just used this as a base for visiting Natural Bridge State Park, so it was only an overnighter. The bathrooms & private showers were amazing & clean. The laundry room looked just as nice, but we didn’t use it.
    We didn’t use the pool, but the kids enjoyed the Gameroom! Of everything we used there, the only thing to mention that was dirty was the game room. But I’ll take that, we were very impressed with the playground, dog park & they even had chickens & a petting farm upon entry.
    This KOA seriously restored my faith in KOA’s. I will renew our membership, (which is about to expire), based on this visit. There are great ones out there!

  • Bridget H.
    Nov. 17, 2020

    Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    Right off highway with great amenities

    This campground is open year round and is right off the highway.  There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park.  The campground itself has a pool, open seasonally, a game room, and a playground.  It's an old school playground but the gkids love it.  They also have a couple of walking trails and a small dog park.  It is roadside so expect just that for this campground.  It has plenty of trees and sites for all different sized vehicles and tents.  The cabins and bathrooms are nice and clean.  The employees are always nice and helpful.  We have stayed here several times and have always had a good time.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    Convenient and easy

    Lots of pull thru sites, full hook up, even have dog park and laundry.

  • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Sweetwater RV Park

    Great location at SML

    Really well thought out campground for RV. Plenty of pull through and back in sites. Level sites, utilities are well placed and good height. Well maintained…you can tell staff takes pride in campground. Multiple dog parks….so convenient so you have one close to your area. Lots of recreation, great pickle ball area and pool. Laundry is honor system per load …pay in office.

  • Gary G.
    Aug. 29, 2020

    Douthat State Park Campground

    Outstanding State Park!

    Douthat (Doubt-that) State Park is a campers dream!  Level sites with or with out hook ups, well spaced apart, fairly private, and in the middle of a pretty good forest!

    Kid and pet friendly, this park has a nice lake for Kayaking/canoeing, multiple hiking trails with views, excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, and great biking trails.

    It is off the beaten path so it appears to be less visited than other Virginia State Parks.

  • Mike C.
    Sep. 24, 2020

    Morris Hill Campground

    Tucked Away

    Site 034 Loop Morr Dates of Stay: August 30-Sept 1 Average Daily Temp: 78 Average Nighlty Tem: 64 Pet friendly spot with access to firewood on site for small fee. Tent pad, fire pit, one picnic table, and lamp post on site. Close access to Lake area with a 100 yard walk through pathway off the site. Great shade for those hot sunny days. Plenty of room on the site for tents and vehicle parking. Neighboring sites offer fair amount of privacy. Site had some trash scattered around by previous visitors. Needed to do some checking for broken flashlight pieces and glass before I allowed my dog free roam.

Guide to Roanoke

Discover the best spots for pets-allowed camping near Roanoke, Virginia, where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.

Pet-friendly campgrounds include Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

  • This campground offers a variety of amenities, including drinking water and electric hookups, making it a comfortable stay for both you and your pet at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground.
  • With features like picnic tables and fire rings, you can enjoy cozy evenings with your pet by your side.
  • The campground is also big rig friendly, ensuring ample space for larger RVs and trailers.

Dog owners appreciate Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing

  • At Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, you'll find spacious sites perfect for setting up tents or RVs, allowing your dog to roam freely.
  • The property features a creek that kids and pets can explore, providing hours of fun and adventure.
  • Friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal spot for families traveling with pets.

Pet owners like Peaks Of Otter Campground

  • Nestled at the foot of Sharp Top mountain, Peaks Of Otter Campground is a great choice for hiking enthusiasts with pets, offering numerous trails nearby.
  • The campground is well-maintained, featuring clean restrooms and picnic areas where you can relax with your pet after a day of exploration.
  • With a peaceful setting and bear boxes available, you can enjoy your stay without worrying about wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Roanoke, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Roanoke, VA is Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway with a 4.2-star rating from 23 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Roanoke, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 82 dog-friendly camping locations near Roanoke, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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