Within the John W Flannagan Recreation Area, Cranesnest Campground provides Army Corps of Engineers-managed camping along the reservoir shoreline. The facility accommodates RVs up to 50 feet with electric hookups at sites priced between $20-$24 per night.
Campers can reserve sites in advance and bring pets to this drive-in campground that features picnic tables and allows campfires. The location offers direct fishing access to the reservoir waters. For different terrain, Pound River Campground sits northwest along flowing water rather than the lake setting here.
Description
Overview
The John W. Flannagan Dam & Reservoir Area boasts an expansive lake nestled in the rolling green Cumberland Mountains of southwest Virginia, offering visitors an oasis of recreation in the summer months. The nearby dam, built primarily for flood control for the Cranesnest and Pound Rivers, creates a breathtaking lake that is maintained at nearly 1,400 feet above sea level. This facility is an ideal spot for picnicking, water activities and hiking.
Recreation
Flannagan's reputation as a fisherman's paradise is well-known. Visitors can enjoy secluded coves of deep, clean water that are well-stocked with bass, walleye and trout. Boating, canoeing, whitewater rafting and biking top the long list of activities available nearby.
Facilities
The campground offers campsites with electric hookup options, bath houses, playgrounds, launch ramps and picnic shelters with grills and horseshoe pits which provide an ideal location for parties and other get-togethers.
Natural Features
The John W. Flannagan Dam, completed in 1964, carves out a 1,145-acre lake with nearly 40 miles of beautiful shoreline in the lush Virginia mountains.
Nearby Attractions
Breaks Interstate Park is nearby, offering lodging, dining, a museum, gift shop, rafting, canoeing, rock climbing and other outdoor activities.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Due to planned construction at Cranesnest Campground, we regret to inform our customers that we will be temporarily closing the campground to allow the re-surfacing of roadways, pull-offs, and campsite entrances to be completed. Once the work is complete, we will re-open the reservation window to allow customers to make reservations. We will also extend the camping season to allow additional time to camp due to the closure. Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for any inconvenience. Alternatively, you may choose to make a reservation at Pound River Campground and/or Lower Twin Campground.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCranesnest Campground (VA) is located in Virginia near Clintwood
Directions
From Clintwood, VA main street turn left onto Rt. 83. Travel 2.6 miles and turn left onto Cranesnest Campground Rd. Travel 2.8 miles to the campground.
Address
2689 Cranesnest River Campground Rd
Clintwood, VA 24228
Coordinates
37.1497222 N
82.4100583 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- 50 Amp Hookups
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 22 min from Kingsport, TN
- 1 hr 33 min from Johnson City, TN
- 2 hrs 8 min from Morristown, TN
- 2 hrs 35 min from Beckley, WV




