The Pines Campground

Hikers returning from McAfee Knob often discover The Pines Campground as a convenient overnight stop in Jefferson National Forest. This US Forest Service campground operates from April through December, accommodating RVs up to 16 feet alongside tent campers on level gravel pads. The forested setting provides fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, with bear-proof trash containers addressing local wildlife presence.

Most sites offer limited privacy between neighbors, though the campground's compact layout means campers rarely struggle to find an available spot, even on weekend arrivals. Chris D. notes he "showed up right at 10pm and luckily found an empty spot" after his hike. Sites closer to the access road experience more traffic noise, while those farther back sit nearer the creek that runs through the property.

The campground includes lampposts for evening navigation and allows both pets and alcohol. A water pump exists on-site but functions intermittently according to recent visitors. Cell service reaches most areas of the campground. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore campgrounds near Jefferson National Forest throughout the surrounding national forest lands.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Location

Public Campground

The Pines Campground is located in Virginia

Detail location of campground

Directions

In New Castle, VA, take State Rt. 615 north 2.6 miles to State Rt. 609. Turn left onto Rt. 609 and go 2.2 miles to State Rt. 611. Turn left onto Rt. 611 and go 3.3 miles to campground sign (State Rt. 617). Turn right onto Rt. 617 and go 5.1 miles to another campground sign. Turn left into campground.

Coordinates

37.60500094 N
80.07700097 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


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Reviews

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4.5

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4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the level gravel pads and good site spacing at this wooded campground. Basic facilities are available though some maintenance issues noted. Privacy concerns were mentioned by several campers.

Reviewed Sep. 13, 2021

Nice sites

Stayed here on a whim after hiking up to McAfee Knob. Showed up right at 10pm and luckily found an empty spot. Got a fire going and made some dinner. Not the best privacy but at night there were no issues. Nice level gravel pads that we just pitches a mosquito pop up and slept on the ground.

Sitenot sure
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2020

Nice place to stop

We stopped here on our way to the Smokies. It has bear proof trash and and vaulted toilets. We got here around 5pm on a Saturday and had 3-4 sites to choose from! It lacked privacy, which is why I gave only 3 stars. We stayed at site 8.

  • Review photo of The Pines Campground by Carlie S., August 8, 2020
  • Review photo of The Pines Campground by Carlie S., August 8, 2020
  • Review photo of The Pines Campground by Carlie S., August 8, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Oct. 18, 2019

Nice campground.

Good spot. Nice sized sites. Could be better patrolled. There was a group of people that brought a drum and just beat on it until about midnight. The lower sites were a little closer to the road. There is a water pump, but currently broken.

Reviewed Oct. 5, 2019

paradise

wonderful lil campground nestled away in the woods. quiet, peaceful and serene. pit toilet's and trash bins on site. lampposts, fire rings and picnic tables on each site. level gravel pads on most sites. wildlife galore. truly wonderful small campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at The Pines Campground in Virginia?

The Pines Campground offers basic amenities suitable for a rustic camping experience. Each site features a fire ring, picnic table, and level gravel pad for tent setup. The campground provides bear-proof trash bins and vault toilets. There are lampposts at the sites for minimal lighting. A water pump is available on the property, though it may occasionally be out of service. The campground maintains a natural setting with minimal development, making it ideal for campers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience without modern conveniences.

What do camper reviews say about The Pines Campground?

The Pines Campground is consistently described as a peaceful, wooded retreat perfect for nature lovers. Campers appreciate the level gravel pads and adequately sized sites. The quiet atmosphere is frequently highlighted, though occasional noise from other campers can occur on busy weekends. Wildlife sightings are common in this serene forest setting. Some sites lack privacy compared to more secluded campgrounds. The campground is rarely full, with sites typically available even when arriving later in the day. It's considered a good stopover location for hikers exploring nearby attractions like McAfee Knob.

Are there photos of The Pines Campground to view before visiting?

Photos of The Pines Campground are available online through various camping platforms and forest service websites. These images typically showcase the wooded setting, gravel camping pads, fire rings, and picnic tables at individual sites. Visual content helps prospective visitors understand the campground's rustic nature and forest environment before arriving. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check official Virginia recreation websites or camping apps like The Dyrt. Calling the managing ranger district can also provide information about where to find updated images of the campground.