The Bluefield area sits at elevations ranging from 2,600-3,000 feet in the Appalachian Mountains, with campgrounds experiencing significant temperature variations even during summer months. Camping near Bluefield offers access to the New River watershed and its tributary streams, with several campgrounds positioned along these waterways for fishing and kayaking opportunities. Most sites in the region remain open from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls year-round: Camp Creek State Park features multiple waterfall trails with varied difficulty levels. "The hiking is difficult in some areas but spectacularly beautiful. The campground staff was very friendly, and the amenities were clean and kept up," notes Julie B. from Mash Fork Campground.
Fishing access for all skill levels: Deer Trail Park & Campground offers a stocked fishing pond that doesn't require a state fishing license. "There is literally something for everyone. Playgrounds, Noah's Ark, a clean heated pool, a game room and a beautiful catch and release pond. If you are from out of state you won't have to pay a huge fee to fish because this private pond doesn't require a fishing license," writes Connie S.
Trail riding opportunities: Trailhead ATV Resort connects directly to regional trail systems. "Gotta love camping and riding ATVs!" mentions Charli R. The resort provides direct trail access from campsites, eliminating the need for loading and unloading equipment.
Summer water activities: Multiple campgrounds maintain swimming facilities for cooling off during hot months. "The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms... Would stay again," reports Noel L. from Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
What campers like
Private woodland sites: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Bluefield offer secluded spots away from neighboring campers. "Our site (44) is great, right by the trail and creek. Super nice hosts and everyone we met was friendly. Very quiet place," writes Greg S. about Stony Fork Campground.
Creek-side camping: Stony Fork Campground provides sites along flowing water that adds natural white noise. "We needed a break from the drive. This campsite was perfect. Cool and quiet. Stony Fork Creek flows through the middle of the campsite, and the bridges are marked with a flood scale, so avoiding this place during heavy rains might be advised," suggests Brian M.
Free camping options: Walnut Flats offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "This is a wonderful spot. It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didn't smell," reports Alice S. The campground connects to hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail across the road.
Family activities: Several campgrounds maintain recreation areas specifically designed for children. "This quaint little family owned park is beautifully manicured with a babbling brook that the kids can wade in. There is literally something for everyone," writes a reviewer about Deer Trail Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability of facilities: Some campgrounds have limited services outside peak season. "We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient. Rustic camping is fine when we have planned for it," notes Jessica D. about Pipestem Resort State Park.
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds near Bluefield have spotty cell service. "No service for Verizon users... Sites have wifi but I could only get it to work 20% of the time," explains Nicole M. from Mash Fork Campground.
Site variations within campgrounds: Pipestem Resort State Park Campground has significant differences between camping areas. "The water/electric sites surround a large field. These sites tend to be sunny. 1-49 are in the woods. The sites seem small, but the perimeter sites face the woods," advises Cynthia K.
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation means weather can change quickly. "On our way back from Maumee we needed a break from the drive. This campsite was perfect. Cool and quiet," shares Brian M. about Stony Fork Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping options: Royal Oak Campground — Hungry Mother State Park offers elevated tent sites that kids enjoy. "All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole," explains Katrin M.
Kid-friendly trails: Several campgrounds feature shorter hiking options suitable for children. "Great place for the whole place is paved so it was great for scooters. It's a 3/4 mile loop around the campground," shares Greg S. about Stony Fork Campground.
Private homestead experience: For families wanting total seclusion, Goforth Mountain Homestead offers an exclusive camping experience. "We are a private homestead with only one site for a single tent (though you can bring more guests and place more tents in more of a free range scenario). You will have the whole property to yourself to fish the 1 acre pond and hike around the 76 acre land," explains the property manager.
Entertainment facilities: Some campgrounds maintain recreation buildings for rainy days. "This location sites were good. It has a nice playground for kids, a pool, a game building," notes Ed C. about Deer Trail Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "About half of the 50 sites don't have facilities but about a dozen have W/E (30A) while the other dozen have just electric hookup," explains Bran P. from Stony Fork Campground.
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. "Only down fall is if you have a big fifth wheel turning into the off road area trailer may hit box of your truck. Caution may damage your vehicles," warns Samuel C. about Deer Trail Park.
Level sites: RVers appreciate campgrounds with properly graded sites. "Our site was level. The sites are spaced perfectly, the forest is beautiful, and the creek is super clear and clean," shares Greg S. about Stony Fork.
Quick overnight options: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Bluefield offer convenient access from major highways. "Fast curbside check-in took us straight to our site. We only stayed overnight left in the morning but it was nice and quiet easy on and off of 81," reports Mary P. about Wytheville KOA.
Legend
