The best camping near Grayson Highlands State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Grayson Highlands adventure.

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Along with hiking and bouldering, these rocky mountains host wild ponies and live music festivals.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Grayson Highlands State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Grayson Highlands State Park

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Grayson Highlands Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Grayson Highlands State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Grayson Highlands State Park

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Waterdog Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Crumpler, NC

Spend the night under the stars… On our quaint 12 acre river bottom tucked away behind the mountains. The campsite is on the edge of the New River, overlooking its clear waters and abundance of wildlife. Listen to the sounds of nature as you fish right off the bank. Enjoy tubing/kayaking/canoeing 5 miles to Zaloo’s or 4 miles to New River Outfitters or take a 1 mile “kid’s trip” from a secluded access to J E Gentry bridge. Our family-friendly site is an economical way to have fun and get in touch with nature. And yes! we are dog-friendly as well! We also run a working Flower Farm! We are in need of volunteers, work in exchange for a camping spot! Message us for more info Please note that cell service is very limited and WiFi is not provided. Prolonged rainy conditions in the river bottom may get muddy, so please be prepared for your stay!

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'Possum Creek Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Elk Creek, VA

My land has a long history... come visit and I'd love to share it.Learn more about this land:2 tent sites offered, Site 1 is on the top of hill shaded by trees overlooking a field and is tent only. Site 2 is a nice level spot on the edge of the woods, which can accommodate tents or an RV. There are fire pits at each site, firewood available. A 120v outlet centrally located in the field. For toilet there's a clean, cute, not creepy, outhouse onsite. No water but there is a small creek that's great for taking a dip in. See photos for camp map. Located in beautiful Elk Creek, this quiet homestead offers a place to pitch a tent, and enjoy nature with endless local adventures at every direction. Lots of biking, hiking, fishing at your fingertips. All attractions are connected by some of Virginia's best dirt and paved roads, motorcycles encouraged! Message me for help route planning. Less than a mile from Falls road, waterfalls snaking along a scenic drive 5 miles from Comers Rock and Jefferson Nat. Forest, birds eye view of Elk Creek valley 8 miles from Hale lake, bring a rod and reel 13 miles to the New River, one of 5 oldest rivers in the world, canoe/kayak/tube rentals available 30 miles from Grayson Highlands and Mt Rogers state parks, highest point in Virginia, wild ponies! Multiple old-time and bluegrass festivals in Elk Creek, Fries, Galax..etc

Blue Bear Mountain Camp

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Boone, NC

Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers year-round camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Car-accessible tent and RV sites in a natural setting. Hike-in sites for those looking for a little more adventure and privacy. Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals for guests wanting a rustic, mountain getaway while staying in comfort. Located just 8 miles north of Boone, NC on over 150 acres of pristine mountain land, miles of hiking trails, a trout pond, and spacious low-density sites allow the guest to get away from it all in a rustic, remote setting. In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 4,000 feet elevation, come enjoy cool mountain breezes and mild temperatures. Blue Bear Mountain is a scenic location for large events such as weddings, corporate events, and family reunions. Come Get away from it all at Blue Bear Mountain! Blue Bear Mountain offers spacious, Low-Density RV camping, spacious, private, rustic car-accessible tent camping, and spacious, private remote tent camping. Blue Bear Mountain also offers luxury Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals to provide you with more choices of how to experience your mountain getaway. In a beautiful mountain setting with incredible views, the Stargazer Domes are a great way to enjoy the camping experience without really roughing it. Great for a romantic getaway or bringing the family. Furnished with a queen size bed, complete with high-quality linens, a bistro table, and chairs, you will stay in complete comfort. Conveniently located near the bathhouse with private bathrooms, a Laundry room, and a dishwashing station. You can drive right up to the handcrafted stargazer dome. Relax and take in the views while sitting around your stone fire ring. A park grill, picnic table, and free bundle of firewood are also provided to complete your glamping getaway.

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The Corner at Spencers' Highland

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Wilson Creek, VA

Learn more about this land: 1/8 acre opening in the corner of our 10 acre property. This opening is surrounded by tall white pines on the border of Grayson Highlands State Park. 100 ft behind the opening is Mill Creek, a spring fed tributary of Wilson Creek, where Rainbow Trout can be found. There are no hookups available at this primitive campsite. Generators are allowed and RV's may dump their grey water.

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OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

5 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Jefferson, NC

www.ontop.camp Update! 11.11.23 the leaves down opening up views that were not there before! If sites are booked still msg asking for availability, there’s a chance! Welcome! Our farm is vast and sparse, focusing on sustainability while giving back to the community. We are a safe haven for animals and humans alike. Situated on and between two peaks of Little Phoenix Mountain range in Jefferson Ashe County. Our sites’ altitudes range from 3100 feet to over 3600 feet, which is a lot of slope and hillside to say the least. As a guest you will be offered insane long views and limited exposure to the oldest registered breed of bovine in the world. Our Scottish Highland Cattle are majestic and fit in quite well in the NC mountainside. Located in the Blue Ridge mountains, we have natural water springs popping out, some of which are tapped to drink from. (10.1.23 currently farm springs are not accessible to guests, shatley springs up the road approx 4miles north has a public spring that we highly recommend) If you are looking for a camping spot that is only 5-10 minutes from town (Jefferson NC or the quaint Downtown West Jefferson) but feels like you're in the middle of no where, then we have it! The Blue Ridge Parkway is less than 20 minutes away and the New River equally close. OnTopOfTheWorld.camp *firewood is available if you pay on site you will have to use Venmo OnTop.camp

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Dark Ridge Hide Out (Adults Only)

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Elk Park, NC

"Adults only" doesn't mean anything other than just "no children", so as to preserve the natural peace and quiet, and assurance that there won't be loud and unruly children on the property. Inquiries and booking requests received after 9: pm may not be answered until the next morning. Dark Ridge Hide Out, is a 20 acre parcel in the Blue Ridge Mountain's on the back side of the Beech Mt Ski Resort in a secluded quiet and safe community with less than a dozen homes in a one mile radius. Away from light and sound pollution. Except for an occasional passing vehicle "and often none at all from 10pm to 6am" all you will hear is the sound of the creek which runs through the lower section by the RV sites, cricket's and frogs at the nearby fish pond and only the light from the moon and star's in the clear mountain sky and fire flies. It is my home place with a tobacco barn and a big combination cattle/tobacco barn built almost entirely just by my Mom and Dad in early 1940"s. My parents and grand parents lived off of the land here and raised cash crops like cabbage, corn and tobacco, we also raised sugar cane and made molasses, we had free range chickens, as many as 50 honey bee hives and over 50 head of cattle, two or three hog's and of course a horse. There was four main fields; two for cow pasture, one meadow to grow hay "now Christmas trees" and the main one on my part where all crops were grown is where the camp sites are. I grew up helping with the crops and other farm chores, one was to go to the pasture and bring the milk cows in and do the milking every day before and after school, feed the hogs and chickens, gather the egg's, let the chickens out in the morning and close the chicken house in the evening to protect them from critters like opossums, raccoons and wildcats. This is where I grew up, my dad grew up and, near where my mother and both of my grandparents grew up. My house was built in 1905 the same year my dad was born. The campsites are on my 20 acre section section of the original 82 acres with the house and barns, the remainder went to my brother but now is out of the family. The section of Elk River with the Compression Falls "45 ft high" and Twisting Falls which is part of Pisgah National Forest is less than two miles from here, and an old logging road going around the mountain above the river for about three miles to another Falls "Elk River Falls, 65 ft high" is a great place to hike or mountain bike. You will be free to explore and hike any part of my property except the house and out building's. The pond's are full of Trout and Blue Gill fish that are like pet's they love little pieces of bread. You can feed the fish but no fishing.

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Rugby Creek - A Mountain Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents63 acres · Mouth Of Wilson, VA

Located in the Appalachian Mountains of SW Virginia. Temperate Climate, Quaint Towns, National Parks & Breathtaking Views. Only a few miles from Grayson Highlands State Park and Mount Rogers National Recreational Area you will discover Rugby Creek, a 63-acre mountain retreat. We have private rentals on our working horse farm and non-profit animal rescue. Whether biking the Virginia Creeper Trail, canoeing/tubing the New River, hiking Grayson Highlands State Park/Appalachian Trail, or choosing a personally guided horseback ride amongst the wild pony herds, at the end of the day let nature call you home as you drift to sleep with the night serenade of crickets and frogs. Enjoy quiet seclusion and escape the reality of the fast-paced life to recharge and reset yourself at Rugby Creek. Visit our website for information/fees on Vacationing with your Horse at https://rugbycreek.com/horse-boarding.

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Hidden River Experience

6 sites · Tents250 acres · West Jefferson, NC

Welcome to the secluded campsite nestled on the banks of the New River! This primitive haven offers a tranquil retreat, allowing you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Surrounded by untouched wilderness, this campsite provides the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. As you settle into this serene paradise, you'll find yourself captivated by the abundance of activities available. Begin your day with a peaceful morning of fishing, casting your line into the pristine waters of the New River in pursuit of the perfect catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this river teems with various species, promising an exciting and rewarding experience. Embark on scenic hikes that lead you through dense forests, revealing stunning vistas and hidden waterfalls. The well-marked trails cater to all skill levels, ensuring everyone can partake in the joys of exploration. You'll have ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photos and make lasting memories along the way. For the more adventurous, hop on a bike and pedal along the winding paths that meander through the wilderness. Feel the rush of wind against your face as you navigate the undulating terrain, taking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. With each turn, new discoveries await, making every bike ride an exhilarating adventure. To fully immerse yourself in the river's splendor, embark on a kayaking journey. Glide along the gentle currents, as the river guides you through stunning landscapes and quiet coves. The New River's calm waters provide an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike. As you explore this campsite's pristine environment, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. From graceful deer grazing in the distance to vibrant birds soaring overhead, nature enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Safety is of utmost importance in this secluded sanctuary. The campsite is well-maintained and offers designated areas for camping, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience. Whether you're setting up your tent or gathering around a crackling campfire, you can rest assured knowing that you are surrounded by a tranquil and safe environment. Prepare to unwind, reconnect with nature, and embrace the simple pleasures of outdoor life at this primitive, secluded campsite on the New River. It's a haven for fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable retreat into the heart of nature.

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NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Jefferson, NC

If you are looking for a secluded campsite deep in the woods, you may want to keep looking. But if you want the ease and peace of a campsite RIGHT ON THE NEW RIVER with everything just steps from your tent, then come out and claim your site! Redemption: To repair or restore. To make good. This campground represents redemption and healing in so many ways. Our hope is that you will find much peace, joy, and adventure here and we promise to do our best to make it everything you expected and more! Numerous large manicured campsites in an open space DIRECTLY ON THE NEW RIVER where adventures abound! Up to 4 guests and 2 tents per site. Newly constructed tiny home provides GLAMPING at its finest! The Liberty cabin shares a space with a few tent sites along the river. With the addition of Liberty, I have limited the number of campers to 4. (Exceptions may be made for holiday weekends). There is plenty of space for everyone and the cabin sits above the tent sites for amazing views and privacy. While HWY 16 can be a bit noisy during busy times, step into the campsites and let the peaceful noise-canceling river serenity whisk you away. Forest views across the river with endless fireflies and stars that light up the night! Zaloo's Canoes, Kayak, and Tubes is within eyesight and will set you up with an amazing float or paddle down river. Plentiful small mouth bass and trout fishing just steps from your site. Outhouse w/washing station. Fire pits at each site as well as a large communal fire pit and picnic tables. Downtown West Jefferson is just 15 minutes away with local breweries, quaint restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, shopping, music, art, and a wonderful farmer's market from May - October. The quaint little town of Lansing, NC is quickly becoming a favorite stop of mine. Check out the Old Orchard Creek General Store, Pie on the Mountain Pizza, the Old Orchard Creek Blueberry Farm, and Molly Chomper for a perfect day in Ashe County. The New River State Park is an easy walk, float, paddle or drive away. This park is absolutely GORGEOUS and impeccably maintained, including hiking trails, public facilities, showers, boat launch and pick up, etc. Just a short drive to multiple Blue Ridge Parkway entry points for ease of access to Boone, Appalachian State University, Blowing Rock, Grandfather Mountain, Banner Elk, and the Linville Gorge. Mount Jefferson and Grayson Highlands are also just a short drive away for unlimited hiking and incredible mountain views. My personal favorite is hiking with the wild ponies at Grayson Highlands! We have Firewood available for a nominal fee. Just let us know and we will make arrangements to have it ready for you upon arrival. Please respect quiet hours between 10 PM and 8 AM each evening.

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Chestnut Hill Camping

1 site · RV, Tent11 acres · Jefferson, NC

Hilltop camping along the New River in the Blue Ridge Mountains. We have a 20 x 30 primitive camping site available, topped with mulch, a chiminea, and a picnic table. The site is surrounded by trees for hammocks and has room for 2 large tents. A fire ring is available for use 100 yards up the hill on a cleared knoll. Please note: The driveway is steep all-wheel or 4-wheel drive is needed for towed campers and camper vans. The driveway leads directly to the campsite. Our secluded 11-acre hilltop property lies just across Chestnut Hill Road from the New River. It is within walking distance of New River Outfitters where you can rent kayaks and canoes, or purchase a fishing license. The New River State Park is just 2 miles away for additional access to the New River and numerous hiking and nature trails. We are located 20 minutes from the charming town of West Jefferson in one direction and 20 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the other. The famous Motley’s BBQ restaurant is only 10 minutes away, and Thistle Meadow Winery is only a 15-minute drive away. Our goal is to provide a quiet, secluded spot for campers to enjoy the beauty of Western North Carolina. Our cleared knoll with a fire ring offers minimal light pollution for night star gazing. A walking trail circles the property and accesses the lower knoll. Enjoy the abundance of wildflowers as you search the wooded hillside for two rocky outcroppings that allow for beautiful views of the river. Welcome to bring all your furry family members, dog bowls can be provided at request. Firewood is available for scavenging throughout the property. A well-maintained and clean Porta Potty screened by a fence is available near the campsite.

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Whitetop Camp / Easy 2WD Access!

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · VA

Location, location! Whitetop Camp is located in the heart of Whitetop, literally just minutes from the start of the Creeper Trail (Whitetop Station), Whitetop Mountain, the Appalachian Trail, and Grayson Highlands State Park. Our property is quiet and serene. A lovely creek runs through the property. There are 32 acres of woods for your camping and hiking enjoyment. There is also a large open field for frisbee and other recreation. A bike rental/shuttle shop, two gas stations, cafe, post office and library are a walkable distance away for your convenience.

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Loafers Joy Meadow

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Zionville, NC

Our site was once part of a much larger farm growing tobacco and raising cattle and other farm animals. The existing tobacco barn was built in the early 1960's. The concrete pad used for RV camping was used to store silage for the cows. The non-potable water source is a mountain spring that has been used on the farm since the 1930's. While many tobacco barns in the area have been torn down for their rusted tin roofing and rustic siding, we have worked to restore the barn and preserve its history.

The best camping near Grayson Highlands State Park guide

Overview

About

Craggy peaks, mountain valleys, and waterfalls tempt hikers and horseback riders to Grayson Highlands State Park. Seasoned hikers can summit Mount Rogers—Virginia’s highest peak—or tackle part of the Appalachian Trail, but 13 short trails also run through the park. Bouldering is equally popular with more than 700 climbing routes, and you can also explore horse trails, fish for wild trout in the creeks, and seefree-roaming herds of wild ponies. Backcountry camping isn’t permitted, but the main campground at Hickory Ridge has standard and electric hookup sites, and there’s also a horse camp, bunkhouse, and yurts.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the park’s 72 campsites, 24 horse sites, and four yurts online.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance and must be made one day before arrival.
Campsites can book up fast, so you should iam to book a minimum of three months in advance.

When to go

Peak season at Grayson Highlands State Park is mid-May through mid-October, and this is the most popular time to hike and boulder. Full-service camping is only available during this period, while primitive camping is possible in shoulder season (March, April, and November). No winter camping is available. Time your visit for one of the park’s summer music festivals: Wayne Henderson Festival (June), Albert Hash Memorial Festival (Labor Day weekend), or Grayson Highlands Fall Festival (end of September).

Know before you go

Grayson Highlands State Park is set along US 58, 25 miles west of Independence and 26 miles east of Damascus.
Day-use parking fees and camping reservation fees are charged at Grayson Highlands. State fishing licences and equestrian permits are also required.
Facilities include a visitor center, country store, restrooms, and picnic areas. Facilities are minimal in the off-season, so bring everything you need with you, including drinking water.
Cell phone service is patchy but emergency coverage is provided, so keep your cell phone charged.
Do not attempt to pet, feed, or interact with the park’s wild ponies. They can bite and kick, and human food can cause colic.
Accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas are available at Grayson Highlands State Park.