Best Camping in and near Jefferson National Forest

100% (24 reviews)

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Jefferson National Forest

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Jefferson National Forest

Caldwell Fields Group Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Sunrise Cabin

1 site In Jefferson National Forest

Stony Fork Campground

50 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

High Knob Recreation Area

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Cave Mountain Lake Group Campground

1 site In Jefferson National Forest

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(2)

Hopper Creek Group Campground

1 site In Jefferson National Forest

Steel Bridge Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Boley Fields Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Jefferson National Forest

100%

(5)

Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

White Rocks Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

from

$4

/ night

Cave Springs Recreation Area

37 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

from

$12

/ night

Blue Springs Gap Cabin

1 site In Jefferson National Forest

The Pines Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Little Fort Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

North Creek Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Walnut Flats Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Stony Fork Cabin

1 site In Jefferson National Forest

Fox Creek Horse Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Raccoon Branch Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Bark Camp Recreation Area

34 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Comers Rock Recreation Area

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Grindstone Campground

60 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Raven Cliff Picnic Shelter and Campground

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(3)

Raven Cliff Picnic Shelter and Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

from

$5

/ night

Cane Patch Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Beartree Campground

38 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Hurricane Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Jefferson National Forest

95%

(20)

Burke’s Garden Camping ⛺️

10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Tazewell, VA

Learn more about this land:Open pasture with working general store Monday through Saturday. Homemade food with rest rooms and plenty of room to play. Minutes from the Appalachian Trail. Bicycle rentals also available on site.

Booked 1 time

Bland Mountain Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Bland, VA

100 peacful acres adjacent to the Jefferson National Forest. Beautiful mountain views and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in this quiet get-away location. You are likely to see some deer strolling by and maybe hear an owl or whippoorwill in the evening. Lots of fireflies in season. Firepit available and firewood for sale. 30 amp and 50 amp electric hook ups as well as water. Suitable for smaller campers. Just a few miles away is the Appalachian trail and the Trail Boss Loop, along with easy access to a lovely stream. Just 15 minutes from I-77. There is approximately 1/2 mile gravel road from the end of the paved road to the campsite.

99%

(860)

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

7 sites · RVs5 acres · Allisonia, VA

LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp Standing on the New River Trail looking up where the campsites are located will give you the feeling that you truly are sleeping on the edge at Rivers Edge campground. Unique limestone formations can be found on the property. Large birds and even an eagle or two seem to prefer this area for hunting. Watch from a distance as farmers cut hay throughout the summer. This private cliff top setting has 6 newly created camp sites on 5 Acres. Enjoy less crowds and more nature! The long range views or the river and farmlands will take your breath away. At the bottom of the drive you have access to the New River and the New River Trail so bring your bike, or kayak for more fun. Bike the trail, bird watch, or star gaze; the choices are endless. Don't be surprised to see bear, turkey, eagles, deer, or a coyote. PLEASE give us a rating on YELP also if you enjoyed your stay! The direct link to our place on Yelp is https://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-edge-trail-camp-barren-springs?osq=Camping Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp This is a great spot for people looking for peace and quiet. 26 Minutes upriver of Claytor Lake State Park. There is a zoo in nearby Ft. Chiswell. Each site has full hook ups. No tent sites at the present time. Area grocery stores are located about 30 minutes away in Wytheville, Pulaski and Hillsville. A portion of the profits will be donated to a non-profit! Bookmark the direct link to our site here on HipCamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/discover/virginia/rivers-edge-trail-camp

96%

(34)

'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

100%

(1)

Under the Trees with 3 Goats

1 site · Tent10 acres · Bluefield, VA

Located on the outskirts of Bluefield, Va., our backyard is located on ten acres once owned by a veterinarian. We've raised goats here for 30 years. Hemlock and black walnut trees border pastures where you can pitch your tent. Wake up to the sounds of birds, a neighborhood rooster, and "baaa-ing” baby goats saying it's time for breakfast. While you’re here you can....- Take a swim in the town’s gorgeous pool, just two miles away, one of the few pools that still has a high diving board. - Bring your bikes and a camera: You'll be minutes away from the two-lane, shady, Wrights Valley Road that takes you by centuries-old farm buildings and fields. You’ll pass old country churches and cross Wrights Valley Creek. - Visit one of the oldest graves in Maple Hill Cemetery, that of a Civil War soldier. Only a 5 minute way away, the restored historic section of the cemetery honors the markers of many black people buried there. The Norfolk and Southern Railroad runs south of the cemetery, alongside an old American Indian trail. At the Sanders House Center historic site near downtown Bluefield Va, you can see the log cabin built by my Bailey ancestors, founding settlers of Tazewell County. - Coming by motorcycle? The challenge of the Back of the Dragon Road is 15 minutes away.Learn more about this land:Either pitch your tent on a grassy site in the east yard with the goats, or under the hemlocks with a fence between you and the goats. Use the picnic table, chairs, grill and portable fire pit. The neighbor's house next to the yard adds a bit of security to the site. Because of Covid-19, I'm restricting use of the house's half bath and toilet at this time, so you won't be able to use those. Click on my name to get more details about my place.

82%

(57)

Channels Park Edge Campsites

6 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Rosedale, VA

Primitive campsites are located within one and a half mile of the Channels State Park entrance. One can hike, bike or drive to the Channels if that's your destination. Beautiful views, forested hiking trails on old logging roads are plentiful on our 125 wooded acres. Wildlife abounds in this remote setting. Other interesting features are nearby salt mines with Civil War history and a nearby farm store, Goshen Homestead, less then 2 minutes away. There you will find firewood for sale, pastured poultry products like eggs and chicken, grass-fed milk meats and cheeses, ferments, dried fruits, baking supply like grains and flour, etc. All organic and non-GMO. You will be sure to find all your breakfast, lunch and dinner needs. The town of Lebanon is about 15 minutes away. Breaks Interstate Park is within an hour drive. Surprisingly, most phones get full service.

Booked 2 times

Buckhorn Mountain

4 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Bastian, VA

200 acres of beautiful mountain, spring water fed. Lot's of trails for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and mountain climbing. Lot's of free firewood, mountain springs for drinking. We also have a spot for 1 rv or travel trailer, access to electricity and water but no sewage. Campers must bring their own camping toilet. Short distance from Hatfield and McCoy's trailhead for you atv and side-by-side riders. Only 2.1 miles from I-77. Come visit us on our beautiful, slice of heaven.

98%

(84)

Mountaintop Retreat

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres · Jumping Branch, WV

Want to see 5 star panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains? This ultra safe, ultra private property is located only 10 minutes off interstate 77. There is only one farm past ours so traffic is very minimal. Plenty of room to do what you and your pets want to do while exploring on our 60 acres. Come enjoy the view and recharge and relax in peace and quiet. The sun rises up behind the view and lets you see just a little further. It is magical and one of the best things this mountain has to offer. It will not disappoint. We can accommodate up to a 35ft RV. The best part is no long walk for the best views! You can park at the campsites and camp on flat ground. Each campsite features a bench and a camp cooktop. Nothing is needed to use the cook tops other than a campfire. The area has many parks, rivers and trails for fly fishing, kayaking, biking, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, and photography, etc. View stars as only those miles away from any light can experience. The crickets and whippoorwills will sing you to sleep. Google link, trail map, and campsite location map will be emailed the day of arrival. Close to: Winterplace Ski Resort New River New River Gorge State Park Fayetteville Rafting & Tourism Camp Creek State Park Little Beaver State Park Grandview State Park Pipestem State Park Twin Falls Resort Babcock State Park Kanawha State Park Hawks Nest State Park Pinnacle Rock State Park Brush Creek Falls Bluestone State Park Sandstone Falls State Park

100%

(49)

IRON Peak Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents88 acres · Wytheville, VA

We have traced this farm's history back to the 1750's when a mill was built on Reed Creek. There is a log home that we know that was built in 1840 still on the premises. The white farm house across from the camp sites was built in 1877. The fish hatchery that is still in operation today was built by the Federal Government in 1923. Learn more about this land: Camp site situated along 3 separate creeks connected by one large private 11 acre field. Tate Run/ Reed Creek/ Venrick Run. The farm house is across the road and the whole property comprises of 88 acres of woods and pasature. The farm house was built in 1877 and the Ranch currently operates with 30 head of cattle and a working trout hatchery. We have traced this farm lineage back to the 1750's when a mill was constructed at the meeting of Tate Run and Reed Creek by Swiss Immigrant Henry Grubb. Camping here along Reed Creek is peaceful and quiet. Located just a few short miles from town it is easy to get to ...but a long way from the world at large. In Short, it is lovely and we hope you enjoy it.

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(50)

Refugio Entre Pinos

2 sites · RVs38 acres · Marion, VA

Originally homesteaded and farmed by settlers in the late 1800s/early 1900s, this property is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can still view remains of the old stone wall the original settlers built by hand on the edges of the property! The Blue Ridge, part of the Appalachian range, was created by the uplifting of the Earth's tectonic plates 1.1 billion to 250 million years ago, making them the 2nd oldest Mountain Range in the world! You will also be able to view huge growths of Mountain Laurel growing in the Pines and maybe catch it in full bloom. The White Pines were planted over 30 years ago. We are 5 miles from Marion, VA: home of The Lincoln Theatre and Emory-Henry Medical College, and a small community hospital. Also close to Hungry Mother State Park (hiking, swimming, paddling, and fishing), Mt Rogers Recreational Area (where the highest peak in Virginia can be found!), George Washington-Thomas Jefferson National Forests, Grayson Highland State Park (where you can view wild ponies!), the Back of the Dragon (motorcyclists' dream ride on Rt. 16), the Appalachian Trail (accessible just 2 miles away!), The Virginia Creeper Trail, The Crooked Road Music Trail, Bristol Motor Speedway, the Carter Family Fold, Abingdon, VA (Barter Theatre), and Bristol VA/Bristol TN. We are also close to mountain stream fishing, small lake fishing, swimming area & beach (In Hungry Mother SP), wildlife management areas & miles of trails in different parks that offer tons of natural amenities and outdoor opportunities. You will be close enough for day trips to Burke's Garden, VA, Blacksburg/Christiansburg/Roanoke area, Hillsville, Floyd, Independence, Galax, Mouth of Wilson, or the Sparta area of North Carolina. Learn more about this land: Recent upgrade: 50 Amp electrical service, as well as 30 Amp and 120 Volt power! This is a FULL HOOK-UP, VERY EASY PULL THROUGH SITE!-WATER, SEWAGE, AND 50/30amp/120 volt ELECTRICITY. EASY PULL THRU IN/OUT! Water is filtered well-water; potable and what we drink but you may wish to have your own bottle water for food/drinking use. CLOSE TO HUNGRY MOTHER STATE PARK, GRAYSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK, JEFFERSON NATIONAL FOREST, MOUNT ROGERS RECREATIONAL AREA, THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL, THE TRANSVIRGINIA BICYCLE ROUTE, AND THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL! Convenient to I-81 and Route 16- Back of the Dragon. We just added a new driveway connection to make it even easier to pull back onto the road! This area has a very different climate than many other parts of Virginia. We are located in a Köppen Climate Classification Zone Cfb, which is a Temperate Oceanic Climate (or sometimes called Marine West Coast Climate). Yes, the Southwest Mountains of VA have a maritime climate! Think Coastal Alaska, Pacific Northwest, or British Columbia to get an idea of our climate. All of which means our summers are cooler (average of 83 in August) with low humidity, and our winters are milder. So this is a great place to escape the hot humid Virginia summers! We experience four true seasons, and the colors in the fall season are some of prettiest on the East Coast and perfect for leaf peeping! We have deer, wild turkey, bear, chipmunks, raccoons, wild rabbits, Whip-poor-wills, and opossums on the property. Plus, the fireflies at night can be beautiful! Plus, we've yet to see a mosquito! You will be the only camper on the property, my RV is on site and is used as guest quarters when I have company, but this is rare. There is no cell phone coverage and limited strength wifi, so unplug and relax! The Camping Site is part of our mountainside property located in Long Hollow and sits on the edge of 7 acres of pasture, which leads to 7 acres of White Pine Forest you are welcome to use for walking, wildlife viewing, dog walking, etc.. It is conveniently located less than 2/10s a mile from Rt. 16, and 5 miles from I-81. Our neighbors are quiet but you may hear their donkey braying or chickens clucking. We ask that you do not disturb the neighbors or interact in any way with their animals. There is a Firepit and Picnic Table for your use. I try to keep a supply of firewood on hand which you are welcome to use, but if I run out you may have to get some wood elsewhere. You can scavenge fallen wood to burn.....

100%

(11)

Hatfield McCoy Mountain Goat Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Rock, WV

As your host, (Kim) I offer a small field for camping which is attached to my 1800s farmhouse to enjoy. We are on the side of a Mountain, in West Virginia. Almost heaven! Come stay in my field with your tent or truck camper or small RV. I can give you some electricity with an extension cord, and some cold well water via a hose. I will offer you all the hospitality you need or none at all! I am on the mountain just up the road from the Bluestone River. You can drop your four-wheeler off of your trailer and take off down the country roads to access the Hatfield McCoy trail system. The views and scenery are fantastic! Come be my guest. I would truly love to have you! This is a working small farm. I have an abundance of wildlife here in the area. Local deer love to come nibble on the apples and pears. There could be bears, bobcats, rabbits, foxes, birds, bees, eagles, coyotes, and the occasional human. Location is near the road so that four-wheeling equipment can be pulled in, the campsite is nearby on the edge of the forest. NOTE: You may hear cars, other 4-wheelers, cows mooing, goats baaa-ing, roosters crowing, chickens clucking, ducks quacking, dogs barking, and children playing, but overall will experience a serene mountain environment. Coming soon... Glamping! **NOTE: We have received our 4 COVID-19 vaccinations* Current Farm Animals: Radar - Fainting Goat Buck Celine - Fainting Goat Doe This mama goat kidded on April 6, 2023 giving birth to a beautiful set of twins. One girl and one boy! Both adorable. Wild Cherry - Fainting Goat Doe, (Expected to kid Spring 2023) Various chickens and chicks Claire - Livestock Guardian Dog Leo - Small funny rescue dog Nova, Salem and Spooky Kitty - Barn cats Coffee and Doughnuts - Resident Guinea pigs. Coming soon- Bunnies and more! We would like to rescue a female mini pig and/or a mini donkey to live our their days here with love and care. We will be planting a Spring garden that will sustain us until Fall. Kim loves to share her homegrown all natural produce with her guests. Fresh eggs can be purchased by the half dozen. I can email the map to the Hatfield McCoy ATV Trail via link upon the booking and your request. It is legal to drive your four-wheeler on the road to the trail, or even to the corner market here in the unincorporated area of our county. Things to do nearby: PINNACLE ROCK STATE PARK - Pinnacle Rock State Park is known for the 3,100-foot sandstone formation that gives the park its name. Located on U.S. Route 52 near Bramwell in Mercer County, the park includes a wooded area with picnic facilities, hiking trails, and a fishing lake. An overlook from atop Pinnacle Rock is a popular destination and favorite photo spot for park visitors. HATFIELD MCCOY TRAIL - Pocahontas Trail System - Off-Road Four Wheelers. One of the largest continuous areas of the HMT network along with Pinnacle Creek, Indian Ridge, and Warrior trail systems and connectors. Pocahontas Trail System links up to three other Hatfield- McCoy Trail Systems—Indian Ridge, Pinnacle Creek, and Warrior— making for the most continuous miles of trails east of the Mississippi. The trailhead is located in Coaldale, just outside of the town of Bramwell, historically known for its numerous millionaire homes from the early 20th century. BRAMWELL HISTORIC DISTRICT - Once home to the most millionaires per capita in the United States, Bramwell is known for its stately mansions that resulted from the coal boom of the late 19th century. Stroll the historic streets or visit the Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center at the Bramwell Depot. POCAHONTAS EXHIBITION COAL - Also known as Pocahontas Mine No. 1, or Baby Mine, is an inactive coal mine in the Pocahontas Coalfield, near Pocahontas in western Virginia. The mine was the first in the sub-bituminous coal of the Pocahontas Coalfield, opening in 1882. In 1938 it became the first exhibition coal mine in the United States. Uniquely, it was possible to drive one's automobile through the mine, entering through the fan opening and exiting through the original entry. BECKLEY EXHIBITION COAL MINE - Once a working underground coal mine, the exhibition mine is now open for public tours. Visitors can ride a mantrip underground to learn about the history of coal mining as well as tour the buildings of a recreated period coal camp. YOUTH MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA - Located next to the Exhibition Coal Mine, the Youth Museum showcases rotating exhibits on subjects like arts, culture, history, and wildlife. The museum includes a planetarium and a mountain homestead recreating a typical settlement on the Appalachian frontier. CAMP CREEK STATE PARK - This state park is known for its beautiful waterfalls and camping facilities. The park features 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and 7 miles of seasonally stocked trout streams. PIPESTEM RESORT STATE PARK - Set on the scenic Bluestone Gorge, Pipestem offers amenities including dining, golf, and an aerial tram ride. Overnight accommodations are available at the resort’s two lodges, as well as cabins and camping facilities. TWIN FALLS RESORT STATE PARK - Twin Falls attractions include an 1830s-era restored pioneer farm and an 18-hole, par 71 championship golf course. Overnight accommodations are available at the lodge as well as park cottages and camping facilities. WINTERPLACE SKI RESORT - West Virginia’s southernmost ski resort features nine lifts, 27 trails, two terrain parks, a tubing park, and a full-service resort center with dining and entertainment. JEFFERSON NATIONAL FOREST -Explore two national forests in western Virginia that total 1.8 million acres. The Forest Service manages 1 million acres as wilderness areas, meaning they offer mile after mile of unspoiled, pristine lands. Included is Mount Rogers, the highest peak in a state filled with mountains on its western backbone. Mount Rogers is 5,279 feet above sea level. A 3.5-mile trail leads to the top. BLUESTONE STATE PARK - Featuring West Virginia's third-largest body of water, Bluestone Lake. Bluestone State Park is a lakeside retreat located in southern West Virginia. This wilderness park is full of outdoor activities, including boating and fishing opportunities. At Bluestone State Park take in stunning views of the lake. Guests may also enjoy ziplining, mountain bike excursions, and guided fishing trips at nearby Pipestem Resort State Park, located about 20 minutes away. GREENBRIER STATE FOREST - Covering 5,200 acres in southeastern West Virginia, Greenbrier State Forest delivers secluded natural beauty with a wide range of recreational options like fishing, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking. The forest is just a stone’s throw away from the charming and historic towns of White Sulphur Springs and Lewisburg, so visitors can enjoy a day of solitude communing with nature, then venture out for shopping, dining, and the arts. With cabins and camping, Greenbrier State Forest is also an ideal base camp for bicyclists on the neighboring Greenbrier River Trail. NEW RIVER GORGE - New River Gorge National River protects and preserves 53 miles of the New River of the magnificent gorge that this river created. A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

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(63)

Starry Nights New River Gorge

6 sites · RVs, Tents88 acres · Hinton, WV

Welcome to Starry Night New River Gorge of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Starry Nights NRG is 88 acres of mountain top land in the heart of Southeast WV with easy access to a lake, rivers, State Parks, and National Parks. Enjoy long range views to the East and West of the Appalachian and Allegheny Mountains. See the sun rise and fall beyond the distant blue ridge lines as you await vast night skies free of light pollution. Watch the smoke rise from the forests creating clouds after a foggy morning or rain. Discover cliffs, caves, springs and more as you adventure the land. Hike the terrain with the East and West side of the property providing different experiences. All wildlife is in abundance and bird watchers rejoice, the forests and pastures are alive. Enjoy the peace, still and quiet that comes with seclusion deep in the mountains. There are currently three camping sites available. Each one comes with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and an outhouse. Cell phone and satellite service is excellent on the property. Benefits of being at the top. ••• Times include 15 minute descent from property to bottom of mountain ••• • 20 minutes to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve • 30 minutes to NRGNP: Sandstone Falls • 35 minutes to NRGNP Sandstone Visitor Center • 15 minutes to historic downtown Hinton, stores, groceries and gas • 15 minutes to 2000 acre Bluestone Lake State Park and Wildlife Management Area, Bertha location. 20 minutes to Bluestone Lake Marina. 25 minutes to Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management, Indian Mills • 15 minutes to Greenbrier River • 15 minutes to New River • 20 minutes to Bluestone River • 35 minutes to Pipestem Resort State Park • 55 minutes to Winterplace Ski Resort

The best camping near Jefferson National Forest guide

Overview

About

Explore two national forests in western Virginia that total 1.8 million acres. The Forest Service manages 1 million acres as wilderness areas, meaning they offer mile after mile of unspoiled, pristine lands.

Begin with extreme southwestern Virginia at Mount Rogers. It's the highest peak in a state filled with mountains on its western backbone. Mount Rogers is 5,279 feet above sea level. A 3.5-mile trail leads to the top.

Let loose with a yelp of speed at Russell Fork River Gorge. It's one of the deepest river gorges east of the Mississippi. Spend a day here after hiking up Mount Rogers.

See the spooky ghost town of Lignite in Botetourt County. This town thrived on iron ore until the 1920s. The last residents left in the 1950s. Chimneys are the most obvious remnants of this town. Drive to nearby Roaring Run Furnace for another historical site.

Getting to this forest is easy thanks to the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are plenty of campgrounds and cabins for accommodations.