The best camping near Blue Ridge Parkway

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

89% (29 reviews)

Buckle up for 469 miles of driving perfection along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Blue Ridge Parkway

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Blue Ridge Parkway

The Milky Way from Rocky Knob Campground

90%

(16)

Rocky Knob Campground

110 sites · RVs, Tents In Blue Ridge Parkway

88%

(13)

Peaks of Otter Campground

140 sites · RVs, Tents In Blue Ridge Parkway

Top-rated campgrounds near Blue Ridge Parkway

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%

(14)

New River Yacht Club

2 sites · Tents10 acres · Independence, VA

Riverfront camping on the New River. Breathtaking views. Scenic and relatively secluded, yet easily accessible. 10 acres in total, 650 feet of river frontage. Excellent location for fishing, tubing, and kayaking. Located less than 5 miles from Independence, Virginia and 10 miles from Galax Virginia.

90%

(56)

K Im M.’s Land

27 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Glade Valley, NC

Shady Rest Campground was opened by by grandfather around 1972. He and my grandmother were avid travelers who wanted to show the Blue Ridge Mountains to other campers who enjoyed a place with beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. The campground is within 2 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is also within driving distance to the New River, Stone Mountain State Park and local golf courses. Trout fishing and hunting are also popular there. The town of Sparta is within 12 miles and they have several restaurants and live music at different locations. In the fall the leaves are also a beautiful attraction and there are several festivals close by! When the holiday season begins it is also time to take the family and find a Christmas tree during the Choose and Cut. Be sure to check the Allegheny County of Chamber website for all activities!

New River Bridge Family Campground,

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Independence, VA

Welcome to the New River Bridge Family Campground located at 4762 Pleasant Grove Road, Independence, Virginia 24348. We are a family friendly campground operating on the banks of the New River. We offer camping, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and more! We welcome you and your family to come visit us soon!

99%

(105)

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!

97%

(104)

Campjames

1 site · TentFries, VA

I started purchasing land in 1984 to create a forest animal wildlife preserve. After retiring from my construction business in New York I have returned to the New River to continue the project. I have a biology degree and raise various types of animals on the landLearn more about this land:Campsite with fire pit with river view near the double shoals . Wood available. Private, beautiful trail to river with immediate access to 60-mile long New River Trail in less than 5 minutes.

100%

(6)

Rogue Trout Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Woodlawn, VA

Rogue Trout Retreat is a brand new recreation destination, offering ~5 open acres of primitive camping and 700+ feet of private trout fishing that connects to the Crooked Creek Fee Fishing park and Wildlife Reserve. The creek is stocked with Rainbow Trout multiple times throughout the week between the months of April and October. Native and Brown Trout are also very commonly found in these waters. The Wildlife Reserve "next door" offers opportunities for 5 miles of stocked trout fishing, 2 miles of wild trout fishing, 1800+ acres of hunting, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife watching. Nearby you'll find all you need in the way of food, supplies, gas, entertainment, sights, and more in the city of Galax, or town of Hillsville. Don't forget to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway, kayak the New River, bike the New River Trail, pick at the Fiddler's Convention, shop multiple boutiques, antique stores, flea and farmer's markets, and visit plenty more small town events that are sure to bring you back to visit Rogue Trout Retreat very soon!

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.

89%

(22)

Hoppers Dairy Road

3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Sparta, NC

noneLearn more about this land:Camping space available for tent, camper or RV with a picnic table and small stream. No power or water at this time but upgrades are planned according to traffic flow. Blue Ridge Parkway two miles away. Country Store 1/2 mile away. New River 6 miles away. The town of Sparta, North Carolina is 3 miles away. Elevation 3000 feet in the mountains of northwest North Carolina. Site #1 is beside the small stream that is on the property. Site # 3 now has a electrical outlet and the fee for Site # 3 is $25.00 per day. Each Site will have an electrical outlet in the future and this will be posted when the outlets have been installed.

100%

(39)

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.

100%

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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.

Booked 2 times

Redeemers Ridge Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs47 acres · Sparta, NC

Elevate your Christian camping/glamping experience to new heights! Returning to nature isn't just enjoyable; it's also beneficial. Yet, there are times when immersing oneself in nature serves as a means to disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with God and others, proving to be the pinnacle of rejuvenation! At Redeemers Ridge Retreat, we foster a Christian atmosphere conducive to spiritual, mental, social, and physical reconnection, rest, and renewal. Our aim at Redeemers Ridge Retreat is to provide a personally enriching experience in intimate proportions. Offering a variety of options ranging from secluded and personal to communal and interpersonal, let us know how we can best assist you. (Refer to the individual Properties page for details and to make reservations.) May 2024: Bookings are now open for 2 Semi-Private RV Sites equipped with all the amenities to accommodate your needs, regardless of your RV's size or model. June 2024: Bookings are now open for the first "Star Gazer," featuring 4 hard-sided (not vinyl) glamping Ecodomes imported from Turkey. Spring 2025: Bookings will open for additional glamping options in "The Barn," a restored 1950s barn loft, and additional Ekodomes.

The best camping near Blue Ridge Parkway guide

Overview

About

There’s not a single stoplight on the Blue Ridge Parkway to interrupt your driving reverie, but deer, turkey, and the occasional bear might slow you down. The byway links Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. You won’t find any commercial developments along the nation’s most popular scenic drive, but there are eight campgrounds, all of which accommodate tents and RVs, and provide restrooms, water, and dump stations. If parkway campgrounds (open May through October) are full, descend on a state park or mountain town.

Where to go

Shenandoah National Park & Rockfish Gap

The parkway begins at Rockfish Gap on Afton Mountain just south of Shenandoah National Park. Explore the new Crozet Tunnel Trail (bring your flashlight), then kick off your drive south. Nearby campgrounds include Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park and Sherando Lake Campground in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest.

Northern Blue Ridge Parkway

The Parkway curves south along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with the Appalachian Trail running alongside it all the way to Roanoke. Scenic overlooks share views of rolling farmlands to the east and the lush Shenandoah Valley to the west. Hiking trails climb to overlooks while side roads lead to charming small towns. Spend the night at Otter Creek Campground or continue south to the campground and lodge at the Peaks of Otter, a high-elevation crossroads.

Southwest Virginia

Anchoring southwest Virginia, Roanoke is a welcoming place for a meal and regional culture. Don’t miss a climb to the Roanoke Star, a neon beacon shining over the Roanoke Valley at night. The Parkway continues south, twisting past wineries, mountain music venues, and a historic mill. Camp at Rocky Knob Campground or a nearby state park.

North Carolina High Country

With dark tunnels, roaring waterfalls, and a lush forest backdrop, the Parkway feels untamed in the high country, a region also known for its Appalachian culture and fun mountain towns, which include Boone and Blowing Rock. Brake for the gorgeous scenery at Linville Falls and Mount Mitchell, which is the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River. You’ll find campgrounds at Doughton Park, Julian Price, and Linville Falls.

Asheville & Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hikers, hippies, and craft beer fans coexist in Asheville, a just-about-perfect mountain town. Camp at the Crabtree Falls Campground or Mount Pisgah Campground along the Parkway or wait until entering Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the end of your scenic journey. There are nine developed campgrounds in the national park. Glamping options, from cabins to tiny houses to yurts, are plentiful in the surrounding mountain foothills.