The best camping near Jefferson National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Jefferson National Forest adventure.

100% (24 reviews)

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

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Top-rated campgrounds near Jefferson National Forest

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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

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Mountaintop Retreat

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

Voted #2 campground in West Virginia by Hipcamp guests!! - Huge Thank You to you guys! Book before 9-15-24 for a free bag of firewood. Mushroom Trail and giant connect 4 game is now open and free to all guests. We are located just 15 minutes from New River Gorge State Park. Corn hole boards and bags provided. 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 road 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 nothing short of amazing. The sunrise and the stars out here on a clear night are two 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

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100 Acre Wood

3 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Draper, VA

100 Acres of forested land in the Draper, Virginia area with scattered clearings that are connected by various roads/trails throughout. Over the years cutting roads has been a hobby that has resulted in miles of cleared pathways throughout the property that are perfect for hiking, running, cycling, and horseback riding. The property includes a small stream, several ravines, ridge lines and trails to explore. We frequently encounter deer, rabbits, squirrels, and the occasional turkey, black bear, coyotes and Bigfoot. The thing people seem to enjoy most is the privacy and and quiet that allows you to connect with nature with no one else around. Things to watch out for other than the wildlife mentioned above the two main concerns in this part of Virginia are deer ticks and poison ivy. We are located about 5 minutes from I-81 or 15 minutes from I-77 making it an easy place to stop when passing through on your way to other adventures. If you are coming on I-81, use exit 89-A. Don't let Google maps take you to Frog Level Ct near the town of Pulaski (LOL). Nearby attractions include Appalachian Gem and Gold Mine on Route 100 (5 min), New River Trail State Park (10 min), Claytor Lake State Park (20 min) and the Town of Draper has a couple small town shops to explore including The Draper Mercantile and Trading Company and the newly opened Conery where you can get wonderful ice cream cones and more. We love hosting campers and are happy to help make accommodations to help you have an enjoyable stay. We have 3 sites but only allow 2 to be in use at a time on the property. This insures that all guests continue to feel complete privacy from others and allows us to always have an alternate site available if campers want to change. Available "Extras" include portable toilet setup, Woodshop class making a cutting board, big foot siting's as well as various camping gear items and games. If there are other extra's you would like to see or something you forgot to bring please let us know and we will see what we can do.

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New River Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Lansing, NC

Escape to New River Ridge, a stunning 14-acre retreat nestled atop a wooded ridge just 20 minutes from bustling West Jefferson, NC. Here, you'll be enveloped by breathtaking long-range mountain views and the serene beauty of nature, making it the perfect getaway for peace and relaxation. Our property features a flat, open ridge and a dedicated deck with comfy adirondack chairs and a cozy fire pit perfectly positioned for enjoying beautiful sunrises, mountain views, fall colors and evenings under the stars. Whether you’re sharing stories, making s'mores, or just reflecting on the beauty of Mother Nature, this spot is designed for unforgettable moments. Experience the beauty of sunrise over the mountains each morning, and enjoy the privacy and tranquility that our expansive grounds offer. Just a short drive away, you can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities: fish or kayak on the pristine North Fork New River or Helton Creek just seconds away. Hike in the stunning Grayson Highlands State Park just across the Virginia line, or explore the iconic Appalachian Trail. Check out the Virginia Creeper Trail, a historic railroad turned biking trail, for an epic cruise down a mountain. Pop down to the iconic, small town main street of Jefferson Ave. in West Jefferson to visit local coffee and retail shops, restaurants, outfitters and breweries. At New River Ridge, you’ll find the perfect blend of natural beauty, privacy, and proximity to incredible attractions. Come and create lasting memories in this picturesque mountain paradise!

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Stormbrew Farm

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Abingdon, VA

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land:An agrarian dream- a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. For a drink by the water, head to Abingdon Vineyards- only 10 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.

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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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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 • 70 minutes to New River Gorge Bridge

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Bee Hive on the Mountain w/ Hot Tub

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Fancy Gap, VA

Elevated eclectic yurt with wrap-around porch and mountain view; nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and only 5 miles away from Fancy Gap, VA. Enjoy the stillness of a get-away with the convenience of easy access to amenities. Great for small groups (including families with children) or can be reserved for larger groups in conjunction with neighboring yurts (3 total). Dog friendly. Fresh mountain air and bright stars included with reservation.

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Creeping Thyme Forest

7 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Abingdon, VA

Primitive, remote camping. Nestled between small mountain ranges. Adjacent to mountain stream. Fishing pond. Wooded and open sites available. Rough gravel road loops around camping areas. Generally a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, unless you feel adventurous.

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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.

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WindSong in the treetops/hot tub,

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Fancy Gap, VA

Just a couple of acres, tucked into the woods, with two other yurts, at different elevations for privacy. Firepits, hammocks, propane firepit and furniture on the lower deck, a hot tub on the upper deck. A huge soaking tub and tiled walk in shower in the bath.Heated and air conditioned with a minisplit and a propane fireplace. This yurt has a washer and dryer, a great coffee selection, full kitchen with a motion sensor faucet. Star gazer paradise, and nearby hiking including Devels Den (3 miles away), Cumberland Knob, Buffalo Mountain, New River Trail. Several wineries nearby including Iron Heart, Chateau Morrisette and Villa Appalachia. This yurt is pet friendly with a gated deck. The pet fee is an additional $25. I provide directions to this yurt, once you reach Fancy Gap, so you are on the easiest route. This yurt is at a high elevation and requires steps from the lower parking. Four wheel drive is best in snowy weather. pet friendly, with a fee of $25. per stay.

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Campjames

1 site · Tent57 acres · Fries, 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 land Learn 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.

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.