Welcome to the Roanoke Area in Virginia’s Blue Ridge– your gateway to outdoor adventures and extraordinary camping experiences. Nestled in the heart of heaven Ridge Mountains, Roanoke offers an awesome backdrop for your next camping trip.
Whether you’re a skilled outdoors lover or just seeking to reconnect with nature, the Roanoke Area’s diverse outdoor camping choices have something for everybody.
Finding Your Campground
Glamping in heaven Ridge Mountains
Tent Camping
Cabins & More
Camping at Explore Park
Camping at State Parks
Camping on heaven Ridge Parkway
Camping at Smith Mountain Lake
Camping in the Jefferson National Forest
Camping on the James River
Camping on the Appalachian Path
Camping at Philpott Lake
Camping Tips & Fundamentals
Discovering Your Camping site
Choosing the ideal camping area is necessary for an effective outdoor camping trip. Heaven Ridge Mountains use numerous options to fit your design. From family-friendly sites to backcountry hideaways, you’ll discover a place to pitch your camping tent or park your RV.
Camping in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >
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Glamping in the Blue Ridge Mountains
If you wish to include a touch of high-end to your camping experience, glamping in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the best option. You can delight in the charm of the outdoors while remaining in well-appointed cabins, yurts, or safari camping tents equipped with comfortable beds, private restrooms, and even hot tubs.
Glamping websites in the Blue Ridge Mountains supply a smooth mix of rustic appeal and modern-day comfort, permitting you to unwind and unwind in design amidst the stunning mountain surroundings.
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Tent Camping
Welcome the real essence of camping by pitching your camping tent in the middle of Roanoke’s attractive landscapes. Whether you’re a skilled camper or brand-new to the experience, our tent sites accommodate all levels of outside competence.
Choose from a range of campgrounds near Roanoke, from open meadows to remote forests, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of nature.
Image courtesy of Matt Ross – Franklin County Parks & Entertainment
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Cabins & More
Experience the best mix of comfort and nature in cozy cabins or well-equipped campsites. Find your home away from home in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. From outfitters like Don’s Cab-Inns at Explore Park to an arranged household retreat at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, everybody can take pleasure in a camping experience in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Cabins in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >
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Camping at Explore Park
Located at Milepost 114, Roanoke County’s Explore Park is ideal for a camping adventure along heaven Ridge Parkway. The park includes cabins and camping areas for an overnight stay, a network of hiking and mountain cycling trails, access to the Roanoke River for fishing and paddling, an aerial experience barrier course, disc golf, and food and drink at Twin Creeks Brewpub. Explore Park is less than 15 minutes from fun things to do in nearby downtown locations, consisting of Downtown Roanoke and the Town of Vinton.
Camping alternatives consist of cabins, yurts, recreational vehicle websites, primitive sites, raised platforms, and group websites.
Outdoor camping & Cabins at Explore Park >
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Outdoor Camping at State Parks in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains
Immerse yourself in Roanoke’s natural elegance within its diligently maintained state parks. Each park boasts an unique appeal, from the spectacular surface of Claytor Lake State Park to the tranquil shores of Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
State parks provide various lodging choices, consisting of camping tents and cabins, making it easy to tailor your experience to your design and choices.
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Camping on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Camping in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains along the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway uses an unforgettable outdoor experience. Among the most popular campgrounds in this region is the Peaks of Otter Campground, nestled amidst the lavish forested landscape. Set versus the iconic Peaks of Otter backdrop, this relaxing campground boasts well-kept websites, each with a special appeal.
Found at Milepost 114, Explore Park is another outstanding alternative for camping along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The park is home to heaven Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in the area and offers numerous types of camping sites and cabins.
Even more down the Parkway, the Rocky Knob Camping site beckons travelers with its remote spots and access to treking routes resulting in scenic vistas. Campers can savor starlit nights, picturesque walkings, and the relaxing sounds of mountain streams, making it an idyllic getaway for nature enthusiasts and outside enthusiasts alike.
Blue Ridge Parkway in VBR >
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Camping at Smith Mountain Lake
Smith Mountain Lake, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a gorgeous place for campers and water enthusiasts. Camping here suggests getting up to the
mild lapping of waves and spectacular lakefront sunrises. If you seek a family-friendly atmosphere, you’ll find comfortable websites at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, with rich forest environments and access to the lake for swimming and boating. Whether you choose fishing, treking, or just unwinding by the campfire under the starlit sky, Smith Mountain Lake’s camping sites provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience.
Camping at Smith Mountain Lake >
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Camping in the Jefferson National Forest
For those seeking a genuinely immersive outdoor experience, camping in the Jefferson National Forest is a must. Douthat State Park, nestled within the forest, provides well-kept camping areas with access to a beautiful lake for swimming and fishing.
Whether you look for treking, birdwatching, or simply the soothing noises of a bubbling stream, camping in the Jefferson National Park is an entrance to the natural wonders of Virginia’s rugged surface.
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Camping on the Upper James River Water Trail
Camping on the Upper James River Water Path distinctively combines paddling and outdoor camping in the attractive Blue Ridge Mountains. Twin River Outfitters lies in the Town of Buchanan in Botetourt County and provides several camping areas and directed expeditions for over night adventures on the river.
Canoeing or kayaking along the James River by day and camping under the canopy of stars at night is an ideal method to experience the area’s natural appeal.
James River Outdoor Camping & Campgrounds >
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Outdoor camping on the Appalachian Trail
Roanoke is the biggest city along the renowned Appalachian Trail, and the area features many stunning tops and views, including McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, and Tinker Cliffs.
Planning an overnight hike and camping at one of the designated campsites or shelters along the path is an amazing method to experience the outdoors in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
The following is a list of campsites and shelters along the Appalachian Trail in the area.
- War Spur Shelter
- Laurel Creek Shelter
- Sarver Hollow Shelter
- Niday Shelter
- Pickle Branch Shelter
- John’s Spring Shelter
- Catawba Mountain Shelter
- Campbell Shelter
- Lamberts Meadow Shelter
- Fullhardt Knob Shelter
- Wilson Creek Shelter
Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club Shelter Details >
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Camping at Philpott Lake
Philpott Lake is a surprise gem of picturesque appeal in Franklin County. With lovely views of heaven Ridge Mountains, this pristine location offers a relaxing retreat for camping on the water.
Establish your campsite under a canopy of trees, delight in the tranquil waters, and start experiences like treking, fishing, and birdwatching.
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Outdoor Camping Tips and Fundamentals
Before you set off on your camping experience, here are a few friendly pointers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Reservations: If you prepare to camp in a popular campground, making early bookings is a great idea, particularly during peak summer season and fall seasons.
Gear: Guarantee you have all the required camping equipment, consisting of a sturdy camping tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and clothes ideal for the season.
Security: Familiarize yourself with the regional wildlife and security preventative measures. Keep supermarket properly to avoid encounters with wildlife, and constantly follow the Leave No Trace concepts to safeguard the environment.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your journey, as mountain weather can be unforeseeable. Pack accordingly and be gotten ready for sudden changes.
Leave No Trace: Regard the natural surroundings by leaving it as you found it. Dispose of garbage properly, and bear in mind fire restrictions.
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Header picture thanks to Matt Ross – Franklin County Parks & Leisure
Explore camping areas near Roanoke, VA! Select from cozy cabins, recreational vehicle sites, and conventional camping tent outdoor camping.