Top Spots for Blue Ridge Camping Adventures
Mar 12 2024
Explore the top camping spots in the Blue Ridge. This guide features parkway campgrounds, backcountry sites, and options for group or private camping. Whether you’re a tent camper or an RV enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect location for your next adventure in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.
Campground Essentials Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Parkway Campgrounds Overview
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers numerous campgrounds equipped with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water, making them suitable for all types of campers. One standout is Julian Price Park Campground, with 190 campsites, including 90 for tents, and canoe rentals on Price Lake.
Most campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though reservations can be made up to six months ahead. However, potable water availability varies, so it’s important to check before your trip.
Whether in a tent or RV, these campgrounds are perfectly located for easy access to hiking, scenic views, and other outdoor activities.
A True Wilderness Experience
Backcountry Camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains
For adventurers looking for a more rugged escape, backcountry camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains offers just that. With only three designated sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway—Rock Castle Gorge, Basin Cove, and Mount Pisgah—these spots ensure a peaceful, untouched experience while helping preserve the environment. Permits are required to manage camper numbers and protect these pristine locations.
Camping is restricted to designated areas, and permits are mandatory. With the right preparation, backcountry camping provides a rare and serene connection to nature.
Unwind in Nature's Best Spots
Private Campgrounds Near Blue Ridge Parkway
For those looking for additional amenities and a more private experience, the privately owned campgrounds near the Blue Ridge Parkway are an excellent choice. These campgrounds offer a wide variety of facilities, including complete RV hookups with power and plumbing, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
One notable private campground is Toccoa Valley Campground, known for its clean and uncrowded facilities. It also owns all the land for river launch and disembarkation, enhancing the tubing experience for visitors.
Campers can contact the campground directly via telephone or their website to determine availability and make reservations, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
Top Tent Camping Getaways
Popular Destinations for Tent Camping
Tent camping along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a serene retreat amidst stunning natural landscapes. A favorite spot is the Mount Pisgah Campground at milepost 408.8, featuring 125 campsites, with 64 reserved for tent campers. This location offers breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails.
Another prime destination is Linville Falls Campground, home to 64 sites, including 14 for tents. Located near the stunning Linville Gorge, this area provides an ideal mix of adventure and tranquility.
Crabtree Falls Campground boasts 81 campsites and a trail leading to a picturesque 70-foot waterfall, perfect for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities
Hiking trails are a major attraction for campers along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Accessible from various campgrounds, these trails offer a range of experiences, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. Popular activities include fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife watching, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Asheville East KOA is a great example, featuring amenities like two fishing lakes and a swimming pool, providing both relaxation and adventure opportunities. River activities such as fishing and tubing are also popular at many campgrounds, adding to the diverse range of outdoor activities available.
The variety of outdoor recreation options allows campers to tailor their experience to their interests, ensuring each trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains is unique and enjoyable.
Captivating Nature & Adventure
State Parks and Recreational Areas in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Blue Ridge state parks combine stunning natural beauty with numerous recreational opportunities. First Landing State Park, adjacent to Virginia Beach, is a popular choice for families, offering camping facilities and educational programs. For a more mountainous adventure, Amicalola Falls State Park boasts the tallest waterfall in the Southeast and a range of camping options, including sites with electrical hookups.
Whether you're after scenic hikes, tranquil picnics, or a peaceful retreat in nature, these parks promise an unforgettable outdoor experience.