Camping
Camping is one way visitors traveling through the Blue Ridge Parkway can spend the night under the stars in one of America’s most beautiful natural settings.
Tranquil and scenic, most campgrounds offer ready access to miles of hiking trails for those who want to explore on foot. Be sure to ask about Ranger talks and campfire programs that are offered most weekends and occasionally during the week. Most campgrounds are at elevations of more than 2,500 feet, which means temperatures are usually cooler than in the surrounding area. Even in summer a sweater can come in handy.
The Parkway’s nine campgrounds were built years ago and do not offer hookups, but most have at least some sites that will accommodate sizeable recreational vehicles, and all offer restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables and grills. Showers are available at Mt. Pisgah campground.
Campgrounds are open May through October, with a per-night charge. Reservations may be made for some sites at the Peaks of Otter, Rocky Knob, Doughton Park, Julian Price Park, Linville Falls, Crabtree Falls (will be added to the reservation system in 2013), and Mt. Pisgah campgrounds. All other campgrounds and sites are first come, first served. To make a reservation, visit www.recreation.gov or call toll-free 877.444.6777. As a general rule, demand is higher on weekends and holidays.
Group camping is available only at Linville Falls Campground. Call 828.765.6082 for more information. In addition, limited backcountry camping is available via permit at Basin Cove in Doughton Park 336.372.8568 and Rock Castle Gorge 540.745.9661. Camping outside of designated campgrounds (or without a permit at backcountry sites) is prohibited.
- Explore a listing of opening and closing dates for Parkway campgrounds, visitor centers and facilities
- Download the Blue Ridge Parkway Camping Brochure
Developed Sites on the Parkway
The nine developed sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway provide food, lodging, information, restrooms, hiking and interpretation. Campgrounds are open from May to November with fees charged on a per night basis, which includes two adults over age 18. Children accompanied by an adult camp free. Drinking water, RV dump stations and restrooms are provided. None of the campgrounds are equipped with electrical hook-ups or laundry services. Winter camping is occasionally available. Inquire in advance, as facilities are limited.
Related Information
- Otter Creek Campground - MP 60.8
- Peaks of Otter Campground - MP 85.6
- Roanoke Mountain Campground - MP 120.4
- Rocky Knob Campground - MP 161.1
- Doughton Park Campground - MP 239.2
- Price Park Campground - MP 296.9
- Linville Falls Campground - MP 316.4
- Crabtree Falls Campground - MP 339.5
- Mount Pisgah - MP 408.6
At the lowest elevation along the Parkway, visitors can hike, camp, fish, have a picnic, and see restored Battery Creek Lock from the Kanawha Canal.
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