Best Camping in and near Hungry Mother State Park

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Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.

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Stay at a public campground in Hungry Mother State Park

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Hungry Mother Campground

51 sites · RVs, Tents In Hungry Mother State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Hungry Mother State Park

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Refugio Entre Pinos

2 sites · RVs38 acres · Marion, VA

Originally homesteaded and farmed by settlers in the late 1800s/early 1900s, this property is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can still view remains of the old stone wall the original settlers built by hand on the edges of the property! The Blue Ridge, part of the Appalachian range, was created by the uplifting of the Earth's tectonic plates 1.1 billion to 250 million years ago, making them the 2nd oldest Mountain Range in the world! You will also be able to view huge growths of Mountain Laurel growing in the Pines and maybe catch it in full bloom. The White Pines were planted over 30 years ago. We are 5 miles from Marion, VA: home of The Lincoln Theatre and Emory-Henry Medical College, and a small community hospital. Also close to Hungry Mother State Park (hiking, swimming, paddling, and fishing), Mt Rogers Recreational Area (where the highest peak in Virginia can be found!), George Washington-Thomas Jefferson National Forests, Grayson Highland State Park (where you can view wild ponies!), the Back of the Dragon (motorcyclists' dream ride on Rt. 16), the Appalachian Trail (accessible just 2 miles away!), The Virginia Creeper Trail, The Crooked Road Music Trail, Bristol Motor Speedway, the Carter Family Fold, Abingdon, VA (Barter Theatre), and Bristol VA/Bristol TN. We are also close to mountain stream fishing, small lake fishing, swimming area & beach (In Hungry Mother SP), wildlife management areas & miles of trails in different parks that offer tons of natural amenities and outdoor opportunities. You will be close enough for day trips to Burke's Garden, VA, Blacksburg/Christiansburg/Roanoke area, Hillsville, Floyd, Independence, Galax, Mouth of Wilson, or the Sparta area of North Carolina. Learn more about this land: Recent upgrade: 50 Amp electrical service, as well as 30 Amp and 120 Volt power! This is a FULL HOOK-UP, VERY EASY PULL THROUGH SITE!-WATER, SEWAGE, AND 50/30amp/120 volt ELECTRICITY. EASY PULL THRU IN/OUT! Water is filtered well-water; potable and what we drink but you may wish to have your own bottle water for food/drinking use. CLOSE TO HUNGRY MOTHER STATE PARK, GRAYSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK, JEFFERSON NATIONAL FOREST, MOUNT ROGERS RECREATIONAL AREA, THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL, THE TRANSVIRGINIA BICYCLE ROUTE, AND THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL! Convenient to I-81 and Route 16- Back of the Dragon. We just added a new driveway connection to make it even easier to pull back onto the road! This area has a very different climate than many other parts of Virginia. We are located in a Köppen Climate Classification Zone Cfb, which is a Temperate Oceanic Climate (or sometimes called Marine West Coast Climate). Yes, the Southwest Mountains of VA have a maritime climate! Think Coastal Alaska, Pacific Northwest, or British Columbia to get an idea of our climate. All of which means our summers are cooler (average of 83 in August) with low humidity, and our winters are milder. So this is a great place to escape the hot humid Virginia summers! We experience four true seasons, and the colors in the fall season are some of prettiest on the East Coast and perfect for leaf peeping! We have deer, wild turkey, bear, chipmunks, raccoons, wild rabbits, Whip-poor-wills, and opossums on the property. Plus, the fireflies at night can be beautiful! Plus, we've yet to see a mosquito! You will be the only camper on the property, my RV is on site and is used as guest quarters when I have company, but this is rare. There is no cell phone coverage and limited strength wifi, so unplug and relax! The Camping Site is part of our mountainside property located in Long Hollow and sits on the edge of 7 acres of pasture, which leads to 7 acres of White Pine Forest you are welcome to use for walking, wildlife viewing, dog walking, etc.. It is conveniently located less than 2/10s a mile from Rt. 16, and 5 miles from I-81. Our neighbors are quiet but you may hear their donkey braying or chickens clucking. We ask that you do not disturb the neighbors or interact in any way with their animals. There is a Firepit and Picnic Table for your use. I try to keep a supply of firewood on hand which you are welcome to use, but if I run out you may have to get some wood elsewhere. You can scavenge fallen wood to burn.....

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Beech Grove River Spot

3 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Damascus, VA

In addition to using this land as our camping/fishing get-a-way, it is also used for hay! Our 5th generation farm and home are just a few miles away, where we raise sheep, cattle, goats and chickens. Learn more about this land:Spend the night along the river in a 14 acre field. We have a picnic table, fire pit and grill in place! This site is easily accessible and along a road. The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are a few miles away in Damascus, Va, where you can bike, hike, shop or eat. Just a 45 minute drive away is Grayson Highlands, where you can hike and see the wild ponies! Abingdon, VA is 20 minutes away. Hang out around a fire, fish (if you have your fishing license), or just relax by the river! We are excited to share our favorite camping spot. We live just a few miles away on our farm and are happy to help in any way we can. Happy Camping!

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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!

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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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Tri Mountain View

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Shady Valley, TN

Tri Mountain View Campground is located in the Northeast corner of Tennessee in the town of Shady Valley. With an elevation of 2,800 feet, Shady Valley is the second highest town in Tennessee. It is just 26 miles from the Bristol Raceway and the Bristol Caverns. It is just a 15 minute drive to Backbone rock and a short drive to the Appalachian Trail. The property was a Dairy Farm and went out of business in the late 90’s and since then there has been over 3,000 trees planted. Some of these trees include the rare Butternut and Hazelnut, but mostly White Pine, Walnut and Oaks. The property has approximately 1,000 feet of fishing on Beaver dam creek, so we recommend bringing waders. There is also a shower house, washer and dryer. https://trimountainview.com/ trimountainview.com

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Secluded Farm Camp near Damascus VA

3 sites · RVs8 acres · Glade Spring, VA

A beautiful family operated farm including beef cattle, hay, and soon to be corn. Don’t stay too long or we will put you to work. ;p Enjoy a walking path down to a creek where you can lounge in a cool, tree covered area. The campsite is nestled among a 100 acre farm and the view of fields and mountains never gets old.

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Blue Ridge Berries

6 sites · RVs, Tents128 acres · Rural Retreat, VA

Located conveniently near Hungry Mother State Park and the Appalachian Trail. Makes this farm a perfect location to set up Camp. Instead of camping in a glorified parking lot, immerse yourself in true nature, with over 128 acres of private land to explore. Miles of hiking and riding throughout the property. Great fishing streams and springs inside the property. Wildlife galore with bears, bobcats, deers, goats, sheep, turtles and much more. You Pick em Berries available in summer.

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Rainbow Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Saltville, VA

Beautiful Mountain Retreat next to Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area which offers over 25,000 acres to enjoy. Laurel Bed Lake is on top of the mountain and Big Tumbling Creek is across the road from campground. Premier trout fishing available year round. Big Tumbling Creek is stocked regularly year round with trout by the Vdgif.

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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

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.

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'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

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Ted's Wildlife Habitat

6 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Tannersville, VA

Once a dairy farm for over 200 years, we acquired the property 16 years ago and immediately started on the task of reverting the property back to it's pre dairy farm state. Working with the Forestry department and other agencies, we have reforested over 30 acres with over 6,000 trees. We have also created a wildlife habitat ( Wildlife corridor) which has succeeded in bringing back species of birds that have long been gone from the valley. Additionally, the pond in the back of the property was dying, now it is thriving! No logging on this property since 1964 and we plan to keep it that way. Just today, there were a bunch of wild turkeys in the front field which is now encircled with chinquapins. We are happy to announce that starting in the Fall, we begin the process of converting the final 9 acres of hay into wild flower fields. This has been in the works for years and we are so excited that it is finally happening! Learn more about this land: Allen has carved out some beautiful sites for you to choose from with awesome views of the western Virginia mountains. Looking for privacy? You've got it here. You get away for privacy, not crowds. Choose your own special piece of paradise. The property has multiple fields, the side of a forest covered mountain, and sites along the creek. We back up to Jefferson National Forest. This property is really more for the tent camper that does not need a lot of amenities. If you have a small RV ( like a tear drop) or vehicle you can sleep in, we do have flat fields that can accommodate you. Note, there is no water or electrical hookup. We have a nice pond in the back of the property located just before the mountain starts. We are more than happy to hike up the "hill" with you and show you some tent sites with spectacular views. Great for bird watchers and bikers alike!

The best camping near Hungry Mother State Park guide

Overview

About

If the East Shore is too far to drive, Hungry Mother State Park is inland Virginia’s next-best-thing to a beach break. Sink your toes into the sand at the lake beach, cool off from the summer sun with a swim, or take to the water to boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Bass, crappie, and catfish are all on the menu for anglers, so work up an appetite hiking and biking along 17 miles of trails, then cook up the day’s catch on the campfire. Campers can choose from cozy cabins, glamping yurts, and three wooded campgrounds.

Notable campgrounds

Best for family campers: Camp Burson is one mile outside the park with 50 RV/tent sites, all with electric hookups and some with full hookups.
Best for tent campers: Royal Oak Campground has 11 tent-only sites plus a glamping yurt.
Best for anglers: Creekside Campground has 19 sites with electric hookups and easy access to the creek

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a cabin or a campsite at Hungry Mother online. Minimum stays are required for cabins in season.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance and must be made at least one day before arrival.
Campsites can book up fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of three months in advance to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Peak season is April through October, and it can get crowded on weekends, especially when the sun is shining. The swimming beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but you can hike and fish at any time, depending on the weather. Camping is possible year-round at Camp Burson, while other sites open in the high season only. Cabins are also year-round.

Know before you go

Hungry Mother State Park is located just north of Marion along Interstate 81.
Day-use parking fees and camping reservation fees are charged at Hungry Mother. State fishing licenses are also required, and there is a daily fee for access to the swimming beach (included for campers).
Facilities include a visitor center, gift shop, restaurant, swimming beach, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Paddleboats, kayaks, and other watercraft are available for rent in season. Swimming is allowed only in designated areas.