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Jefferson National Forest

The best camping in Jefferson National Forest, VA

98% (27)

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

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Stories from the community

Jennifer

4 days ago

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bluestone Camp & Retreat

Mark is a great host and communicator. He gave us clear directions on what roads are best for pulling a trailer. Our rv site was awesome as we were the only people staying here at the time. The sky was clear for amazing star gazing and this location is about an hour from New River Gorge National Park. T-Mobile home internet was “weak”, about 25 Mbps - but enough to stream a tv show. Verizon cell was about 2 bars and T-Mobile cell was 1 bar. One thing to consider when staying here is the road in is very steep - about 14-16% grade, so if you have more trailer than truck, you may burn up your transmission/brakes. We would definitely stay here again!

Hannah

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

This yurt is great! It was super clean, the decorations were beautiful, and everything was really easy to use (fireplace, hot tub). We are looking forward to coming back!

Kevin

1 week ago

35 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Drifter Ridge

Had a great experience, not far away from West Jefferson or Gratsin Highlands State Park (Virginia). Host was personable and very accommodating. Would definitely recommend staying here. Also has a cabin coming soon on the same property as the camper site. The neighborhood cows were respectful of the morning and didn't start talking until they saw people.

Jordan

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp The New River, Blacksburg, VA

This was a great spot to set up for the weekend. Ample, flat space. The stand up bar was extremely useful and well thought out. The fire pit was a great size. We let the hosts know ahead of time that we were interested in purchasing firewood and they had it waiting for us, and they covered it from the weather. Port-a-potty close by and it was what you’d expect, well stocked with TP and hand sanitizer. The river view was awesome and there was so much wildlife to see, and we were lucky enough to spot an otter. Recommend! Worth noting: -the drive down to the site is steep and a mix of gravel and pavement and finishing in grass, there is lots of hipcamp signage but heads up -the train tracks are active and close

Alexandria

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to WindSong in the treetops/hot tub

Myself, boyfriend and two pups had the pleasure of staying at the Wind Song yurt this past weekend and it was absolutely amazing. Couldn’t have asked for anything better! The place was stunning, stocked for all needs and a great getaway. Jodee was great at communicating with any questions with incredible timing. I highly recommend checking the place out for a mental check out for the views are spectacular. Thanks for a memorable trip!

Laura

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Country Campground and RV Park

I highly recommend this campground. It was clean, comfortable, well organized, and had a sparkling riverside view. The camp manager and staff were kind and generous when we had a need. I also have to mention...this campground had the cleanest, nicest, warmest, best lit bathrooms I've ever experienced at a campground. :)

Cindy

2 weeks ago

16 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Retreat

Beautiful location! We chose #106 which is very private with a beautiful view. Tony was very responsive when we the firewood location was empty and brought some to our site. We will definitely visit again!

Mandi

3 weeks ago

1 night at Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

We love staying at Mother Earth! The charm and peacefulness transports you to a place of relaxation and rejuvenation

John

3 weeks ago

15 ft pop-up camper

4 nights at Starry Nights New River Gorge

The camp site was in a clearing along woodline in a secluded location. Very accommodating and scenic. I noticed each campsite was similarly situated affording privacy and good separation from the others. It was also extremely clean. The leaves had been blown clear of the path to the outhouse, which was well stocked with tp. The view of the nightsky was as advertised. I highly recommend this campsite for it's ease of access, beautiful location, and seclusion.

Rock fire pit in center near shade tree and picnic tables in Easter egg meadow

Karen

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to 100 Acre Wood

I love the solitude at 100 Acre Wood. You are alone on many acres and we can bring our big old dogs and let them run off lease safely. The site is always clean and the host, David, is always welcoming and makes sure you have what you need.

Zack

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rogue Trout Retreat

Great spot for car camping or tent camping, for my fellow anglers the river has plenty of tiger trout which is a rare catch! Highly recommend

Jody

3 weeks ago

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at 'Possum Creek Ranch

Jeanie's place is now among our favorite Hipcamp spots. The premium site is incredibly well-maintained, private, and overlooks a lovely meadow. Our dog loved being able to explore the sights, sounds, and smells off-leash. Looking forward to our next visit!

Ilya

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at 100 Acre Wood

Absolutely awesome views at this site. David is the best host too!

Linda

3 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secluded Retreat

We enjoyed our weekend camping at Secluded Retreat! It was very peaceful and enjoyed watching the deer come into the field in the evening. Directions were great and easy access to the campsite.

David

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Rivers Edge Trail Camp

Our site had a great view of the river! The site was flat with easy access to power, water, and sewer. Arrival and departure were super easy. If arriving at night keep in mind that the site numbers are on the power posts and might not be within view of your headlights.

Matthew

3 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Rivers Edge Trail Camp

Great views of the New River. Site was clean, level and easily accessible.

Kristen

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Mountaintop Retreat

Stunning location. Great communication. The sunrises and views were phenomenal!

Mitchell

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at 100 Acre Wood

The host where great excellent place to get away will definitely recommend to anyone looking to go I am going again next year I think the best part is you can bring your 4 wheeler or whatever plenty of trails on property

Chris

November 2025

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to 100 Acre Wood

We loved the spot. Great view and very clean camp spot. The host was very friendly too.

Randy and Rebecca

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Bluestone Camp & Retreat

Very peaceful and quiet. Very nice facility and very nice people. Perfect if you just want peace quiet.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(5)

Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground

101mi from Jefferson National Forest · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(4)

Grindstone Campground

39mi from Jefferson National Forest · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Raven Cliff Picnic Shelter and Campground

100%

(3)

Raven Cliff Picnic Shelter and Campground

29mi from Jefferson National Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

The view from Wildcat Mountain Trail. Don't try to hike the whole trail unless you're in pretty darn good physical condition!

100%

(3)

Cave Mountain Lake Group Campground

101mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(2)

Beartree Campground

43mi from Jefferson National Forest · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(2)

Hopper Creek Group Campground

102mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

White Rocks Campground

47mi from Jefferson National Forest · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Comers Rock Recreation Area

32mi from Jefferson National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Hurricane Campground

36mi from Jefferson National Forest · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Raccoon Branch Campground

33mi from Jefferson National Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Caldwell Fields Group Campground

55mi from Jefferson National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(1)

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

79mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Jefferson National Forest

100%

(1)

Steel Bridge Campground

66mi from Jefferson National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Walnut Flats Campground

23mi from Jefferson National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

North Creek Campground

97mi from Jefferson National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Little Fort Campground

193mi from Jefferson National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Fox Creek Horse Campground

37mi from Jefferson National Forest · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Stony Fork Campground

16mi from Jefferson National Forest · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Blue Springs Gap Cabin

32mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

Stony Fork Cabin

16mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

99%

(1083)

35mi from Jefferson National Forest · 7 sites · RVs · 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. These sites are for camper vehicles only. NO TENTS! 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 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 tents are allowed due to lack of toilet facilities. 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

Camp The New River, Blacksburg, VA

99%

(214)

42mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blacksburg, VA

One very large, private site, plenty of room for a large group. All yours, no sharing. Pet friendly! Private porta john, cleaned weekly. No electric or hook ups, Generators welcomed. Amazing tent/ small camper site. Level ground, private boat dock and boat landing! Swimming, fishing, kayaking, floating, canoeing, paddle boarding. Enjoy the beautiful sunrises, sunsets and wildlife. NEW ADDITION-----2 hammock hangers!!! Firewood available for $30. per tractor bucket load, of 1/2 for $20. 15 minutes from Virginia Tech and RU. Great place for a tailgate before a game. Train comes by occasionally, but no whistle, private crossing.

Mountaintop Retreat

97%

(175)

33mi from Jefferson National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jumping Branch, WV

Voted #2 campground in West Virginia by Hipcamp guests!! - Huge Thank You to you guys! Place your booking before 10-31-25 for a free bag of firewood Mushroom Trail featuring full size DoDo birds 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 are 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

The Paisley Farm

100%

(1)

46mi from Jefferson National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Galax, VA

Paisley Farm: A (3 acre) Tranquil Retreat Along Chestnut Creek Welcome to Paisley Farm, a serene getaway less than 1.5 miles from downtown Galax and the scenic New River Trail. Nestled along Chestnut Creek, a beautiful bold waterway that flows into the New River, this property offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Here, you’ll wake up to the sounds of nature, catch glimpses of wildlife in the early morning and evening, and enjoy plenty of space to unwind. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore nearby hiking and biking trails, or experience local flavors, The Paisley Farm is your ideal home base. What We Offer: Marcia’s Place – A beautifully crafted new yurt offering a cozy and comfortable stay. Currently Under Construction The Garden House – A charming retreat surrounded by nature. Creekside Campsites – Three primitive campsites for those who love to sleep under the stars. Explore & Experience: Outdoor Adventures – Hike, bike, or paddle along the New River Trail and surrounding waterways. Local Charm – Discover downtown Galax’s eclectic small shops, restaurants, and the local brewery. If you seek peace and relaxation while staying close to modern conveniences, The Paisley Farm is the perfect escape. Book your stay and experience the best of nature and local charm!

Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

100%

(24)

48mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Fancy Gap, VA

Mother Earth is 3 miles from I-77, exit #8, 3 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The yurt is 15 mins from Mt Airy NC which is a destination for outdoors activities, wineries, breweries, and has a gorgeous downtown area. Fancy Gap is famous for the BRPW, hiking, mountain biking, and all types of outdoor activities. Mother Earth has a walk in shower, soaking tub, bluetooth music, wifi, and a hot tub. a full kitchen and washer and dryer. I provide all your paper products, coffees, creamer, sugar, shower products and more. it’s in a wooded area with nice views and wildlife in abundance. This yurt is comfortable all year long with a minisplit for heat and air conditioning, and a propane fireplace. This yurt has easy access and parking right in front. The deck is gated for toddlers and pets. Check out the secluded porch swing underneath. Our pet fee is an additional $25 left on the counter. Stargazing is at its best here, and lots of back roads to walk and explore. Check out Beamers Knob for a gorgeous long range view, about a mile from the yurt. It’s breathtaking! This yurt also has a generator to keep things going, in case of a power failure due to inclement weather.

100 Acre Wood

100%

(135)

34mi from Jefferson National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Draper, VA

101 Acres of forested land in the Draper, Virginia area with scattered clearings that are connected by over 2 miles of cleared roads throughout the property, which are perfect for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The property includes a very small creek, 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. Each of the 3 sites is hundreds of yards away from each other. Note: there is no bathroom on the premises, however you can book a toilet tent as an extra. 4 Wheel Drive or All wheel drive are helpful during the winter months if there has been a lot of rain or snow/ice. Things to watch out for are deer ticks and poison ivy. Campers are expected to leave the site neat and take all their trash with them. 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. Also, check out the Draper Mountain overlook on Rt 11, just 10 minutes from our HipCamp. 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, Bigfoot sitings 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.

Starry Nights New River Gorge

100%

(166)

36mi from Jefferson National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hinton, WV

Best Dark Sky Hipcamp in the US 2025 Best in West Virginia 2025 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 Southern WV with easy access to a lake, rivers, State Parks, and NRG National Park. 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 fields 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

Beech Grove River Spot

97%

(167)

44mi from Jefferson National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

Secluded Retreat

98%

(80)

47mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hillsville, VA

Private 20 acre parcel away from the hussel and bussel of life. Peaceful setting of all types of wildlife from deer, ground hogs, rabbits, birds and wild flowers. Free firewood Yet close enough to enjoy a drive along the blueridge parkway, Fancy Gap being the halfway point. Exploring Maybry Mills, Bluegrass Museum, Beaver Dam trail, CreekHale-Wilkinson-Carter House and Carroll County Historical Society/Museum. Farmers Market, Carroll County Historical Society, Devils Den, Labor Day and Memorial Day "HUGE" Flea Market so much more to explore. byot....bring your own toilet if tent camping. For any questions please call 863.273.9807

Rogue Trout Retreat

93%

(37)

45mi from Jefferson National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodlawn, VA

Rogue Trout Retreat is a brand new recreation destination, offering ~5 open acres of primitive camping and 700+ feet of private trout fishing that connects to the Crooked Creek Fee Fishing park and Wildlife Reserve. The creek is stocked with Rainbow Trout multiple times throughout the week between the months of April and October. Native and Brown Trout are also very commonly found in these waters. The Wildlife Reserve "next door" offers opportunities for 5 miles of stocked trout fishing, 2 miles of wild trout fishing, 1800+ acres of hunting, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife watching. Nearby you'll find all you need in the way of food, supplies, gas, entertainment, sights, and more in the city of Galax, or town of Hillsville. Don't forget to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway, kayak the New River, bike the New River Trail, pick at the Fiddler's Convention, shop multiple boutiques, antique stores, flea and farmer's markets, and visit plenty more small town events that are sure to bring you back to visit Rogue Trout Retreat very soon!

The Corner at Spencers' Highland

97%

(107)

42mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

Drifter Ridge

100%

(9)

48mi from Jefferson National Forest · 1 site · RV · Lansing, NC

Wake up to rolling hills, open pastures, and the peaceful charm of Ashe County at Drifter Ridge. Our site overlooks a serene, wide-open valley. Surrounded by quiet farmland and tree-lined ridges- it’s the perfect escape for campers looking to reconnect with nature. Ashe County is literally the ‘coolest corner of NC!’ Home to Ashe County Cheese, America’s Christmas Tree capital, and endless outdoor activities like fly fishing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling. Nestled in the quaint town of Lansing, NC, our Hipcamp is just 30 minutes from downtown West Jefferson’s shopping, restaurants, and local breweries, and 25 minutes from the Virginia Creeper bike trail. In 20 minutes, you can be hiking among wild horses at Grayson Highlands State Park, with stunning mountain views. *Exciting things are happening at Drifter Ridge! We’re in the process of building a 600 sq ft. 2BR/1BA Eastern White Pine log home right here on the property. Don’t worry construction will in no way affect the peaceful experience of your stay. We know camping isn’t for everyone or maybe you’d love to have family or friends join you, but they prefer four walls and a cozy bed. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce The Wicked Cozy Cabin coming soon! Stay tuned… we can’t wait to welcome you to a whole new way to enjoy Drifter Ridge.* Ashe County Farmers Market- Held every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM on the Backstreet in West Jefferson. The market runs through November 8th. Lansing Park Farmers Market- Every Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Lansing Creeper Trail in downtown Lansing. We’re also conveniently close to other popular destinations: • Mount Rogers: 1 hour 45 minutes • Mount Jefferson State Park: 30 minutes • Paddy Mountain Park: 30 minutes • Appalachian State University: 1 hour • Virginia Tech: 2 hours • Beech Mountain: 1 hour 30 minutes • Bristol Motor Speedway: 1 hour 10 minutes • North Wilkesboro Speedway: 1 hour 10 minutes The nearest medical facility -30 min. away. The Liar’s Bench,The Molly Chomper, The Log House, Old Orchard General Store, The Squirrel & Nut, Amy Anne Apparel Boutique, and Lost Province are open and welcoming visitors. We deeply appreciate your support! Drifter Ridge is Veteran owned and operated 🇺🇸

The best camping in Jefferson National Forest, VA 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.

98%

27 ratings · 6 reviews

Recommends

· September 2025

Tent ·

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

Great campground and amazing communication from the host.

Triston T.

4 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2025

Steel Bridge Campground

Nice little spot tucked away. Only stayed for one night but enjoyed our time. Nice fire ring to watch the fire with mountain peak in background. Great spot for sky gazing

Autumn D.

4 reviews

Recommends

· October 2020

Beartree Campground

Great Place to Hike and Relax!

Sandra S.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2018

Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground

Quiet beautiful place. Visit in the fall!

Jamie A.

7 years on Hipcamp

August 2017

White Rocks Campground

Great forest camping. Campground nestled among shady old trees. All sites are spacious; some are only tent friendly. Water available, clean bathrooms, flush toilets, pet friendly. Great place for runners, joggers, walkers, just relaxing. Stayed here for 5 nights in a popup camper (8/11-8/15), encountered some rain. Grocery store in New Castle, VA about 30 miles away. I read a report that the campground was overgrown with weeds. I didn't find that to be the case. Also someone mentioned there was a camper in the back of the ground and it looked like a person was living there, well that is the camp host there for the season. Definitely will stay here again.

Marguerite O.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2017

Hurricane Campground

Overall a good campground: clean, remote, near trails and streams and lovely Marion, VA - but the sitemaps don't tell you about the changing topography of the place. We were in site 24, which appeared to be about 50 feet from a toilet/shower - but we got there to learn that we were also about forty feet above the facilities, with a steep incline between us. That makes for a tough nighttime trip, especially if you are challenged by steep trails.