The Blue Ridge Mountains offer thousands of acres of majestic beauty that span multiple states and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Visiting one of the best campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a wonderful way to get back to nature and puts you in the heart of the outdoors and surrounding outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and much more.
Fortunately, there are many campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains, each with their own unique features, amenities, and scenic beauty.
Some of the best campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains are located remotely in national parks, while others are located in smaller state parks or private campgrounds. Some offer just the bare essentials, while others provide full hookups and all of the luxury amenities of a resort.
Prior to moving here to the mountains, we camped as a family, all around the Blue Ridge Mountains in our travel trailer. Camping was just one of the many things that made us fall in love with the area, and decide to make the Waynesville NC area our home.
We know camping, and understand what makes a campground good, and what doesn't.
In this guide, we use our expertise to explore our top picks for the perfect campgrounds to pitch your tent, set up your RV, or cozy up in a rustic mountain cabin. If you bring the marshmallows, we'll grab the firewood!
Best Campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains in National Parks
The National Parks within the Blue Ridge Mountains contain some of the most remarkable national park campgrounds in the United States. These campgrounds offer visitors an unparalleled camping experience, providing breathtaking views, cascading clear waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and easy access to some of the very best hiking trails.
Below, we highlight some of the best campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains that are in national parks.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
In Virginia's stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a renowned destination for those who love adventure and the great outdoors. Encompassing over 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this remarkable park offers a diverse range of natural wonders, wildlife, recreational opportunities, and scenic drives.
Camping is also a very popular activity in Shenandoah National Park, with several campgrounds offering a range of amenities and scenic locations. Whether you prefer backcountry camping or a more developed campground, spending a night under the stars in Shenandoah is a magical experience.
Shenandoah National Park Campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Popular campgrounds in the Shenandoah National Park include:
Big Meadows Campground

Camp site in Big Meadows Campground - Photo by: Andrew Mace
Big Meadows Campground is a scenic and tranquil campground that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park.
Big Meadows Campground is located in the central portion of the Shenandoah National Park, near milepost 51 on Skyline Drive. The campground sits in a peaceful meadow surrounded by forests and mountains.
The campground features nearly 200 campsites, including sites for tents, RVs, and trailers. All campsites are well-maintained and offer various amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restroom facilities with hot showers. Some sites also have electrical hookups. You do have to pay for showers, so bring some quarters.
Big Meadows Campground has a camp store, laundry facility, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the numerous trails that crisscross the park, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. You'll even see lots of wildlife, including deer in the campground almost every day.
There is a dump station for RVs to use, but only one. Given the number of RV sites, this can cause for long waits when leaving, especially on a busy day. There is no cell reception here or wi-fi available at the campsites.
Mathews Arm Campground
Mathews Arm Campground is situated in the northern section of Shenandoah National Park, near milepost 22 on Skyline Drive. This beautiful campground is surrounded by forest and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains as well.
The campground has over 150 campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs. The campsites have picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restroom facilities with running water and flush toilets. However, there are no electrical hookups available at this campground.
Mathews Arm is a more primitive camping facility and offers basic facilities including a camp store and a dump station for RVs and trailers. The bathroom facilities are functional, but very dated when we visited, and no showers. There is no cell phone service available in the campground.
There is access to many nearby hiking trails, and the campground provides easy access to many scenic views. There are even two waterfalls nearby an accessible on the Mathews Arm Trail, however one is a pretty strenuous hike.
Loft Mountain Campground
Loft Mountain Campground in the southern portion of the park and offers a quiet, scenic and relaxing camping experience. The campground is right off Skyline drive, making it very convenient.
There are different campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Individual campsites are spread out, offering a unique sense of privacy and space. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit.
There are no electrical hookups available at Loft Mountain Campground, but there are restrooms with flush toilets and access to potable water. There are showers and laundry facilities as well, but you will need to pay (bring some quarters). The campground also offers a dump station for RVs.
There is no Wi-Fi or cell phone service in this area.
Loft Mountain Campground has numerous trails nearby, including the challenging and rewarding hike to the summit of Loft Mountain. The campground is also close to the Appalachian Trail, which stretches across the eastern United States and provides opportunities for longer backpacking adventures for those interested.
There are also some nearby waterfalls to hike to as well.
The campground is conveniently located near the Loft Mountain Wayside, where visitors can find a nice camp store that offers supplies, groceries, and firewood. Additionally, there is a ranger station nearby, providing information on park activities, trail conditions, and safety guidelines.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, ancient mountains, and historic sites. The park offers many different campgrounds and back-country campsites. Here are our best campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains:
Cades Cove Campground
Situated in the picturesque Cades Cove area, this campground offers a unique camping experience. The campground provides over 150 campsites suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers.
Cades Cove Campground and Cades Cove in general, are well known for their beautiful mountain views, abundant wildlife sightings, and access to the Cades Cove Loop Road, which is popular for biking and wildlife viewing.
The campground offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water. The restrooms are easily accessible regardless of where you campsite is located, the camp store is well stocked and even has delicious hot food. Most importantly, the campground is very clean and very well maintained.
One of our favorites!
Elkmont Campground
Located in the heart of the national park, Elkmont Campground is one of the largest and most popular campgrounds.
The campground offers more than 200 campsites, including tent-only sites and sites for RVs and trailers. The campground is located in a quiet forested setting and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, bathrooms, and drinking water.
Elkmont is known for its historic cabins and proximity to Little River, which offers opportunities for fishing and tubing. There area also lots of trees around and in the campground, offering lots of shade, and a great place to hook-up the hammack.
Given the campground's popularity, it is very difficult to get reservations. We recommend booking reservations at last 6-months in advance.
Smokemont Campground
Located near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Smokemont Campground offers a peaceful camping experience. It features over 140 campsites, including tent and RV sites.
The campground is surrounded by lush forests and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.
It also provides access to hiking trails, including the nearby Bradley Fork Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. A number of nice historic locations are nearby, including Mingus Mill and the Oconaluftee Farm village. Wildlife is prevalent around the campground, including Elk!
Something to be aware of when camping at Smokemont is that there aren't may trees in the campground itself, and the camping area itself, while surrounded by forest, is pretty open. This means you really get no privacy or solitude. You'll be able to see multiple campsites all around yours. Not a bad thing necessarily, but something to be aware of.
Cosby Campground
Situated in the northeastern part of the park, Cosby Campground is a quieter and more secluded camping option in the national park.
The campground offers over 150 campsites suitable for both tents and small RVs. The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and access to the Cosby Nature Trail, as well as the nearby Hen Wallow Falls Trail, which leads to a scenic waterfall.
Amenities at Cosby Campground include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water. Bathrooms do have running water, but no showers, and very limited hot water. Similar to Smokemont, there isn't a great deal of privacy at this campground, however it's not as busy as some of the others.
Cataloochee Valley Campground
Cataloochee Valley Campground offers a unique camping experience in a very historic and scenic area of the national park. The campground provides approximately 27 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs and offers a more rustic camping experience with very limited amenities.
Being a much smaller campground than others in the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this campground offers a more intimate and and remote experience.
The campsites have picnic tables and fire rings, but there are no hookups or showers available. The campground does provide access to flush toilets and drinking water.
You'll find the campground to be very quiet and very dark in the evenings. Cataloochee Valley is also full of wildlife, an you'll often see turkeys and even Elk in the campground itself!
Deep Creek Campground
Located just outside of Bryson City NC, Deep Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities. The campground provides over 90 campsites suitable for tents and RVs, and also offers a number of cabins for rent as well.
The campground is well known for its access to the popular and beautiful Deep Creek, where visitors can enjoy tubing, hiking, and waterfall exploration. Amenities at Deep Creek Campground include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.
Due to being so close to Deep Creek, and it being a prime tubing destination in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Deep Creek is one of the best campgrounds for families, with lots to do immediately around the campground. Additionally, Bryson City is only minutes away, and provides restaurants, shopping and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
Big Creek Campground
Big Creek Campground is located in a remote area of the park, near the North Carolina-Tennessee border and offers a small, private, and secluded creekside camping experience.
The campground features 12 campsites that are suitable for tents only. There is a separate area for RVs, although there is an RV facility nearby.
Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms with vault toilets. There are no showers available at this campground.
The great thing about this campground, other than it being small and pretty private, is that it's very close to a number of great hiking trails, and just a short hike from one of the most popular swimming holes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Midnight Hole. Be sure to hike up the extra 1/4 mile to Mouse Creek Falls too.
The Best Blue Ridge Parkway Campgrounds
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic highway that stretches through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the parkway, there are numerous campgrounds where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Some of the best campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway are:
Julian Price Park Campground
Julian Price Park Campground is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and located in Julian Price Memorial Park. The campground offers over 120 well-maintained campsites for tents and RVs.
The campground provides picturesque views of Price Lake and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Nearby, the charming town of Blowing Rock provides additional amenities and attractions, including shops, restaurants, and the stunning Grandfather Mountain. Just a little further is the city of Boone NC for more restaurant options, and the amenities of a city.
The campground is clean and well kept, and provides bathrooms with showers. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to potable water. There is no cell service or wi-fi, so come prepared.
The campground stays very busy, so make reservations early.
Rocky Knob Campground
Rocky Knob Campground near Floyd Virginia is a scenic campground located on the Blue Ridge Parkway and situated within Rocky Knob Recreation Area in Virginia. The campground offers a tranquil and nature-focused camping experience.
With around 81 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, visitors can enjoy the peace of the surrounding forest and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The campground provides amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities with running water.
While there are no electrical hookups available, the campground offers a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park and surrounding mountains.
Rocky Knob Campground serves as a great starting point for exploring the recreational activities in the area. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes, go fishing in the nearby streams, or take in the panoramic vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The campground is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot deer, songbirds, and other native species.
Peaks of Otter Campground
Peaks of Otter Campground is a charming campground located in the Peaks of Otter area of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The park provides a great camping experience with its lovely surroundings and breathtaking views.
Included are a variety of campsites suitable for tents and RVs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and pristine Abbott Lake.
The campground offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities with running water. There are no electrical hookups available, no cell phone service, and no wi-fi.
Top State Park Campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains
State park campgrounds are real hidden gems, offering mind-blowing views, wildlife galore, and some of the nicest remote camping options you'll find.
From the stunning Roan Mountain State Park to to the wild high elevation wonders of Mount Mitchell State Park, we're uncover the coolest camping spots that will leave you itching for an adventure.
Let's just in and explore our best picks for state park campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Roan Mountain State Park, Tennessee
Roan Mountain State Park is 2000 acres of beautiful hardwood trees located in Carter County, Tennessee. The campground is easily accessed off Interstate 26, located on about 60 acres within the park.
The campground has 30 cabins, each having a front porch with rocking chairs to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Cabins also have electricity(AC/heat) and a wood-burning stove. The campground also has 106 sites for camping, 20 of them for tent camping. Each site comes with grills and picnic tables with bathhouses close by.
With a campground store on site, you can conveniently pick up camping supplies and firewood. They have a dump station available to registered visitors as well.
While staying on the campground you can enjoy the surrounding areas that include Roan Mountain as well as 12 miles of hiking trails that rate easy to strenuous, one being just over 2 miles taking you to the top of Roan Mountain. If you enjoy biking there are 2.25 miles of biking trails.
If that isn’t enough to fill your day you can pick up a fishing rod and fish in the Doe River as well as other streams.
If you enjoy flowers, about three miles from the campground inside the park is the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Gardens, they cover 600 acres and bloom between mid to late June each year.
Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia

Photo by: Making Memories Photography
Grayson Hills State Park, situated off U.S. Highway 58, approximately 25 miles to the west of Independence Virginia, offers two campgrounds for tent, RV, and horse campers. The campgrounds and visitor’s center sit at an elevation of 4,953 feet.
The Hickory Ridge Campground comprises 65 forested sites for tents and RVs, four yurts, and a group tent site. While Chestnut Hollow Horse Camp boasts 24 sites for horse campers.
Picnic tables and fire pits come at every campsite. Electrical and water hookups are available for RV and horse sites, while horse sites also offer stable access. The facilities include bathhouses with showers, drinking water, a visitor center, a playground, picnic areas, and a small store.
The park's amphitheater features nature and outdoor programs. Pets are allowed in the park but there is a small fee. They also have a dump station available to registered visitors.
Recreational activities are offered by the park for visitors, including hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, and picnicking. The park's trails are ideal for hiking, with over 25 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous.
The park is known for its wild ponies, which are often seen on the trails and in the open meadows, especially on Wilburn Ridge. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park's streams and ponds, which are stocked with trout.
The surrounding area offers many attractions as well. Visitors can take scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Virginia Creeper Trail. They can also explore the towns of Marion and Abingdon, which have historic downtown districts.
Black Mountain Campground, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina
Black Mountain Campground is in the heart of Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy a quiet escape from everyday life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the great outdoors.
The primitive campground has 37 primitive campsites with 3 campsites with electric hookups, with six group sites. All of the sites have a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground is open from April to October. There are several amenities available, including restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station. Additionally, visitors can purchase firewood and ice from the small supply store.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are several trails in the area, including a stroll on Devil’s Den Trail to Mount Mitchell trail that offer beautiful views as well hike to a waterfall on the 0.25-mile trail to Setrock Creek Falls. You can find this trail just past the group campground gate.
Visitors can also enjoy trout fishing in the nearby streams and rivers, this is catch-and-release fishing while using artificial bait and single hooks. Mountain bikers can explore the Briar Bottom Bicycle trail, 1.2 miles at the entrance to the campground.
Mount Mitchell State Park is a short drive away and offers visitors the chance to do more hiking. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which is also nearby, is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views. Asheville is also within driving distance and offers visitors a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries to explore.
Lake James State Park, North Carolina

Photo by: Todd Money
Lake James State Park in North Carolina is about 7 miles off I-40 and close to both Marion and Morganton NC. The park has 6,510 acres and offers three separate campgrounds: Catawba River Area, Paddy's Creek Area, and Appalachian Area. Each campground has its unique features and amenities to offer campers.
The Catawba River Area campground is located on the western edge of the park. It offers 20 campsites for tent campers. Each campsite is 150-300 yards from the parking lot, so it is recommended that campers pack lightly. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shared restroom facilities with hot showers..
The Paddy's Creek Area campground is situated on the eastern shore of Lake James. It has 33 campsites and 4 group campsites. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shared restroom facilities with hot showers. It has a beachfront on the lake for visitors to enjoy swimming and other water activities.
This campground is close to the hiking trails and provides beautiful views of the lake.
The Long Arm Peninsula campground is located on the southern end of Lake James and is the most primitive of the three campgrounds. It offers 22 primitive campsites, which are only accessible for paddle-in camping, accessible only by boat.
There is no running water, campers must bring their own water for drinking and other needs. There are toilet facilities located throughout the camping area.
Linville Falls State Park, North Carolina
Linville Falls Campground is located in western North Carolina, in the Pisgah National Forest, it is located just off Highway 221 and Highway 183. While some of the roads leading to the campground are narrow and winding, the campground is well-marked and easy to find with GPS directions.
Linville Falls Campground offers a stunning natural setting of lush pine trees for camping and outdoor recreation. The campground boasts 39 campsites you can reserve in advance and 25 campsites available on a first come first serve. Each has a picnic table and a fire ring.
There are no showers, and no electric, water, or sewer hookups are available. There is a dump station available seasonally.
One of the main attractions of Linville Falls Campground is its proximity to Linville Falls, a gorgeous waterfall. The falls feature several different viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the cascading water. Hiking trails in the area also provide opportunities for more adventurous visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Other attractions in the area include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, and the town of Boone, NC.
Stone Mountain State Park, Roaring Gap, NC

Photo by: Making Memories Photography
The park entrance is located off of John P. Frank Parkway (Highway 18) in Roaring Gap, NC. As you follow the park road, you will come across signage indicating the way to the campground.
The campground at Stone Mountain State Park offers amenities for campers with over 90 campsites, including sites for tents and RVs. The sites are spacious and well-maintained. Some sites have electric hookups available.
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring. Restroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets are conveniently located within the campground. There is also a dump station available for RVs.
In addition to the campground, Stone Mountain State Park offers many recreational activities such as hiking trails with beautiful waterfalls, fishing in Stone Mountain Lake or the park's streams, rock climbing, picnics, and horseback riding.
Privately Owned Campgrounds
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Luray, Virginia
The campground itself is situated on 73 acres of wooded land, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for camping and outdoor adventures. There are a variety of campsites available for tents and RVs, ranging from primitive sites with no hookups to full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections.
Additionally, there are cabins for rent, offering a comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional camping. Pet-friendly rentals are available.
One of the main attractions of the park is its water park, which includes a large swimming pool, multiple water slides, and a splash pad. Other activities found on the campground include an arcade, pedal boats, mini golf, an outdoor movie theater, and a jumping pillow. It also has a camp store stocked with camping essentials and snacks.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the park offers hiking trails and fishing ponds. There is also a playground, basketball, and volleyball courts as well.
Shenandoah Valley Campground - Verona,Virginia
Shenandoah Valley Campground is located in Verona, Virginia. It is situated in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.
The campground offers a variety of accommodations, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The RV sites are equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity. The tent sites are located in wooded areas and offer a more primitive camping experience.
The cabins offer all the comforts of home, including air conditioning, heat, and a kitchenette.
There is a swimming pool, hot tubs, playground, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a game room. You will also find a camp store that sells snacks, camping supplies, and firewood as well as a cafe & pizza shop.
The Shenandoah Valley Campground is located near many attractions and outdoor activities. The nearby Shenandoah National Park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. The historic town of Staunton is also a short drive away, with its downtown area, restaurants, and shops. Other things around the area are caverns and museums.
Moonshine Creek Campground - Sylva NC
Moonshine Creek Campground is situated just outside of Waynesville NC. This beautiful campground has a rushing stream throughout the campground and is surrounded by beautiful forest. Before we moved to Waynesville, we RV camped in the area often, and Moonshine Creek was our favorite place.
Amenities offered include tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups plus picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, a camp store, and laundry facilities. This campground is meant as a low-impact campground so that visitors may enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature.
There is nearby river rafting, tubing, golf, fishing, and antique shopping, and about 2 ½ miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Towns close by are Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, and Asheville is only about 40 minutes away.
Up the Creek RV Camp - Pigeon Forge TN
Up the Creek RV Camp is a charming and scenic campground located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Located in the middle of the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, this campground offers a real mountain retreat.
The campground features a variety of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors. RV sites are available with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, allowing campers to easily settle in and make the most of their camping experience.
Additionally, the sites are spacious and well-maintained, providing ample room for RVs of all sizes.
The campground is right next to a beautiful creek, which adds to the ambiance while camping. Visitors can relax by the creek, enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water, or even try their hand at fishing. The camp also offers hiking trails nearby, allowing guests to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
For those seeking entertainment and activities, Up the Creek RV Camp doesn't disappoint. The campground features a swimming pool, providing a refreshing way to cool off during the warmer months. There is also a playground area for children, ensuring that the whole family can have fun and create lasting memories.
Pride RV Resort and Family Campground
Pride RV Resort and Family Campground is a premier camping destination located in Maggie Valley NC. Located in the the majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, this resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun.
The campground provides a range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests of all ages. RV sites are available with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, accommodating RVs of various sizes. The sites are well-maintained and spacious, providing ample room for visitors to set up camp and enjoy their stay.
One of the highlights of Pride RV Resort and Family Campground is its commitment to providing entertainment and activities for the whole family. The resort features a swimming pool, allowing guests to take a refreshing dip and cool off on hot summer days.
There is also a playground area where children can let their imaginations run wild and have fun. The resort also offers a variety of recreational facilities, including basketball and volleyball courts, ensuring that guests of all ages can engage in outdoor sports and games.
There are hiking trails nearby, providing opportunities for campers to explore the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Additionally, the campground is close to several outdoor attractions, such as fishing spots and waterfalls, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural splendor.
Maggie Valley itself offers a charming small-town atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Guests can explore the local attractions, take in the breathtaking mountain views, or indulge in the region's renowned southern cuisine.