The swimming area has asnack bar and gift shop. ( Claytor Lake Underwater Webcam feed. As those roads developed, the trail became less and less appealing for nature lovers to walk. Soar through the trees on the Treetop Quest aerial adventure course, featuring zip-lines and challenge obstacles for ages four and up. It'sgreat for seasoned and novice runners. No linens are provided. From the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Caldwell Fields Group Campground - US Forest Service Camping is not allowed in the yurt area, only on designated campsites. Packing away the tent for the cold season means that cabin camping opportunities abound. At Base Camp in the parks visitor center, there is a Monacan history exhibit including a replica wigwam as well as other interpretive information when the outdoor exhibit is closed seasonally or because of inclement weather. A third field is available at the site for day-use only. Great spot! Located in the historic Howe House, the visitor center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer season. There are three small boat docks located in the cabin area (between cabins 1 and 2, behind cabin 4 and behind cabin 10) for cabin guests to use free of charge. The park also offers for rent a gazebo, which is popular for weddings. A "Red Balloon" is normal. This is not a picnic shelter. Camping - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) READ MORE:The 7 Best Roanoke Restaurants in Virginias Blue Ridge. Bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. The project moved 170 miles of the AT (the stretch from the Jefferson National Forest) to the Roanoke area. Seasonal living history programs connect you to the past and cover how people once used the area's resources for survival and inspiration. Access these via 7 miles of hiking trails, including Cedar Creek Trail, which leads from the park's Visitor Center under the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. Your #1 Source of Information on U.S. Military Campgrounds. The Dragons Tooth Trail is quite short at just 2.3 miles, and the first two-thirds of it often lull hikers into a comfortable gait. Deer, raccoon, squi FMWR RV Camp has six (6) fully operational sites which includes water, electricity, picnic tables and dump station. Two-day Weekend Package: Two consecutive weekend days' rental, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Linens are not included in the rental package; only chairs and tables are provided. Popular for weddings, it can be rented all day from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Open fires are prohibited from Feb. 15 through April 30 from midnight to 4 p.m. View details here. The Appalachian Trail was meant to stretch the full length of the Appalachian skyline, from the highest peak in the north to the highest peak in the southfrom Mt. Bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. No smoking, cooking or pets, except service animals, are allowed in the yurt. Click here for park fees. The Valley Conservation Council and Rockbridge Area Conservation Council hosted tours, wrote articles, encouraged support and formed the Friends of Natural Bridge. With a Virginia State Park situated along Virginia's second largestlake, the entire family will enjoy pitching the tent or setting up the RV at Smith Mountain Lake. Campground D: Accommodates large RV units up to 40 feet. The gift shop will be open on weekends from November through March. The state will not own the Natural Bridge property until the debt is paid off but took over management of about 1,500 acres here on Sept. 24, 2016. Official websites use .gov A .gov It'sgreat for seasoned and novice runners. Firewood is available for a small fee. Search Campgrounds near Interstate exits along I-81 traveling Southbound in Virginia Horseshoe Bend is a paddle-in campground while the other two are accessible by road. Extra firewood is available for a nominal fee. Click here for this park's master plan. Invasive species harm the lake's native species. Cedar Creek Trail to the Natural Bridge and the Monacan Village is a moderate-rated trail. 3-bedroom wood-frame waterview, 1. Annual parking-launching passports are available by calling 1-800-933-PARK. Podium, tables and chairs are included at no extra charge. Washington to Mt. Roanoke, VA 24019 Be careful crossing. January to the 2nd Weekend of March: 9:00 a.m. to dusk daily, 2nd Weekend of March to Thanksgiving: 10:00 a.m. to dusk 6:00 p.m. daily, Thanksgiving toJanuary: 9:00 a.m. to dusk daily, January to the 2nd Weekend of March: 9:00 a.m. to dusk Friday-Sunday, 2nd Weekend of March to Thanksgiving: 9:00 a.m. to dusk daily, Thanksgiving to January: 9:00 a.m. to dusk Friday-Sunday, The main level to the visitor center and restrooms. 2-bedroom cinderblock waterview two bedrooms, one bathroom, typically sleeps up to four (one full-size bed, two twin-size beds). Cold weather may affect the availability of water - see above. This area is unsuitable for those wanting a private wedding. The day-hike to the summit is 3.9 miles long, which equates to just under 8 miles of hiking on the round-trip route. At nearly 8 miles round-trip, the McAfee Knob hike is long enough that youll feel justified getting French fries and an awesome Roanoke microbrew for lunch. When you reserve the gazebo, we like to make sure that you do not have any surprises on your special day. Learn more about the park's wedding package options. Cabins and Bungalows available. A camping trip to Smith Mountain Lake is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty, adventure, and peacefulness of Virginia's Blue Ridge. The campground at Little Creek are equipped with 45 RV sites complete with power, sewer hookup, cable television hookup and water hookups, picnic t Lunga Park offers beautiful camping year round. All campsites have in-ground grills for cooking and campfires, as well as a picnic table and post for a lantern. ( The 37th state park was dedicated on September 24, 2016, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark in 1988. Paint, glue and glitter cannot be used here. The Friends of Natural Bridge State Parksupport, promoteand protect the park. to conserve the areas you love visiting, E-Bike use on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Explore Park is where adventure begins! Cabin rental and cancelation policies apply. Cabins 1-12: Two-bedroom, one bathroom, water view; cabins 1, 6 and 7 are universally accessible. Evidence of the original sites and logging trails still remain today. This is a day-use facility. Three separate campgrounds - Gala in Eagle Rock, and Horseshoe Bend and Arcadia in Buchanan - are all set with fire rings, tent pads, and picnic tables. With fivestate parks in the surrounding areas, all the fantastic programs, events, activities, facilities, and outdoor amenities of the Virginia State Park program can make for a wonderful way to spend a vacation. Driving distance from New Castle is about 15 miles; estimated time is 30 minutes. No reservation required for the day-use area. Directions: From Staunton, VA: Follow U.S. 250 west to Churchville. Banquet style seating for 72 people (round banquet tables). Gravel picnic pad, two pedestal grills, a campfire fire ring with a metal grill, six picnic tables, and two lantern hangers. Linens are not provided. Claytor Lake State Park. Turn left and follow to SR 617; campground is on right. Several small picnic shelters in the parking area are wheelchair accessible. Camping guests may use the boat launch for up to two boats at no additional charge. A possible shortage of lifeguards before mid-June and after mid-August may result in unguarded swimming. 9. Hike the McAfee Knob trail during the week if at all possible. Maximum of 35 people, 10 tents and 10 vehicles. Camping near Roanoke - Camping locations and spots for Roanoke VA Moving firewood is illegal in some states. There are no sewer hook-ups, but there is a dump station. Map Information, Leave No Trace. The gas dock and gift shop are open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day as well as on Saturday and Sunday from April 1 through Memorial Day and from Labor Day through October. From Covington, VA: Take SR 18 to SR 615. In less than half a mile, the VA-311 will be on the right. Generators are not permitted in the campground. All three ratings categories are measured on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the best.Less than 1 percent of parks or campgrounds receive the coveted 10 / 10 / 10 rating, which indicates superior facilities that are well maintained, clean, well-appointed restrooms and a highly appealing appearance.Campgrounds are inspected annually by . Two-night minimum stay; no weekly requirement. Cabins 13, 14, 15 and 16 are also accessible. Group site area is 125 feet by 60 feet. New exhibits feature lake ecology, fish life and interactive hands-on exhibits. Learn more about this historic structure. Jump right in the water or paddle your way through Virginia's Blue Ridge. Jeep enthusiasts can experience some of the most challenging 4-wheeling in Virginia at nearby Potts Mountain Jeep Road. Attention: Clean plant debris, insects and mollusks (snails) from your boat and accessories before arriving at the park. RV Campgrounds Near Roanoke Virginia | USA Today All others are charged the standard parking fee. Visit this page for details on reservation cancelation and transfer policies. Read More >>>. T-Rex Trail Returns to Explore Park Memorial Day Weekend, Aikido Level 1 at Brambleton Recreation Center, Rec Life Brochure Available with Summer 2023 Programs, Mayflower Hills Disc Golf Course #40 World Ranking by UDisc, Roanoke County Parks, Recreation and Tourism (home page). It is an interactive space with touch screen monitors, an observation beehive and exhibits of wildlife found in the park. Decorations are allowed on the gazebo and poles leading up to the gazebo, but nails, thumbtacks and items that may damage the wood should not be used. No horses, riding trails or stables. 5162 Valleypointe Parkway Here's a playlist of videos on typical cabins and a lodge at the park. This open area campground was originally constructed as a CCC camp. The lodges have a washer and dryer but no phone or TV. At around 8 miles, the Tinker Cliffs Trailis not quite as long as the McAfee Knob day-hike, but the change in elevation (1900 feet) is actually a bit more. Camping | Roanoke County Parks Rec & Tourism, VA George Washington & Jefferson National Forests - North River Campground Parking for two vehicles is allowed for each yurt. Cabin check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is 10 a.m. Cabins have rustic furniture and are climate-controlled (heat and air conditioning). Recycle bins for aluminum and plastic bottles are across from cabin 13 and in other areas of the park. Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Stop inside our visitor center to browse our gift shop featuring artisan crafts and parkway memorabilia. There are 70 campsites at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, including 20 cabins, 26 tent-only sites and 24 sites with standard electric hook-ups. Tables and chairs available (no charge). Lodges have rustic furniture and have heat and air conditioning. 16 Reviews 9.4 Explore Park County Park Roanoke, VA 8.7 Miles S Favorite Add to Trip 21 Reviews 6.5 Peaks of Otter Campground, Blue Ridge Parkway National Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bedford, VA 10.4 Miles E Favorite Add to Trip 4 Reviews 9.3 Roanoke Elks Lodge #197 Members Only +1 Roanoke, VA 10.8 Miles SW Favorite Add to Trip 2 Reviews 6.0 When the beach is unguarded guests may swim at their own risk and swimming fees do not apply. In May 2013, then owner Angelo Puglisi announced plans to sell the Natural Bridge complex by year's end. From Blacksburg, VA: Follow US 460 west for 2.8 miles. Also, in April and late October, the availability of water depends on the weather. The rental season is only during camping season for Campground A (the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day). The area is sparsely wooded and mostly flat. The Cedar Creek Trailgoes under the Natural Bridge to the Monacan Village, Lost River and Lace Falls. United States. Due to the elevation increase and the time required to walk the trail (generally 4-6 hours), the McAfree Knob hike is infamous for weather changes, including temperature drops and rain/snow events. Kitchen: refrigerator, stove, drip coffeemaker, dishes, dishcloth, dishwashing liquid, dish towel, silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans, oven mitt, potholder, microwave oven and toaster. Before then, there's a cancellation fee. Campsites D-27 and D-35 are accessible. 8 photos. Two overnight dock rentals are available at A Dock, the dock to the launch ramp's right. READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Luray VA. McAfee Knob is named after James McAfee, a Scotch-Irish settler in the 1730s, but there were Native Americans settled throughout the area long before then. Three vehicles per cabin. Additional vehicles must be parked in the lot adjacent to the campground contact station or in the Campground D parking lot. Due to a lack of operating funds, the Radford Chamber of Commerce operated the park during the summers of 1949 and 1950. Kitchen: refrigerator, stove, drip coffeemaker, dishes,dishwashing liquid, silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans, microwave oven, toaster and dishwasher. Top camping spots in and near Roanoke, Virginia. Salem, Virginia. State Parks Near Roanoke, VA | America's State Parks The rental season is April 1- Oct. 31. The pier is best accessed from the picnic area restroom parking lot. Licenses may be purchased at the Water's Edge gift shop when it's open or at the park office during the off-season. Twin mattresses are slightly oversized. The marina has an accessible fishing platform. RV Parks & Campgrounds near Roanoke, VA | Outdoorsy Total sites of each type: STD, 64; E/W, 39. Overnight slips are available at the marina for a fee. Accommodations for accessibility can be made upon request with the contact rangers at the Visitor Center. It is an outdoor experience requiring appropriate footwear, physical exertion, and hydration while enjoying the trail. Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge101 Shenandoah Avenue NE Roanoke, VA 24016 (540) 342-6025 (800) 635-5535, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. Camping in Virginia Virginia has such a wonderful variety of landscapes and adventures to discover, you'll never run out of places to explore. Recycle bins for aluminum and plastic bottles are at the entrance to the cabin area and other areas of the park. The RV Camp is located minutes New campground recently built to replace the old campground. Twin mattresses are slightly oversized. The Visitor Center is open daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about theLeave No Traceprinciples ofresponsible environmental stewardship. This content takes priority over any other information provided on this park's webpage. Water and electric hookups except in March and November when there is electricity but no water. Dead and down wood can be gathered on site. ?Yoga Classes offered at Brambleton Recreation Center in July! Camping in Roanoke, VA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2023 | Hipcamp The programs cover wildlife, natural sciences, history, recreation and more. 5162 Valleypointe Parkway They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. 472 acres. There is a nominal fee for a special use permit, and the application can be obtained online or at the park. Visit https://roanokecountyparks.com/293/Summer-Camps to register online! There is a fireplace with gas logs. Within the trail system lies a 5K cross-country trail designed by Boy Scout troop 244. The beach is open and swimming fees apply daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m when lifeguards are on duty. All equipment and vehicles must be kept within the site bordered by 6 x 6-inch timbers. Mouse-over the image for a short text description or, Biking, Boat Launch, Boat Rentals, Canoe Access, Boat Tour, Cabins, Family Lodges, Group Lodging, Yurt **, Camp Store/Gift Shop, Campground, Camping Lodges **, Group Camping, Dump Station, Hiking, Lake/Bay/Ocean/River, Lifeguards, Marina, Motor Boats Permitted, Nature/Cultural Programs, Visitor Center, Parking fee, Picnic Shelter Rentals, Picnic Tables, Pier, Shore, Playgrounds, Recycling, Restrooms, Self (interpretive) Trail, Showers, Snack Bar, Universally Accessible, To learn about park offerings and overnight accommodations, email. Take exit 141 for the VA-419 and turn left (north) onto the VA-419. Pillows are provided. The Virginia State Parks in the region also offer an abundance of hiking trails and spots for picnicking. Campsite List Seasons & Fees Rules & Cancellations Facility Information Each campsite has a picnic table, lantern hanger, and a fire ringwith a metal grill. Call 540-980-1488 or visit its website for details and reservations. Glamping in Roanoke, VA, US: 12 Best Luxury Glamping Sites 2023 - Hipcamp Blue Ridge Campground is approximately 25 miles from the city. This is the largest of the power company's 12 hydroelectric plants, with a total generating capacity of 83,000 kilowatts. Also, visit Pulaski County Tourism for more to do. In less than half a mile, the VA-311 will be on the right. Download theVirginia Department of Wildlife Resources biologist's report. In 1962, 35 additional acres were purchased, bringing the total acreage to 472. The plant life is predominantly representative of a mature oak-hickory-poplar forest. Check-in is 1:00 p.m. and check-out is 11:00 a.m. for both reservable fields. The Catawba Campsite and Pig Farm Campsite are both along the Appalachian Trail. In this section of the AT, all camping must be done in designated areas. Boats longer than 24 feet cannot be accommodated. The pictographs directly below show park offerings. While sites cannot be guaranteed before 4 p.m., they are often available, so campers are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy the park if the site isn't available. Your vigilance ensures a quality fishing and recreational experience for you and future park guests. A small gift shop is located in the store. The Base Camp Discovery Center is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Labor Day. Learn more about gear rental options for your trip . Catawba Campsite is west of McAfee Knob (on the parking side), while Pig Farm is east of it, moving toward Tinker Cliffs. Vehicles: At campsites, two vehicles per site in addition to the camping unit. This land was given to the state to be developed as Claytor Lake State Park. Gas dock, gift shop and snack bar. The Buck Hill Trail offers a hike much like hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are first-come, first-served. These shelters are usually wooden, shed-like structures that can sleep around eight people. Rental Options. The meeting room, restrooms, gift shop and snack bar are accessible. There are seven sets of bunk beds as well as a refrigerator, microwave and coffee pot. And with information centers, gift shops, and the expertise of park rangers, it's never difficult to find assistance or an answer to a question. Boat rentals are privately owned and are open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day Visit Claytor Lake Water Sports and Mountain 2 Island for more information and pricing on boat rentals. Go 8.8 miles. In 1774, Thomas Jefferson bought the bridge and 157 surrounding acres from King George III of England for 20 shillings. The plans are updated at least once every 10 years thereafter. Camping in Roanoke, VA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2023 | Hipcamp Camping near Roanoke, Virginia The Roanoke area offers everything from private outdoor hideaways to family-friendly campgrounds. Previously known as Fort A.P. Camping cancelation/early departure policies apply to overnight dock rentals. Please call the park, (540) 643-2500, or email, Latitude, 37.057372. Roanoke, VA 24019 Our top picks for Roanoke: 1. Tent Camping Near Roanoke Va - CampingProClub.com Campsites have recently been renovated for guest comfort and park resource protection. Website designed and managed by, Military Campground and RV Parks Articles, Bethel Recreation Area - Park and FamCamp, Richmond Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation RV Camp. Jeep enthusiasts can experience some of the most challenging 4-wheeling in Virginia at nearby Potts Mountain Jeep Road. Those interested in hosting a 5K at the park should contact the park office. CAMPGROUND CLOSED as a military campground. For those wishing to see the renowned McAfee Knob sunrise, camping might be just the ticket! Turn right on Craig Creek Road (SR 621). 2 . There's a 14-night maximum stay limit. Though McAfee Knob is the most popular AT hike in Virginia, its also part of an iconic 20-mile trek that features two other highly regarded viewing areas: Dragons Tooth and Tinker Cliffs. Roanoke RV Parks - Top 10 Campgrounds in Roanoke, VA - RVshare Campgrounds A and D have accessible restrooms. Picnic table and a charcoal pedestal grill in the yard beside the cabin. Two camping units are allowed per campsite; only one axled camper is allowed per site. Additional parking is very limited and may be unavailable near the lodge. The 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. A variety of ready-to-serve hot and cold foods are available. Map Information, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests The Virginia State Parks in the region offer a great opportunity to experience the outdoors of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Adding to the challenge, the elevation change from the McAfee Knob trailhead to the mountain summit is 1700 feet, with the second half of the trail being considerably steeper than the first half. Experience life in a typical Monacan Indian settlement in the parks outdoor exhibit. Six-night minimum stay reduced depending on availability to: Four-night minimum 90 days prior to arrival, Two-night minimum 30 days prior to arrival, A two-night minimum stay is required for the rest of the year. Natural Bridge is home to Thistle Ridge Disc Golf Trail, an 18-hole disc golf course, which features extensive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is designed for players of all skill levels. George Washington & Jefferson National Forests - The Pines Campground The trail would be constructed by linking together existing paths to make a nearly 2,200-mile walking route through the Appalachian Mountains. Facilities Explore Park Camping Camping One Park, Two Campgrounds! Download (external link for use with Avenza App) the geo-referenced map, Download the geo-referenced map for this park. Claytor Lake Water Sports at the marina offers various pontoons, motorboats, canoes and kayaks and can handle all your boat rental needs. Whether you're visiting Chesapeake Bay, winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains or enjoying the Great Appalachian Valley, you'll have a KOA nearby. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk, weather permitting. Therefore, please carefully read the following. Cabin 13 has a wood-burning fireplace for which the park provides a bundle of complimentary firewood. Follow FDR 95 2.1 miles to the intersection with FDR 958 and . The plans cover the size, types, infrastructure and locations of facilities as well as the site's special features and resources. At a Glance. No cooking or smoking is permitted in the camping lodge. Continue west on U.S. 250 for 10 miles past Churchville and turn right onto State Route (S.R.) A full-service bathhouse is located at the campground for hot showers and a wash sink for any dishes. Many interpretive programs and guided walks are offered throughout the year, but primarily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Cancelations made 60 days or less before the reservation start date are not eligible for a refund. Archery Camp Level 1 & 2 7/10 - 7/12 & 7/17 - 7/19! Campfires are allowed in designated campfire rings at each campsite. Mitchell.. See details on reservation cancellation and transfer policies for cabins and lodges. Minimize your impacts on the outdoor environment, Tread Lightly! A valid Virginia freshwater fishing license is required. Theres also Daleville Park and Ride, which offers a shuttle service to the various trailheads as well. You may want to bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. No extra bed rentals. North Creek Campground - Buchanan, Virginia. The beach complex's snack bar is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. No more than two boats per lodge are allowed to be moored at the dock from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Large and small shelters are available. connected to the .gov website. Accommodations for those with accessibility needs can be made by calling the park for more details. 11, which runs atop Natural Bridge, Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, 07/06/2023 - Lantern Tour of the Natural Bridge, 07/07/2023 - Lookin' for Lightning Bugs Sunset Hike, 07/13/2023 - Lantern Tour of the Natural Bridge, 07/14/2023 - Lookin' for Lightning Bugs Sunset Hike, Where to play disc golf at Virginia State Parks, Seven events to see holiday lights at Virginia State Parks, AmeriCorps NCCC working at Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. The nonprofit group agreed to pay for the remaining 1,300 acres with a loan from the Virginia Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund, from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Resources Authority. Increase your Roanoke County's Summer 2023 recreation program lineup is now available! Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp - Recreation.gov The camping lodge has a covered front porch and a small deck behind it. Official websites use .gov A .gov The cabins have no dishwasher, phone, TV, washer or dryer. Open Season: mid-April - late-October Restrictions: If youre up for a challenging mountain trek with a pretty powerful payoff at the end, read on for our tips for hiking the McAfee Knob trail. ) or https:// means you've safely Phone Number. Fire-pit, picnic table and charcoal grill provided. Cedar Creek Pavilion has a sheltered area for picnicking, and the Cascade picnic area seats up to 24 and can accommodate a tent. 540-265-5100, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gwj/recreation/bicycling/recarea/?recid=73631&actid=33, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Caldwell Fields Group Campground Reservation Information at Recreation.gov, UPDATE:Some AT Camping Prohibited due to bear activity, Temp Closure: Rocky Run ATV trail, Second Mountain, Long Run Rd, Vepco Rd, Craig Creek Bridge on Appalachian Trail Removed.