Some of Montgomery County’s most treasured outdoor locales, like the New River and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, are so enchanting that many visitors don’t want to leave even after the sun has set over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Luckily, there are plenty of places where you can set up camp or pull in the RV and enjoy a few nights under the stars in the New River Valley.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Stretching across the breathtaking Appalachian mountains, the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are among the top attractions for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Montgomery County and the New River Valley. Offering just about every type of terrain, visitors can play all day and then settle in for the night at one of 50 developed campgrounds located throughout the Forest, which feature large, level campsites, tables, fire rings, electricity and bath houses.
Those who really like roughing it can opt for one of the more primitive campsites that are just outside of Montgomery County: Boley Field Group Campground and Caldwell Fields Campground.
Boley Field Group Campground offers a more rustic, old-fashioned camping experience. The large, open field is great for larger groups and families who wish to picnic and camp together. As the campground is located just outside of Blacksburg, campers can enjoy the modern amenities of the town and retire to the quiet of the Montgomery County night sky at day’s end. Similarly, Caldwell Fields Campground offers that authentic camping experience just outside of the thriving towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg.
Camp sites are available on a first-come first-served basis and reservations are required. For more about Boley Field and Caldwell Field, as well as all of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests’ campgrounds, visit recreation.gov.
New River Junction
Located along the banks of the New River, New River Junction is a family-operated campground where you can set up camp right on the shoreline. All campsites have picnic tables, fire pits and electric service, and RV sites also feature water hook-ups. When not relaxing next to a warm camp fire and allowing the mystic waters to sooth your soul, you can rent tubes for the whole family (along with a tube for your cooler) and simply relax as they float down nearly one mile of calm water. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there is an optional 200 yards of exhilarating rapids at the end of the float. Reservations are required. Please visit newriverjunction.com/camping/ to learn more.
