Rocky Knob Campground
4.56154 reviewsMilepost 167.1 Blue Ridge Parkway
Rocky Knob Campground
$30.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$45.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $30.00 for standard nonelectric sites to $45.00 for group tent-only area nonelectric during peak season.
About this campground
Perched along the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, Rocky Knob Campground invites adventurers to immerse themselves in a mountain paradise where RV sites nestle alongside tent-friendly spots, and backcountry escapes await the intrepid. Here, winding trails beckon you through ancient forests and across sun-dappled meadows, offering endless opportunities to explore one of the most scenic corridors in the eastern United States.
Rocky Knob Campground accommodates various camping styles, including RV, tent, group sites, and primitive backcountry camping.
Historical SignificanceAs one of the pioneering campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rocky Knob holds stories within its boundaries that stretch back generations. Wandering the grounds, you'll discover whispers of the past in weathered stone chimneys standing sentinel in the forest and remnants of old apple orchards where mountain families once harvested fruit beneath these same peaks—tangible connections to the hardy souls who called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsAt Rocky Knob, mountain breezes carry the crisp, clean air that defines high-elevation camping, where temperatures remain refreshingly cool even during summer months. The campground transforms with each season, but autumn steals the show when the surrounding forests explode into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber—a photographer's dream and nature lover's paradise that draws visitors from across the country.
ElevationRising from 1,700 feet to a breathtaking 3,500 feet above sea level, Rocky Knob offers a vertical journey through diverse mountain ecosystems. This dramatic elevation change, sculpted by the nearby Rock Castle Gorge, creates a natural playground where hikers can experience multiple climate zones in a single day's adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbraced by more than 4,000 acres of pristine forest, Rocky Knob showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The dramatic Rock Castle Gorge carves through the landscape below, its ancient walls glittering with crystalline quartz formations that catch the light like natural jewels. Wildflower meadows paint the hillsides with seasonal color, while panoramic vistas reveal layer upon layer of blue-hazed ridges stretching to the horizon.
Geological RegionRocky Knob sits proudly within the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, a landscape where time moves differently among the rolling meadowlands and emerald pastures of the greater Appalachian region. The spectacular Rock Castle Gorge serves as the area's geological centerpiece, its walls embedded with sparkling crystalline quartz that tells the story of millions of years of mountain-building forces, creating a natural wonderland that captivates geologists and casual observers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMinimal. Some reviews mention steep stairs and narrow roads, which may challenge accessibility.
Sites SizeVaries. Some sites are noted as spacious, while others are described as tight or unlevel.
Sites PrivacyMixed. Reviewers appreciated the spacing of some sites, while others noted close proximity to neighbors.
Total Campsites106 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with level ground for tents and avoid those near the loop roads to minimize disturbances.
Best CampsitesSites T25, T28, B18, and C16 are noted for their views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 30 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people per standard site.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate 12 to 20 people. If reserved with fewer than 12 people, staff may move campers to regular sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes reserved and non-reserved sites organized into loops, with RV pull-through sites and tent-specific pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 13 to October 26 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability62 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but their availability cannot be tracked online and must be booked in person at the campground kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, with forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations made after midnight the day before arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rocky Knob Campground offers activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, interpretive talks, live music events, and nearby attractions like Mabry Mill and Floyd town.
Hiking
Hiking trails include the challenging 10.8-mile Rock Castle Gorge Trail with elevations ranging from 1,700 to 3,572 feet and the moderate 3-mile Black Ridge Trail accessible from the visitor center.Biking
Nearby Tuggle Gap Road is highlighted by user reviews for its smooth surface and challenging hills with minimal traffic.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with sightings of deer and bears noted in reviews. Users recommend caution and proper food storage.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive talks around the Gorge and trails are conducted, focusing on historical and ecological significance.Winter Activities
Limited information. User reviews mention enjoying the autumn weather and wind sounds through the mountains.Water Sports
Not mentioned as available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings with restrictions on firewood types.
- Quiet hours are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, requiring strict food storage rules. Seasonal wind and cold can also pose challenges.
Active alertsNo active alerts were listed.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mount Airy, North Carolina, approximately 30 miles away, offers medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13 - October 26.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available but noted to have heavy lids, which may be difficult for children or some adults to use.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Rock Castle Gorge and Rock Castle Creek.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of showers, unlevel sites, and issues with reservation accuracy on Recreation.gov.
HostFred and Linda, regular campground hosts, receive high praise from campers for their friendly demeanor and helpfulness.
Campground Map
Milepost 167.1 Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving directionsRocky Knob Campground is located at Milepost 167.1 on Blue Ridge Parkway, 1.8 miles south of the intersection of the Parkway and State Route 8, about 8 miles (13 km) from the town of Floyd, or about 90 minutes south of Roanoke by car. Visitors are advised that directions from resources like Google Maps and GPS devices are not always correct and should be double-checked.
Located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the campground is easily accessible by paved roads. Seasonal closures and navigation errors from GPS systems may occur, so double-check your directions.Nearby places
Floyd: 8 miles (13 km), Mount Airy, North Carolina: 30 miles.
Nearby supplies
The town of Floyd is 8 miles away and provides food, gas, entertainment, and lodging. Additional supplies may be available in Mount Airy.
Camper Reviews
4.6
154 reviews
Rocky Knob Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rocky Knob Campground is praised for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and friendly staff. However, common criticisms include lack of showers, unlevel sites, and outdated bathrooms. The campground offers a tranquil experience, with live music and ample hiking opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 154 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic beauty, clean facilities, friendly staff, live music events, and excellent hiking trails.
Based on 154 reviewsCommon Concerns
No showers, unlevel or small sites, lack of lighting in bathrooms, and heavy trash bin lids.
Based on 154 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring flashlights for night bathroom use, soap for the restrooms, and leveling blocks for RVs. Choose sites near restrooms for convenience.
Based on 154 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer offers live music and interpretive programs, while autumn is praised for its beautiful foliage and cool weather. Winter camping reviews are limited but note wind challenges.
Based on 154 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Campground hosts were extremely friendly and helpful. Restrooms were kept spotless." - Gregg D. 2. "The campground is gorgeous, nearby beautiful hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway." - Maria M. 3....
Based on 154 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site T28: Close to restrooms but has slopes, noted for its large yard. Site T25: Spacious with a great view but requires leveling for RVs.
Based on 154 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlight narrow roads and steep stairs as potential challenges. Bathrooms lack lighting, which may impact accessibility.
Based on 154 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly. Users enjoyed camping with pets but noted bears frequent the area, requiring caution.
Based on 154 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025