Peaks Of Otter Campground

3.89

368 reviews

Milepost 85.9 Blue Ridge Parkway

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

2,500 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

139 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,500 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

139 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Peaks Of Otter Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates are $30 per night for both tent-only and RV non-electric sites. Additional fees apply for reservation service, cancellations, and...

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$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

540-586-7321

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

3.89

Mixed Reviews

Based on 368 reviews

125 Google reviews

Most mentioned

locationhiking

Some mention

cell service

"User reviews of Peaks of Otter Campground are mixed, with many praising its natural beauty, wildlife, and proximity to trails, while others criticize the outdated facilities and lack of amenities such as showers."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Milepost 85.9 Blue Ridge Parkway

Peaks Of Otter Campground

Milepost 85.9 Blue Ridge Parkway

Driving directionsFrom Roanoke, Virginia, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north for 26 miles to Milepost 86. From Bedford, Virginia, follow Route 43 to Blue Ridge Parkway; the campground is on the left before reaching the Parkway.

The campground is accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a scenic byway with paved roads. However, some reviews cite issues with noise from the nearby highway and broken paving at pull-off sites.

Nearby places

Roanoke, Virginia - 26 miles, Bedford, Virginia - distance not specified.

Nearby supplies

Walking distance to Peaks of Otter Lodge and Sharp Top Country Store, which provide camping supplies, firewood, ice, souvenirs, grab-and-go meals, and restaurant dining.

Best Time to Camp at Peaks Of Otter Campground

Summer transforms Peaks of Otter into an outdoor playground, with ideal conditions for hiking the surrounding trails and exploring the mountain landscape. While the season brings warmth and long days perfect for adventure, visitors should note that the thick forest canopy can trap humidity, creating that classic Appalachian summer atmosphere. The remote mountain location means cell phone service is limited, offering a true digital detox for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing and interpretive programs; many summer positives in reviews.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in US

Fall praised for vibrant foliage on the Blue Ridge Parkway; excellent scenic color displays.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Limited spring access (opens late May); mild conditions but shortened season for true spring foliage.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 23–Oct 26; winter visits limited and maintenance issues reported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - October 26, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, through October 26, 2025.
Current Alerts: null

About Peaks Of Otter Campground

Tucked away in the heart of Virginia's iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Peaks of Otter Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. Here, beneath a cathedral of thick tree canopies that filter the morning light into dancing patterns, you'll find thoughtfully equipped sites complete with picnic tables, lantern poles, and grills. The campground maintains that authentic outdoor experience with flush toilets and fresh drinking water, while the natural shade keeps your site cool even on warm summer days.

Peaks of Otter Campground offers various camping options, including tent and RV camping. Group camping and cabins are not explicitly mentioned.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the historic Blue Ridge Parkway, where the campground serves as your gateway to Virginia's rich mountain heritage. Just a short journey away, the preserved Johnson Farm stands as a testament to 19th-century Appalachian life, while Aunt Polly's Ordinary offers a glimpse into the region's early hospitality traditions. These carefully maintained historical structures tell the story of the hardy souls who first called these mountains home.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Peaks of Otter into an outdoor playground, with ideal conditions for hiking the surrounding trails and exploring the mountain landscape. While the season brings warmth and long days perfect for adventure, visitors should note that the thick forest canopy can trap humidity, creating that classic Appalachian summer atmosphere. The remote mountain location means cell phone service is limited, offering a true digital detox for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during Virginia's warm months. This elevated position creates a comfortable microclimate where temperatures typically run several degrees cooler than the valleys below, making summer camping particularly enjoyable.

Natural Features and SceneryThree majestic peaks stand sentinel around the campground, creating a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventure. The crown jewel of the area is the stunning 24-acre Abbott Lake, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. Dense forests envelope the campground, alive with the rustle of wildlife—from graceful deer browsing at dawn to wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush. Birdwatchers delight in the rare species that call these ancient woods home, their songs providing nature's soundtrack to your stay.

Geological RegionThe campground rests within the undulating landscape of Virginia's rolling hills, part of the greater Blue Ridge Parkway system that winds through the southern Appalachian mountains. This ancient geological wonderland showcases millions of years of mountain-building forces, creating the distinctive ridges and valleys that define one of America's most scenic regions.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 nights per visit and per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites are for parties not exceeding six people unless designated as group camping.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are divided into loops (e.g., Loop A, B, T) with uneven terrain. Most sites have tent pads and are under tree canopies.

Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov website, app, and contact center.

Walk-in Availability79 first-come, first-served campsites available. These sites must be booked in person at the campground kiosk; availability cannot be tracked online.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival but a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations also subtract the first night's fee. Modifications are allowed with a $10 change fee.

AccessibilityPrepared tent pads, accessible campsites, and accessible grills are offered. However, some users mention uneven terrain as a challenge for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe sites vary in size, with some being spacious and others described as narrow or small, particularly for RVs. User quotes include, 'Sites were well sized but very small and uneven.

PrivacyRelatively private; sites are often shaded under trees. Some users praised the privacy, 'Camp sites are spacious and spread out relatively well for privacy.

Total Campsites139 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites close to Highway 43 for less noise. Choose sites with tent pads for easier setup.

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Peaks of Otter Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and cultural programs. The nearby Abbott Lake is a key attraction for fishing and scenic walks. Interpretive programs and numerous hiking trails cater to varying skill levels.

HikingThe campground provides access to several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks around Abbott Lake to challenging climbs up Sharp Top and other peaks. User reviews highlight the scenic views and variety of trails, with one reviewer stating, 'Sharp Top summit trail was very crowded on a Saturday afternoon but the views were spectacular.'

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing opportunities are available at Abbott Lake, which is well-stocked with smallmouth bass and bluegill.

Wildlife viewingAbundant wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, and rare bird species are frequently spotted. User reviews mention bears and deer sightings, with one stating, 'Saw bears and deers grazing next to the van.'

Cultural and Educational ProgramsSummer interpretive programs are available, focusing on local wildlife and history. Nearby attractions include Johnson Farm and Aunt Polly's Ordinary, which offer historical insights.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is frequent; campers are advised to store food securely in cars or lockers. Falling branches have been reported.

Active Alertsnull

Food Storage RequiredProvided at campsites; essential for bear safety.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in provided grills/fire pits. Firewood must comply with USDA heat-treatment standards.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Emergency Servicesnull

Trash & RecyclingNo specific details mention trash and recycling facilities. User reviews highlight the importance of keeping a clean camp due to the presence of bears.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Abbott Lake, which is well-stocked for fishing. No swimming is allowed.

Camp HostHosts are described as helpful and friendly but not always available on-site.

Weather at Peaks Of Otter Campground

Reviews

3.9

368 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Peaks Of Otter Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Peaks of Otter Campground are mixed, with many praising its natural beauty, wildlife, and proximity to trails, while others criticize the outdated facilities and lack of amenities such as showers.

Review Summaries

Based on 368 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the scenic location, abundant wildlife, and proximity to hiking trails. One user stated, 'This is one of the best campgrounds on the east coast, in my opinion.'

Based on 368 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints often focus on the lack of modern amenities such as showers, uneven and small campsites, and maintenance issues like moss-covered picnic tables and broken paving.

Based on 368 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend selecting sites in the back loops for more privacy and fewer maintenance issues. Bringing boards or jacks for leveling RVs and planning ahead for the lack of cell service are common...

Based on 368 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews often highlight the lack of maintenance, while summer reviews focus on wildlife sightings and interpretive programs. Fall is praised for its vibrant foliage.

Based on 368 reviews

Camper Quotes

Direct quotes include: 'Camp sites are spacious and spread out relatively well for privacy.' 'Bathrooms were clean and well maintained.' 'I grew up camping here and have wonderful memories.' 'The...

Based on 368 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback varies widely, with some praising spacious tent pads and proximity to bathrooms, while others criticize RV sites as uneven and narrow.

Based on 368 reviews