Craig Creek Recreation Area

Star4.34
29 reviews
110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060-6648, USA

Quick Facts

1,224 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 1, 2...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Eastern Divide Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Craig Creek Recreation Area
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$35 per night for group standard area (nonelectric) during peak seasons. Reservation fees ($8-$9) and cancellation fees ($10) may apply.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
540-552-4641
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What Campers Say

4.34

Recommended

Based on 29 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacyspacious

Some mention

smallcell service

"User reviews highlight the seclusion, privacy, and natural beauty of Craig Creek Recreation Area. While many appreciate the rustic and spacious campsite, others express concerns about the lack of on-site staff and cell service."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060-6648, USA

Craig Creek Recreation Area

110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060-6648, USA

Driving directionsFrom New Castle: Follow US 615 east for 11 miles to SR 817 in Oriskany. Turn right on SR 817, go 1/2 mile then take right at sign for Craig Creek. Continue straight. Veer right for the camping area gate, while the left fork leads to the day use parking area.
Access requires navigating a narrow one-lane road, which could be challenging for larger vehicles. Cell phone service is typically unavailable.
Nearby places
New Castle, VA (20 minutes away
approximately 11 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including fuel and groceries, are available in New Castle, VA, 20 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Craig Creek Recreation Area

Experience the gentle embrace of crisp mountain air during peak camping season, where comfortable days hover around 44°F before cooling to refreshing 28°F nights—perfect for cozy sleeping bags and morning coffee by the fire. The region's characteristically dry climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies with minimal rain or snow interruptions, creating ideal conditions for stargazing and outdoor adventures throughout your stay.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer highly regarded: swimming hole, canoeing, and warm-weather camping noted by users.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall foliage and scenic views are specifically noted as appealing seasons.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open in spring but fewer reviews; activities are less documented than summer/fall.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Site closed Nov–Apr; winter camping/activities not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 1 to November 1 each year.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from April 1, 2025 to November 1, 2025 and April 3, 2026 to October 25, 2026. Closed from November 1 to April 3 during off-season periods.
  • Current Alerts: No active alerts mentioned.

About Craig Creek Recreation Area

Escape to Craig Creek Recreation Area, where simplicity meets wilderness in a peaceful open meadow embraced by towering National Forest lands. This back-to-basics group camping haven invites you to gather around a crackling fire ring under star-filled skies, with only the essentials at hand—a sturdy picnic table for shared meals and a convenient vault toilet. Perfect for those seeking an authentic tent camping experience, this electricity-free sanctuary requires you to pack your own water and leave modern distractions behind, offering instead the rare gift of genuine connection with nature and companions.
Craig Creek Recreation Area is designed for group tent camping, with no facilities for RVs, individual tents, or luxury camping options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in available from 10:00 PM.
Check-out
Visitors must vacate by midnight on last reserved day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The recreation area offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing. A small swimming hole and canoe access to the creek add to the appeal. The creek is stocked with trout, making it a desirable spot for anglers. Additionally, a two-mile loop trail is available for hikers.
Hiking"A two-mile loop trail is located within the recreation area." Users have noted that the trail "hasn't been cleaned in years" with "trees and bushes everywhere," suggesting maintenance issues.
FishingThe creek is stocked with trout, providing good fishing opportunities. A valid Virginia fishing license, including a national forest stamp, is required.
SwimmingA small swimming hole is located within the recreation area, offering a refreshing summer activity.
BoatingCanoes may access the creek, and there is a nearby canoe put-in area for launching upstream.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRemote location with limited cell service raises security concerns for individual campers. Muddy conditions may occur during heavy rain.
Active AlertsNo active alerts mentioned.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Craig Creek Recreation Area

Reviews

4.3
29 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Craig Creek Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the seclusion, privacy, and natural beauty of Craig Creek Recreation Area. While many appreciate the rustic and spacious campsite, others express concerns about the lack of on-site staff and cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the privacy, spaciousness, and natural setting. One review praises it as "the best campsite in VA," while others commend it for group camping and fishing opportunities.
Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of cell phone service, limited facilities (e.g., no potable water or electricity), and poorly maintained hiking trails. One user noted it felt unsafe due to its...
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Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring drinking water and prepare for a remote and secluded experience. The site is ideal for group gatherings but may feel too isolated for solo or small-party campers. Avoid the hiking trail unless...
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Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is particularly well-regarded in summer, with users enjoying the swimming hole and canoeing. Fall offers scenic foliage. Winter and spring activities are less documented.
Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This is the best campsite in VA!" (Michael R.) "Enjoyed the privacy and solitude." (Regina S.) "Great for a family reunion type weekend." (Regina S.) "The hiking trail needs lots of work." (Kevin M.)
Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 01 is frequently mentioned. Positive remarks include its suitability for groups and easy water access. However, some users note its remoteness and potential safety concerns due to its isolation.
Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews on accessibility features were found.
Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

One user mentioned enjoying the area with their "hounds," suggesting it is pet-friendly, though official policies are not stated.
Based on 29 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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