The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and travels through Virginia and North Carolina. Nine campgrounds are located along the parkway, allowing different views and experiences as you complete the journey. There are several other campgrounds located near the parkway as well, providing a variety of amenities and activities.
Types
The nine developed campgrounds along the parkway offer several tent sites and most offer RV sites. Backcountry camping is also permissible with a permit at a few of the campgrounds. Winter camping is also available, although you should inquire in advance because of limited accommodations. All camping in the nine designated parkway grounds is rather primitive, without hookups or showers. Many other destination-style campgrounds near the parkway offer more modern features, including full hookup sites and amenities such as swimming pools, miniature golf, hot showers, Wi-Fi and camp stores.
Campground Amenities and Attractions
Besides the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, valleys, flora and fauna, the nine campgrounds on the parkway offer restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings and information. They are often relatively close to points of interest, including mountains, popular cities, rivers and historical attractions. There are several state and national parks, wilderness areas and national forests along the parkway.
Outdoor Recreation
There are several outdoor activities located within the campgrounds or a short drive or hike away. Hiking and bicycling are popular, and both are versatile cardiovascular workouts. Hiking is allowed on several designated trails and walkways ranging from short, low-impact trails to intense terrain. Cycling is allowed along the parkway, but not on hiking trails or walkways. Because the road was built to "lay easy on the land," the parkway is sometimes an unforgiving route for bicycling.
Fishing areas, including lakes, streams, ponds and rivers, are also in abundance along the parkway and near the campgrounds. Anglers must receive a permit from either Virginia or North Carolina, and limits and rules may be in place.
Biodiversity
A camping expedition is incomplete without a variety of flora and fauna to view. The Appalachian Mountains are particularly diverse, offering 1,600 vascular plants and more species of trees than all of Europe. Animal life is also abundant, with 75 species of mammals, more than 75 species of reptiles and amphibians and 115 species of nesting birds. One of the species most synonymous with the Appalachians is the black bear. While hiking or exploring during your camping trip, be aware of fragile plant life. Also, adopt the "leave no trace" lifestyle, disposing of food and trash properly and not feeding the wildlife.
Considerations
Especially in the nine designated parkway campgrounds, be mindful of the weather and elevation. Most campgrounds are located above 2,500 feet, with the highest at 5,000 feet, and are much cooler in temperature than the lower-elevation surroundings. A sweater is advisable, even sometimes during the summer. With the high population of wildlife, always be aware of potentially hazardous encounters, particularly with bears. Bears are skilled in scavenging and may see a free meal in your picnic basket.
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