Boley Field Group Campground

Virginia, a state celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and rich historical tapestry, offers an incredible array of outdoor experiences for its residents. From the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene national forests, the Old Dominion provides countless opportunities to escape the everyday and immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature. For those in Virginia seeking a unique camping experience, particularly for groups who value rustic charm and direct access to outdoor adventures, Boley Field Group Campground near Blacksburg stands out as an exceptional choice.

Boley Field Group Campground, nestled within the expansive George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, is not your typical amenity-laden commercial campground. Instead, it offers an "old-fashioned, rustic" group camping experience, perfect for those who require few modern conveniences and prefer to truly connect with the wilderness. This large, open field is specifically designed for groups of up to 50 people who wish to picnic, tent camp, and gather together in a natural setting. It’s managed by the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring its preservation and providing a true public land experience.

What makes Boley Field particularly appealing for Virginians, especially those around the Blacksburg area, is its combination of seclusion and accessibility. While it provides a sense of being "off the grid" with minimal amenities, it remains relatively close to the vibrant college town of Blacksburg. This balance allows groups to enjoy the quiet solitude of the forest during their stay, while still having the option to easily access town for supplies or other needs. Reviews consistently highlight its fantastic location for accessing nearby trails and the Poverty Creek waterway, making it an ideal base for hikers, mountain bikers, and anglers. If your group values natural beauty, privacy, and outdoor recreation over luxury, Boley Field Group Campground is a compelling option for your next Virginia adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Boley Field Group Campground is located at 4554 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA. This address places it within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, specifically in the Eastern Divide Ranger District. It's nestled at the base of Brush Mountain in a narrow valley, alongside the picturesque Poverty Creek. This location is roughly 20-21 minutes west of Blacksburg, Virginia, making it quite accessible for residents of the New River Valley and beyond.

To reach the campground from Blacksburg (junction of North Main Street and US 460), visitors typically follow US 460 west for about 3 miles. Then, turn left onto Forest Service Road (FS) 708 at the Giles County line and continue for approximately 4.5 miles. The gate to Boley Field will be on your left. It is crucial to note that the road to the camping area is unpaved, and a creek crossing is required to access Boley Field. Vehicles towing a trailer may hit the ground at this creek crossing, so caution is advised. Additionally, cell phone service is typically unreliable in this area, reinforcing the "getaway" aspect of the campground. Access to the campground gate requires a combination code, which must be obtained by calling the Eastern Divide Ranger District during business hours prior to arrival.

Services Offered

• Group Camping: Designed specifically for groups, accommodating up to 50 people. This is a single, large open field site.
• Rustic/Primitive Camping: Boley Field provides an old-fashioned, rustic camping experience, emphasizing minimal amenities and a strong connection to nature.
• Tent Camping: Primarily set up for tent camping, with a large open field suitable for multiple tents.
• Group Fire Ring: A communal fire ring is available for group gatherings and campfires (subject to fire regulations and conditions).
• Picnic Tables: Several picnic tables are provided within the field for dining and group activities.
• Standing Grill: A standing grill is available for outdoor cooking.
• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet (a non-flush restroom facility) is on-site for basic sanitation needs.
• No Potable Water: It is essential for visitors to bring their own drinking water, as there is no potable water source at the campground.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs or tents.
• No Trash Collection: This is a "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" facility. All trash must be removed by campers upon departure.
• Reservations Required: Unlike some primitive sites, reservations are required for Boley Field Group Campground and can be booked up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov.

Features / Highlights

• Secluded Group Setting: Offers a private and spacious area for groups to gather, picnic, and camp away from general public camping areas.
• Proximity to Poverty Creek: Located adjacent to Poverty Creek, which provides opportunities for splashing in its cool waters and is regularly stocked with trout, offering excellent fishing opportunities for anglers.
• Direct Trail Access: Easy access to the 17-mile Poverty Creek Trail System, making it a prime spot for hikers and mountain bikers. This system offers a taste of the diverse terrain of the Jefferson National Forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: As it's situated within a national forest, campers have the opportunity to see local wildlife, as noted by past visitors.
• Natural Shade: The surrounding forest provides natural shade, which can be a welcome relief during warmer months.
• Close to Blacksburg: Despite its rustic feel, the campground is only about 20 minutes from Blacksburg, providing convenient access to town amenities for supplies or emergencies.
• Located within George Washington and Jefferson National Forest: Offers the chance to experience a federally protected forest, with abundant opportunities for exploration and connection with nature.
• Quiet Atmosphere: The remote setting and group-specific nature contribute to a generally quiet and peaceful camping experience.
• Suitable for Retreats: Ideal for group retreats, scout troops, family reunions, or any gathering seeking an outdoor, back-to-basics experience.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a U.S. Forest Service managed group campground, Boley Field Group Campground does not typically offer commercial promotions or discounts in the traditional sense. Its "offer" is its affordable rate for group use of a designated, private, rustic campsite within a national forest.

• Flat Rate for Group Site: The fee for Boley Field Group Campground is a flat rate per night for the entire group site, usually around $35.00 (prices are subject to change, so confirming with Recreation.gov is advised).
• Value for Groups: The value comes from securing a private space for a large group at a fixed, economical price, especially when compared to booking multiple individual sites at commercial campgrounds.

Reservations are required and can be made through Recreation.gov. It's recommended to check their listing for the most current pricing and availability.

Contact Information

For campground inquiries, to obtain the gate combination code, or for information regarding the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, please use the following contact details:

Address: 4554 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA (This is the physical location for navigation.)

Mailing Address (Eastern Divide Ranger District): 110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060-6648

Phone: (540) 552-4641 (Eastern Divide Ranger District office)

Mobile Phone: +1 540-552-4641

Reservations: Recreation.gov website

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Virginia residents, particularly those in the Southwestern region and around Blacksburg, Boley Field Group Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and valuable option for group outdoor adventures. Its primary appeal lies in providing a secluded, rustic, and affordable private space for gatherings, retreats, or family reunions within the stunning George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. This means locals can easily plan a memorable group outing without having to travel far from home.

While the campground embraces a no-frills, "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" philosophy and lacks modern hookups or potable water, this very simplicity is often what appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who desire a genuine connection with nature. The direct access to the 17-mile Poverty Creek Trail System makes it a prime location for local hikers and mountain bikers, while Poverty Creek itself offers excellent trout fishing opportunities. The knowledge that they are camping on public lands, surrounded by rich wildlife and natural beauty, further enhances the experience. For Virginians seeking an authentic, uncrowded, and budget-friendly group camping experience focused on outdoor recreation and communal enjoyment, Boley Field Group Campground is an ideal and beloved local resource.

Boley Field Group Campground

4554 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA