Country Campground

For Virginians who cherish the great outdoors but prefer a more authentic, back-to-basics camping experience without breaking the bank, Country Campground in New Castle, VA, offers an ideal solution. Tucked away in the scenic beauty of Craig County, this rustic campground provides a welcoming haven for adventurers, hikers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's the perfect spot for those who appreciate simplicity, natural surroundings, and a truly memorable outdoor experience.

Country Campground stands out in the Virginia camping landscape not for its luxury amenities, but for its genuine charm, unbeatable value, and fantastic proximity to some of the state's most iconic hiking trails. It caters to a community of campers who value peace, quiet, and the raw beauty of the Appalachian region. Whether you're a seasoned thru-hiker looking for a comfortable stop along the Appalachian Trail, a family seeking a budget-friendly weekend getaway, or simply someone yearning for a quiet night under the stars, Country Campground promises an experience that is both practical and profoundly refreshing.

In this detailed guide, we'll explore what makes Country Campground a hidden gem for local Virginians. We'll cover its prime location, the essential services and unique features it offers, and why it consistently earns rave reviews from campers who return year after year. Get ready to discover your next favorite camping destination in the heart of Virginia.

Country Campground is perfectly situated at 202 Country Campground Dr, New Castle, VA 24127, USA, placing it strategically in Craig County, known for its mountainous terrain and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Its location offers an excellent balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to popular attractions and essential services.

For avid hikers, the campground's proximity to world-renowned Appalachian Trail landmarks is a massive draw. It's approximately a 13-minute drive to the trailheads for McAfee Knob and Dragon's Tooth. This means campers can wake up, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and still be on the trail early enough to catch the sunrise from these famous overlooks. Being so close allows for more sleep and less travel time, a huge advantage for pre-dawn hikes.

The campground is conveniently located just half a mile off Route 311, making it easily accessible for both cars and RVs. It's also about 14.5 to 16 miles from I-81 (Exit 141), which is a major interstate highway running through Virginia, ensuring that travelers from various parts of the state or beyond can find their way with relative ease. New Castle town center is just 4 miles away, providing access to local gas stations, small shops, and other basic necessities, preventing the need for extensive detours for supplies. This blend of remote tranquility and practical accessibility truly makes Country Campground a prime spot for locals to connect with the Virginia wilderness.

Country Campground focuses on providing the fundamental services that make a rustic camping experience comfortable and enjoyable, without overcomplicating things. It embraces a more traditional camping ethos, where the focus is on nature rather than elaborate amenities. The services typically available include:

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: The campground offers a mix of sites suitable for both tent campers and recreational vehicles. There are reported to be about 20 campsites with electric and water hook-ups, and potentially 30 more sites without hook-ups, offering flexibility for different camping styles. Each site generally includes a fire ring and a picnic table.
• Electric Hook-ups: Some sites provide 35-amp electricity, a crucial amenity for RVs and for charging devices, extending the comfort of your stay.
• Water Hook-ups: Well water hook-ups are available at some sites. While the owner states it's drinkable, some campers prefer to take precautions, bringing their own water or filtering the well water.
• Restrooms: The campground provides basic restroom facilities. It's noted that these are "valet bathrooms" and may be rustic, indicating a more utilitarian approach. Access to a gas station just 2 minutes away also offers an alternative for more modern facilities.
• Cold Water Showers: A unique and often appreciated feature is the availability of summer (outdoor) cold water showers, providing a refreshing way to clean up after a day of hiking or exploring.
• Wood Piles: Campers have mentioned that wood piles are provided at each campsite, making it easy to gather firewood for campfires and adding to the rustic camping experience.
• On-Site Management/Host: The presence of a friendly and helpful host, as noted in reviews, ensures that assistance is available and contributes to a positive camping atmosphere.
• Basic Waste Disposal: While not explicitly detailed, campgrounds typically have provisions for waste disposal, often through shared dumpsters or waste receptacles.
• Event Facilities: The campground is also noted to have a pavilion, pole barn, and gazebo available for events, suggesting it can accommodate group gatherings and reunions.

Country Campground in New Castle stands out for its distinctive features that resonate deeply with campers seeking an authentic and value-driven outdoor experience:

• Unbeatable Affordability: At approximately $20 per night for a tent site and $30 for campers/motor homes, Country Campground is consistently praised as one of the best and cheapest campsites in the area. This low price point makes it incredibly accessible for budget-conscious travelers and local Virginians looking for an economical getaway.
• Proximity to Iconic Hiking Trails: Its location is a dream for hikers, being only about a 13-minute drive from the trailheads of McAfee Knob and Dragon's Tooth. This allows campers to hit these famous Appalachian Trail sections early, maximizing their hiking time and making sunrise treks feasible.
• Rustic and Quiet Atmosphere: Campers consistently highlight the peaceful and rustic nature of the campground. It's a place to truly disconnect, with reviews often mentioning seeing only a few other families nearby, ensuring a tranquil experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: The natural setting offers frequent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Reviews mention seeing deer while setting up camp and waking up to horses wandering nearby, adding a magical and memorable element to the stay.
• Friendly and Accommodating Host: The host receives consistent praise for being exceptionally nice and helpful, contributing significantly to the positive camping experience and making visitors feel welcome.
• Provided Wood Piles: The convenience of having wood piles available at each campsite means campers don't have to search for or purchase firewood, making campfire setup much easier and more enjoyable.
• "Summer Shower" Experience: The cold water outdoor shower, though rustic, is mentioned as a "neat experience" by a past camper, embracing the true essence of wilderness camping.
• Community Feel (Sometimes): While often quiet, the presence of owner's relatives and friends who gather on certain days can create a friendly, impromptu community atmosphere where fellow campers are kind and helpful.

Country Campground is primarily known for its consistently low and competitive rates, which are already a significant draw for many campers seeking affordability. As a more rustic and family-operated establishment, it doesn't typically engage in the kind of complex promotional offers or discounts often found at larger, more commercial campgrounds or resort chains. Their main "special offer" is the exceptional value they provide day in and day out for a basic yet highly functional and well-situated campsite.

Current publicly available rates indicate that tent sites are approximately $20 per night, and sites for campers/motor homes are around $30 per night. These rates are already considered "super low" by many visitors, making it an inherently budget-friendly option. For the most precise and up-to-date information on any potential changes to pricing, or to inquire if they ever have specific deals for extended stays or group bookings, it is always recommended to contact Country Campground directly. Their friendly host will be the best source for current rates and any information on their offerings.

To inquire about availability, make a reservation, or simply learn more about Country Campground and its offerings, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 202 Country Campground Dr, New Castle, VA 24127, USA

Phone: (540) 864-7575

Mobile Phone: +1 540-864-7575

The host is highly praised for being very nice and helpful, so don't hesitate to give them a call with any questions you may have before planning your rustic Virginia camping adventure.

For Virginians, Country Campground in New Castle truly embodies the essence of an ideal local camping spot, perfectly blending affordability with direct access to some of the state's most cherished natural attractions. This isn't a glitzy resort; it's a genuine, down-to-earth campground that resonates with those who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences and the simple pleasures of nature. Its suitability for locals is evident in several key aspects.

Firstly, the incredibly low price point makes it an accessible option for frequent weekend getaways or longer stays without breaking the bank. This affordability ensures that more Virginians can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of camping, whether they're seasoned hikers or families introducing their children to the outdoors. Secondly, its strategic location is a dream come true for hikers. Being just minutes away from the trailheads of McAfee Knob and Dragon's Tooth means less time driving and more time on the trails, allowing for those coveted sunrise hikes or extended explorations of the Appalachian Trail. This unparalleled convenience for outdoor enthusiasts in the Roanoke Valley and beyond is a major draw.

Furthermore, the rustic and quiet atmosphere, coupled with the chance to encounter local wildlife like deer and even horses, provides a refreshing escape from urban noise and stresses. It offers a genuine connection to Virginia's natural heritage, fostering a sense of peace and relaxation. The friendly and accommodating host, a consistent highlight in reviews, adds a personal touch that makes campers feel truly welcome, contributing to a memorable and positive experience. For Virginians seeking an unpretentious, budget-friendly, and perfectly located base for their outdoor adventures in the beautiful mountains of Southwest Virginia, Country Campground is not just suitable—it's a truly ideal choice.

Country Campground

202 Country Campground Dr, New Castle, VA 24127, USA