Hickory Ridge Campground

For Virginians seeking an unparalleled outdoor adventure amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, Hickory Ridge Campground offers an idyllic escape. This fantastic campground is nestled within the renowned Grayson Highlands State Park, a jewel in Virginia's state park system, famous for its unique alpine-like peaks, diverse wildlife including wild ponies, and direct access to legendary trails. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a family looking for a memorable weekend, or an RVer seeking serene mountain views, Hickory Ridge provides a welcoming base.

Visitors consistently praise Hickory Ridge Campground for its well-maintained facilities and the sheer beauty of its surroundings. Reviewers frequently highlight the "clean facilities, including heated bathrooms and showers," a welcome comfort after a day of exploring. The opportunity to see "wild ponies roaming nearby" is a unique and cherished experience that sets this campground apart. With a variety of site types, from tent and RV spots to comfortable yurts, Hickory Ridge aims to cater to diverse camping preferences, ensuring that everyone can "rough it or enjoy a bit of comfort." It's more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to some of Virginia's most spectacular natural wonders and a chance to truly connect with the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Highlands.

Hickory Ridge Campground is officially located within Grayson Highlands State Park, with the address Virginia 24363, USA. The park's main address is 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363. This puts the campground in the southwestern part of Virginia, deeply embedded in the Appalachian Mountains. Its elevated position, with park elevations often exceeding 5,000 feet, ensures cooler temperatures, even in summer, providing a refreshing escape from the Virginia heat.

Access to Grayson Highlands State Park, and by extension Hickory Ridge Campground, requires navigating some scenic, winding, and at times steep mountain roads. While access roads are generally in excellent condition, visitors with larger RVs or trailers should be aware of these grades, particularly when approaching from the east on US 58. The park is a bit remote, meaning cell service can be spotty, which for many campers is a welcomed part of disconnecting and immersing in nature. However, it's worth noting for planning purposes. Despite its seemingly remote feel, the campground offers unparalleled access to key regional attractions. It provides year-round access to the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, making it a prime spot for serious hikers and equestrians. The park's visitor center and its numerous trailheads are easily accessible from the campground, ensuring that adventure is always just a short walk or drive away.

Hickory Ridge Campground, as part of Grayson Highlands State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors, from traditional tent campers to RV enthusiasts and those seeking a unique glamping experience.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a variety of site types, catering to different preferences:

  • Electric and Water Sites: 36 sites with 30-amp and some 50-amp electric hookups, and water connections for RVs and trailers (accommodating up to 50-foot vehicles).

  • Standard Campsites: 28 sites without water or electric hookups, ideal for tent camping or smaller RVs/vans.

  • Yurts: Four yurts are available in Hickory Ridge Campground, offering a more comfortable, semi-furnished camping experience with beds, a bistro table, and outdoor decks with picnic tables and fire rings. They are heated for cooler weather.

  • Camping Lodge (Bunkhouse): A two-room trailer with seven bunk beds, a refrigerator, microwave, coffeepot, and heating/AC, providing a more rustic cabin-like stay.

  • Equestrian Campsites: Though in a separate area, the park also offers 23 equestrian sites with electric and water hookups for those bringing horses.

• Clean Bathhouses: Consistently praised by visitors, the bathhouses are heated, clean, and feature flush toilets and showers. There are both communal shower facilities and private single shower rooms for added comfort. An outdoor wash sink for dishes is also available.

• Sanitary Dump Station: Available for RVers to conveniently dispose of wastewater.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is readily available throughout the campground.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite, regardless of type, includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking grate, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires.

• Firewood and Ice Sales: Both firewood and ice are available for purchase directly at the park, eliminating the need for off-site trips.

• Visitor Center and General Store: Although the visitor center is on the opposite side of the park, it's worth a visit for exhibits on pioneer life, local flora and fauna, and a gift shop. A country store nearby offers snacks, drinks, ice cream, and camping supplies.

• Guard-Patrolled Lake Swimming: During scheduled hours between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded lake swimming is generally available at a designated beach, with one day of free swimming for each night reserved for overnight guests.

• WiFi: Available at the campground, though cell service can be spotty in the area.

Hickory Ridge Campground's location within Grayson Highlands State Park blesses it with an abundance of unique features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination for Virginians:

• Wild Ponies: This is arguably the most famous and beloved feature. A herd of wild ponies roams freely within the park, often seen near the trails and even occasionally in the campground itself, offering a truly magical and memorable wildlife viewing experience.

• Proximity to Mount Rogers: The campground is near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest peaks, providing stunning "alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high" and challenging hiking opportunities.

• Appalachian Trail Access: Grayson Highlands offers year-round access to the legendary Appalachian Trail (AT) and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, making it a dream destination for hikers and backpackers. Numerous other trails lead to "waterfalls and overlooks," "180 degree views," and "360 degree views."

• Bouldering Opportunities: The park is renowned for its exceptional bouldering, with multiple boulder fields and over 700 named climbing routes, catering to climbers of all skill levels.

• Heated & Clean Bathhouses: A consistently praised highlight by campers. The heated, clean bathhouses with flush toilets and showers (including private shower rooms) provide a high level of comfort, especially during cooler seasons.

• Variety of Accommodations: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, the availability of comfortable yurts (with queen beds, heating, and decks) and a camping lodge (bunkhouse) provides excellent options for those seeking a glamping experience or a group stay.

• Scenic Views and Fall Foliage: The high elevation offers spectacular panoramic views, and in the autumn, the vibrant fall foliage creates a breathtaking display.

• Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond hiking, the park offers a range of activities to keep everyone entertained, including looking for ponies, exploring the historical homestead area, geocaching, and open fields for games.

As Hickory Ridge Campground is part of the Virginia State Parks system, specific promotional offers are typically managed at the state level and are less about direct discounts for the campground itself, and more about overall park experiences or membership benefits. However, visitors can look out for:

• Virginia State Parks Annual Pass: For frequent visitors to Virginia's State Parks, purchasing an annual pass can provide significant savings on entrance fees, though campground fees are separate.

• Off-Season Camping Rates: While specific details would need to be confirmed directly with Virginia State Parks, some parks may offer reduced rates during the quieter, off-peak seasons (e.g., late fall or early spring, though full-service camping at Grayson Highlands is typically May through October due to weather). Primitive camping in the stable area campground might be available with basic facilities during colder months for a nominal fee.

• Free Swimming with Overnight Stay: As mentioned, one day of guarded lake swimming is free for each night reserved for overnight guests at designated swimming beaches within Virginia State Parks, a nice perk during the summer.

• Group Discounts: While not explicitly stated for Hickory Ridge, state parks often have options for group camping or lodging that can offer a more economical rate for larger parties. The park does have one group camping area.

It is important to note that the campground may be closed for upgrades and renovations in 2025. It is crucial to check the Virginia State Parks website (www.virginiastateparks.gov) or call the reservation number for the most current information on availability, rates, and any specific promotions or closures before planning your trip. Reservations for campsites and yurts are highly recommended and can be made up to 11 months in advance.

To plan your adventure at Hickory Ridge Campground within Grayson Highlands State Park, or to inquire about availability and make reservations, please use the following contact information:

Park Address: 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363, USA (Note: While the zip code is 24363, the official street address provides better navigation.)

Park Phone: (276) 579-7092

Reservations Phone (Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center): 1-800-933-PARK (1-800-933-7275) - Available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For general information and online reservations, you can also visit the official Virginia State Parks website: www.virginiastateparks.gov or www.reservevaparks.com. It is highly recommended to call ahead or check the website for current operating status, especially regarding any potential closures for renovations, before planning your visit.

For Virginians, Hickory Ridge Campground within Grayson Highlands State Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for experiencing the very best of the Commonwealth's natural splendor. Its primary appeal lies in offering a true immersion into the unique high-country environment of the Appalachians, a stark and beautiful contrast to the state's more coastal or piedmont regions. The ability to witness wild ponies roaming freely is an unparalleled local experience that draws visitors from across Virginia and beyond.

The accessibility to the Appalachian Trail and numerous other hiking opportunities directly from the campground makes it an ideal hub for Virginians who cherish outdoor recreation, whether they're looking for a challenging multi-day trek or a leisurely day hike to breathtaking overlooks and waterfalls. The renowned bouldering facilities also cater to a niche but passionate local climbing community.

Furthermore, the comfort and quality of the campground itself, with its "clean facilities," "heated bathrooms and showers," and diverse site options including yurts, ensure a comfortable stay regardless of your camping style. This commitment to maintenance, combined with the often cooler mountain temperatures, provides a refreshing escape, particularly during Virginia's hot summer months. For any Virginian seeking adventure, tranquility, or a unique family experience amidst stunning natural beauty, Hickory Ridge Campground offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore one of their state's most iconic treasures.

Hickory Ridge Campground

Virginia 24363, USA