Doughton Park Campground
4.4498 reviewsMilepost 239 Blue Ridge Parkway
Doughton Park Campground
$30.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$45.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric, Tent Only Nonelectric, RV Nonelectric sites are priced at $30 per night during peak season. Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric costs $45 per night. Reservation fees may vary based on method of reservation: $8 online/app, $9 via contact center, $3 in person.
About this campground
Perched at milepost 239 along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Doughton Park Campground offers a serene escape beneath a cathedral of towering trees. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes alive with the gentle flicker of lantern light and the warm glow of evening campfires, while modern amenities like flush toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort meets wilderness. For those seeking a more rustic experience, primitive camping beckons with the simple requirement of a free permit and the promise of unspoiled solitude.
The campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, group camping, and primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceThis storied landscape honors the legacy of Congressman Robert L. Doughton, whose vision helped preserve these mountains for future generations. Step back in time at the weathered Brinegar Cabin, where life in 1885 comes alive through preserved artifacts and mountain crafts. The nearby Caudill Cabin stands as another testament to Appalachian resilience, while scattered gravesites from the 1880s whisper tales of the hardy souls who first called these ridges home.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 3,700 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary delivers nature's own air conditioning during sultry summer days, with temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler than the valleys below. Autumn transforms the landscape into a painter's palette of crimson, amber, and gold, while crisp mountain air carries the earthy scent of fallen leaves and the promise of cozy campfire evenings.
ElevationRising to 3,688 feet where clouds often kiss the mountaintops, this lofty perch offers more than just cooler temperatures. Here, the air feels lighter, the views stretch farther, and sunset paints the distant peaks in shades of purple and rose. Morning mists dance through the valleys below while you sip coffee above it all, wrapped in the unique tranquility that only mountain elevations can provide.
Natural Features and ScenerySprawling across 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, Doughton Park unveils a tapestry of rolling meadows that flow like green rivers between steep, forested slopes. Wildlife enthusiasts delight in frequent encounters with white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, while the more elusive residents—clever red foxes, masked raccoons, gray foxes, and the occasional bobcat—leave their tracks on morning trails. Spring ignites the mountainsides with blazing displays of flame azalea and rhododendron, while July brings the purple spires of Dense Blazing Stars swaying in mountain breezes. When darkness falls, the nearby Bluffs picnic area transforms into an astronomer's dream, where the Milky Way stretches across an unpolluted canvas of stars.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient heart of the central Appalachians, this section of the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases millions of years of geological artistry. Time and weather have sculpted these mountains into a dramatic landscape where gentle ridgetop meadows suddenly give way to plunging slopes, creating a diverse ecosystem that changes with every turn of the trail. This is mountain country at its finest—where the very bones of the earth rise to meet the sky in timeless splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites with accessible walkways and restroom access are available. "We used an accessible site with hard walkways to our pit and the restrooms."
Sites SizeSites are described as small by many user reviews, with some unable to fit campers or large tents. "Tent pads are small and overgrown."
Sites PrivacyReviews are mixed: some praise privacy ('Site 9 is awesome and very private') while others criticize the close proximity of sites ('Camp sites are too close together').
Total Campsites121 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site A9’s wood stairs due to slipperiness; use stone stairs instead. Choose A01 or A02 for solar access and proximity to road for midweek stays.
Best CampsitesA09 praised for privacy and solar suitability, C86 lauded for scenic views and quiet setting.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly mentioned, but implied to be consistent with standard park practices.
Check-out
Check-out time specified as 11:00 AM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 30 nights per visit, total of 30 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single site use limited to six people unless designated for group camping.
Groups
Maximum of 20 people and 2 vehicles per group site. Minimum of 12 people required.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout121 sites spread across loops designed for tent and RV camping, with flush toilets and drinking water available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 13, 2025, to October 26, 2025, for reservations. Closed outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, app, or contact center; group reservations available.
Walk-in Availability97 campsites are first-come, first-served; availability must be booked in person at the campground kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual sites result in forfeiture of the first night's fee in addition to a $10 penalty. Reservations can be modified after arrival, subject to restrictions.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Doughton Park offers 30 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, historic sites like Brinegar Cabin and Caudill Cabin, trout fishing at Basin Cove Creek, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Over 30 miles of trails are available varying from strenuous to easy."
Hiking
Over 30 miles of trails vary in difficulty and terrain, including Bluff Mountain Trail (7.5 miles), Cedar Ridge Trail (4.4 miles), and Basin Cove Creek Trail with 26 creek crossings. "Trail elevations can change more than 2,000 feet as trails descend into the Basin Cove Creek area from the parkway."Fishing
Rainbow and Brook Trout are stocked in Basin Cove Creek. A valid Virginia or North Carolina fishing license is required.Wildlife viewing
Common sightings include white-tailed deer, raccoons, red and gray foxes, and bobcats. "Rolling ridgetop meadows and steep mountainsides characterize the 7,000-acre Doughton Park."Cultural and Educational Programs
Historic sites like Brinegar Cabin offer weaving demos and craft shows during summer, along with ranger talks at evening programs.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
No water sports mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only heat-treated firewood in original packaging allowed; campers can also collect dead/down wood near campsites. Rule strictly enforced.
- Quiet hours are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCaution advised due to bears; food and trash must be stored securely. Campsites near grass may expose visitors to ticks and other pests.
Active alertsBlue Ridge Parkway closures north and south of the site restrict access to NC Highway 18.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency phone and services are listed as available, but specific details about proximity to hospitals or police stations are not included.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13, 2025 - October 26, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be stored in food lockers or vehicles due to bear activity: "Keep a clean camp and store all food or scented items in your car or provided food lockers." No specific recycling information provided.
Proximity to water featuresProximity to Basin Cove Creek with stocked trout and multiple waterfalls accessible via hiking trails.
Common complaintsCampground facilities and tent pads described as outdated and in need of renovation. Grass maintenance concerns noted in multiple reviews.
HostCampground hosts consistently described as friendly and helpful, offering advice and support.
Campground Map
Milepost 239 Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving directionsFrom Charlotte: Take I-77 North. Merge onto US-21-BYP N via EXIT 83 on the left toward Roaring Gap/Sparta. Go 2.9 miles. Merge onto US-21. Go 18.1 miles. Turn left to take the Parkway South ramp. Turn south onto Blue Ridge Parkway. Go 10 miles to Doughton Park Campground. From Raleigh: Take I-40 West. Merge onto US-421 North via EXIT 188 toward Yadkinville/Wilkesboro. Go 28.3 miles. Merge onto I-77 N via EXIT 265A toward Elkin. Go 10.1 miles. Merge onto US-21-BYP N via EXIT 83 on the left toward Roaring Gap/Sparta. Go 2.9 miles. Merge onto US-21. Go 18.1 miles. Turn left to take the Parkway South ramp. Turn south onto Blue Ridge Parkway. Go 10 miles to Doughton Park Campground. GPS devices and mapping programs may lead campers onto steep grades and gravel/dirt country roads unsuitable for RV or trailer travel.
Access is challenging for RV or trailer travel due to GPS navigation inaccuracies, which direct campers onto unsuitable steep and gravel roads.Nearby places
Sparta, NC (approx. distance not explicitly stated)
Mount Airy, NC (exact distance not provided but cited as Andy Griffith’s hometown at milepost 239 of Blue Ridge Parkway).
Nearby supplies
Grocery store in Sparta (specific distance not provided)
Northwest Trading Post near milepost 258 offers supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
98 reviews
Doughton Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews vary widely: positive mentions include cleanliness, quiet surroundings, and proximity to hiking trails. Complaints cover outdated facilities, small sites, and lawn maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 98 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praise includes beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and clean bathrooms. "This is the most beautiful and peaceful campground."
Based on 98 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on small campsites, outdated bathrooms, and lack of maintenance. "Tent pads are small and overgrown."
Based on 98 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing food due to limited nearby options, using site-specific trails, and preparing for cooler temperatures. "Be sure to visit The Bluffs restaurant."
Based on 98 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular for cooler temperatures and hiking. Fall brings scenic foliage. Winter reviews are minimal due to seasonal closures.
Based on 98 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground is neat, clean and well-kept." "Camp sites are shaded under thick trees and provide lantern posts and grills." "No showers are available."
Based on 98 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site A09 praised for privacy but warns of slippery wooden steps. Site B41 lauded as quiet and spacious.
Based on 98 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible walkways and restroom accommodations noted positively. "Accessible sites with hard walkways to the pit and restrooms."
Based on 98 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets allowed and generally appreciated by campers. No specific complaints or issues raised in reviews.
Based on 98 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025