Julian Price Campground
4.44343 reviewsMilepost 297 Blue Ridge Parkway
Julian Price Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A variable reservation fee applies: $9 if booked via contact center, $8 via app or online system, and $3 in person.
About this campground
Nestled along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Julian Price Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. This sprawling mountain retreat offers 190 campsites split between 75 reservable spots and 115 first-come-first-served sites, accommodating both tent campers and RV travelers. The jewel of the campground is its proximity to the serene Price Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and countless trails wind through the surrounding forest, creating endless opportunities for wildlife encounters and mountain adventures.
Julian Price Campground accommodates tents, RVs, and primitive campers, with designated areas for group camping. "Loop A is mostly tent sites," while RVs are concentrated in loops like F and E.
Historical SignificanceJulian Price Campground sits as a gateway to Appalachian heritage along the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, America's favorite scenic drive. Just minutes away, the historic Moses Cone Flat Top Manor stands as a testament to the Gilded Age, offering glimpses into the region's past. The Parkway itself serves as a 469-mile ribbon connecting two crown jewels of the National Park system - Shenandoah to the north and the Great Smoky Mountains to the south - making the campground a perfect base for exploring this culturally rich corridor.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Appalachian weather at Julian Price, where each season paints the landscape with its own distinct palette. Summer brings warm days perfect for lake activities, while spring and autumn offer crisp, refreshing temperatures ideal for hiking. Mountain rains sweep through regularly, adding a mystical quality to the forest and filling the air with the scent of pine and earth. Winter occasionally blankets the campground in snow, transforming it into a quiet wonderland where temperatures can swing dramatically from mild afternoons to frosty nights.
ElevationPerched high in the cool embrace of the Appalachian highlands, the campground offers that quintessential mountain camping experience where the air feels lighter and the stars shine brighter. Though specific elevation markers await discovery, visitors immediately sense they've climbed into a different world where mountain breezes carry the whispers of ancient peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering hemlocks and white pines creates a natural sanctuary around Julian Price Campground, while hickories, oaks, and birches add layers to this diverse forest tapestry. Spring arrives in bursts of wildflower color - trilliums, bloodroot, and mountain laurel painting the understory. Come autumn, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise as the deciduous canopy explodes in fiery reds and burnished oranges. At the heart of it all, Price Lake mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, offering peaceful paddling waters and scenic shoreline walks.
Geological RegionJulian Price Campground rests within North Carolina's ancient Appalachian Mountains, where billions of years of geological history have sculpted the distinctive Blue Ridge landscape. The campground embraces the gentle curves of Carolina's rolling hills, surrounded by a rich deciduous forest ecosystem. Here, massive hemlocks and white pines tower above a diverse understory of oak, hickory, and birch, while seasonal wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Each autumn, this geological wonderland becomes nature's grandest theater as the mountains dress in spectacular shades of red, orange, and gold.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, including paved parking and paved roads in some loops. Loop D offers accessible shower facilities.
Sites SizeMixed sizes ranging from small tent pads to larger RV sites. "The RV sites are generally level and easy to access," reported several reviews.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across loops. Many campers noted that sites are closely packed together, reducing privacy. However, some loops (e.g., F loop) are secluded with rhododendron providing natural barriers.
Total Campsites190 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose sites in Loop F. Lakefront sites in Loop A are ideal for scenic views. Avoid sites near bathrooms if noise is a concern.
Best CampsitesSites with lakefront access such as A9, A10, A19, A22, and A25 are praised for their views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 30 nights. Maximum yearly stay: 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are limited to six people unless designated as group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into multiple loops (A, B, C, D, E, F). Loop A is near the lake and tent-only; Loop F offers privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Primitive camping at Johns River Road available May-October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in Availability115 sites are first-come, first-served. Availability must be checked in person at the kiosk.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees. Modifications to reservation dates may cost an additional $10.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Julian Price Campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and more. From serene lake activities to challenging trails, this campground offers diverse options suitable for all experience levels.
Hiking
The campground offers direct access to trails such as Price Lake Trail, Boone Fork, Green Knob, and Tanawha Trails. "Boone Fork Trail might be one of my favorite all-time hikes," remarked a camper. Trails vary in difficulty, ranging from flat loops around the lake to strenuous paths with creek crossings.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Price Lake, with a dock provided. "The fishing was great," noted one camper. However, reports indicate fish populations may have been impacted by dam-related draining.Boating
Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Price Lake. Non-motorized boats are permitted. "The canoeing and kayaking rentals are very convenient and enjoyable," highlighted one user.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, bears, turkeys, and various birds. "We had deer come through camp several times," recounted a camper. Viewing opportunities are abundant along trails and near the lake.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking are popular on Price Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood must comply with USDA regulations.
- Quiet hours are 9 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity in the area. Campers are advised to keep a clean site and store food items securely. Slippery trails during rainfall.
Active alertsTemporary road closures may affect access from Boone. The lake may be drained periodically due to dam repairs.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.8 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
Hospital: Watauga Medical Center in Boone, NC (11 miles away). Police: Boone Police Department (11 miles away). Ranger Station: Sandy Flats Ranger Station (contact number: 828-348-3490).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season details unavailable.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are centralized near the campground entrance, requiring a drive from most loops. "It would be nice to have trash facilities closer to the loops," stated one camper. Recycling bins are available.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Price Lake, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. No swimming allowed.
Common complaintsComplaints include noisy neighbors, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, poorly maintained restrooms, and crowded sites.
HostHosts available on-site during operating season. Reports indicate mixed experiences with staff behavior.
Campground Map
Milepost 297 Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, North Carolina, head east on I-40 E for approximately 20 miles to exit 72 for US-70E. At the top of the exit ramp, continue straight onto US-70 E and drive for 11 miles to the intersection with US-221 N. Turn left (north) onto US-221 N and continue for 21.6 miles. At the sign for the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right onto the connector road. At the stop sign marking the intersection with the Parkway, turn left (north) and drive for approximately 22 miles until you see the Campground Registration Kiosk on the left side of the road. From Boone, North Carolina, head south onto US-321 S and drive for 6.3 miles. At the sign for the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right onto the connector road. At the stop sign marking the intersection with the Parkway, turn left (south) and drive for 4.4 miles until you see the campground on the right. From Blowing Rock, North Carolina, take Main Street until you reach the intersection with US-221 S. Turn south onto US-221 S and drive for 1.6 miles. At the sign for the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right onto the connector road. At the stop sign marking the intersection with the Parkway, turn left (south) and drive approximately 2 miles until you see the campground on the right.
Accessible via paved roads from Asheville, Boone, and Blowing Rock. Roads are well-maintained but may have seasonal closures. Campers should monitor detour updates.Nearby places
Asheville: 74 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Boone: 11 miles, approximately 20 minutes. Blowing Rock: 7 miles, approximately 15 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Blowing Rock, NC (7 miles away) offers dining, shopping, and resupply options. Boone, NC (11 miles away) features larger grocery stores and general camping supplies. Price Lake Boat Rentals sells firewood and limited snacks.
Camper Reviews
4.4
343 reviews
Julian Price Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty, convenient hiking trails, and peaceful lake views as positive features of Julian Price Campground. However, many reviews also point to issues such as restroom cleanliness, crowded campsites, and lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 343 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praised the campground for its beautiful setting, proximity to hiking trails, and lake views. "Absolutely stunning views of the lake," remarked one camper. The hot showers in Loop...
Based on 343 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints included poorly maintained restroom facilities, crowded sites with little privacy, and noisy neighbors during peak times. "Restroom cleanliness fluctuates depending on season and...
Based on 343 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites carefully based on needs for privacy or proximity to amenities. "Bring your own soap," advised one user due to inconsistencies in restroom supplies. Mid-week visits...
Based on 343 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall reviews often highlight the vibrant foliage and crisp weather, while summer reviews favor the cool escape from lower elevations. Winter reviews are sparse, suggesting that the campground may see...
Based on 343 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Boone Fork Trail might be one of my favorite all-time hikes," "We had deer come through camp several times." "Absolutely stunning views of the lake." "Restroom cleanliness fluctuates depending on...
Based on 343 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites such as A9 and A22 are recommended for lakeside views, while reviews of Loop F highlight privacy. "Lakefront spots like A9 are unbeatable," noted one camper.
Based on 343 reviewsAccessibility Features
Loop D offers accessible shower rooms, and paved paths are available in some areas. Reviews highlight the convenience of accessible facilities but express concerns about restroom maintenance.
Based on 343 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is noted as being dog-friendly. "The place has a great view of the mountains and is dog-friendly," shared one camper.
Based on 343 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025