North Creek
4.6730 reviewsnull
North Creek
$12.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
User reviews indicate fees for single sites are $12-$16 per night, $30 for double sites. Discounts are available for senior pass holders ($6 per site).
About this campground
Tucked away in nature's embrace, North Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, offering intimate wooded campsites where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Here, simplicity reigns supreme – basic amenities meet genuine tranquility, creating an ideal retreat for those who prefer their camping experiences unfiltered and unhurried.
North Creek Campground offers primitive camping options, including sites suitable for both tents and small RVs. It does not offer modern or luxurious accommodations.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms North Creek into a crystalline wonderland, where temperatures plunge into the 'very cold' range and occasional snowfall dusts the forest floor. These frosty months offer a stark beauty and solitude that winter camping enthusiasts cherish, though visitors should come prepared with appropriate cold-weather gear and a spirit of adventure.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImagine falling asleep to the soothing symphony of a mountain stream – at North Creek, this dream becomes reality. Towering trees create a natural cathedral above carefully positioned campsites, many of which nestle right against the babbling creek. Previous visitors rave about the mesmerizing sound of running water that serves as nature's white noise machine, creating an atmosphere of pure serenity that follows you from sunrise to starlight.
Geological RegionNorth Creek Campground claims its place within the majestic George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, where ancient mountains rise to meet endless sky. This remarkable landscape weaves together dense woodlands, pristine creeks, and rolling mountainous terrain – a testament to the Appalachian region's timeless beauty. Here, the forest's rich ecosystem thrives undisturbed, offering campers a front-row seat to one of Virginia's most treasured natural sanctuaries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is relatively level, and one user mentioned that it was suitable for a walker, implying moderate accessibility.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with extra-long picnic tables and level lots suitable for tents or small RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are comfortably spaced apart, offering privacy. Many sites back up to a mountain stream.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites at the 'back end of the loop are near the creek, with some having little paths to the creek.' Swimming holes are available behind site 9.
Best CampsitesCreek-side campsites provide a tranquil camping experience ('Our site was beside the creek so we were mesmerized by its babbling').
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLoop layout with sites positioned along edges and creek sides ('A big loop with spots all around edges').
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app using Scan and Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis, as highlighted in authoritative content and user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
North Creek Campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering creek-side relaxation, fishing, nature immersion, and swimming in natural pools.
Hiking
There are nearby hiking opportunities, although specific trails are not detailed in the reviews.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity, especially during trout stocking season. One user highlighted that the area is great for fishing when trout are being stocked.Swimming
Some campsites have swim holes nearby, and one user mentioned a swimming hole behind site 9 that is approximately 6'2" deep.Wildlife viewing
Nature and wildlife are integral to the setting, with wooded areas and a creek enhancing the experience. Specific wildlife sightings are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the campground is described as accessible year-round.Water Sports
Limited to natural swimming and creek-side relaxation.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No explicit fire policies mentioned; fire pits are available on-site ('Metal drum fire pits with rack').
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a concern ('Be prepared to pack up your stuff at night so as not to attract bears').
Active alertsDump site is closed as per user review ('Dump site closed').
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Guests are encouraged to pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresSites are directly adjacent to a creek for running water and swimming holes ('Great place to camp peace and quiet and running water behind your tent').
Common complaintsFire pits/grill areas are not well-maintained ('They haven't been maintaining the fire pits / grill areas on each site').
HostHosts are well-regarded for their cleanliness and assistance ('Hosts are very friendly and informative', 'The camp hosts are doing a tremendous job').
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom I-81: Take exit 168 (Arcadia). Follow VA 614 (Jennings Creek Road) for 2.9 miles through Arcadia to FS 59 (North Creek Road). Turn left on FS 59. The campground is 2.4 miles ahead on your right.
The campground is located 2.4 miles off FS 59 (North Creek Road). It is accessible from I-81 via exit 168 (Arcadia) and VA 614 (Jennings Creek Road). While the roads to the campground are mentioned in the directions, user reviews suggest caution for large campers ('Pretty place don't attempt to take a 40-foot camper in').Nearby places
Roanoke City: 30 minutes away.
Nearby supplies
Gas station with some provisions is nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.7
30 reviews
North Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
North Creek Campground has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its pristine natural setting, cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and peaceful atmosphere. The lack of modern amenities is appreciated by visitors seeking a rustic experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of the campground, the well-maintained facilities, the friendly and helpful camp hosts, the serene setting, and the convenience of being close to a...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include a lack of cell service, the absence of modern amenities such as flush toilets and showers, and occasional maintenance issues with fire pits. The dump station is also noted...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper and be prepared for no cell service. Campsites near the creek offer the best experience. Follow park rules to avoid attracting bears.
Based on 30 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is actively used year-round, with trout fishing being a seasonal highlight. Summer is popular for creek-side activities, while fall offers beautiful foliage.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This place is pure fantastic. Extremely clean." "Loved the sound of the running water in the background." "Nice swimming hole behind site 9 that's about 6'2" deep." "Great place to camp peace and...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is noted for having a good swimming hole. Creek-side sites are favored for their tranquility and access to the water.
Based on 30 reviewsAccessibility Features
One user mentioned the campground was level enough for a walker, suggesting moderate accessibility.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, and the natural setting makes it enjoyable for camping with pets.
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025