Craig Creek Recreation Area
4.5010 reviews110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060-6648, USA
Craig Creek Recreation Area
$35.00 - $35.00 / 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$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$35 per night for group standard area (nonelectric) during peak seasons. Reservation fees ($8-$9) and cancellation fees ($10) may apply.
About this campground
Escape to Craig Creek Recreation Area, where simplicity meets wilderness in a peaceful open meadow embraced by towering National Forest lands. This back-to-basics group camping haven invites you to gather around a crackling fire ring under star-filled skies, with only the essentials at hand—a sturdy picnic table for shared meals and a convenient vault toilet. Perfect for those seeking an authentic tent camping experience, this electricity-free sanctuary requires you to pack your own water and leave modern distractions behind, offering instead the rare gift of genuine connection with nature and companions.
Craig Creek Recreation Area is designed for group tent camping, with no facilities for RVs, individual tents, or luxury camping options.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle embrace of crisp mountain air during peak camping season, where comfortable days hover around 44°F before cooling to refreshing 28°F nights—perfect for cozy sleeping bags and morning coffee by the fire. The region's characteristically dry climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies with minimal rain or snow interruptions, creating ideal conditions for stargazing and outdoor adventures throughout your stay.
ElevationElevation details not specified.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a serene narrow valley where ancient shade trees stand as gentle giants, Craig Creek Recreation Area offers a natural amphitheater of tranquility. The melodic whispers of nearby Craig Creek provide a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience, while the surrounding National Forest creates a protective embrace of wilderness. Majestic trees frame the open camping field, their leafy canopies offering dappled shade during sunny afternoons and serving as nature's own cathedral ceiling.
Geological RegionTucked into an intimate valley corridor carved by time and water, this hidden gem rests where rolling forest ridges converge to create a naturally sheltered camping oasis. The open field spreads like a welcome mat beneath protective slopes, while mature shade trees along the edges tell stories of decades past, their roots anchored deep in the valley's rich earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details on accessibility features have been provided.
Sites SizeThe camping field is described as large and open, suitable for group tent camping.
Sites PrivacyThe field offers minimal privacy as it is an open area, but the recreation area is described as remote and secluded.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSuitable for large groups seeking privacy. Individual campers may find the location too remote. No hookups or potable water.
Best CampsitesGroup campsite 01 is the only campsite available, noted as spacious and suitable for larger groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available from 10:00 PM.
Check-out
Visitors must vacate by midnight on last reserved day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size is 30 people.
Groups
The campground can accommodate groups of up to 30 people. "There is an entrance gate," and the area features a group fire ring, vault toilet, and one picnic table. The field is exclusively for tent camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group campsite within an open field surrounded by shade trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1, 2025 to November 1, 2025 and April 3, 2026 to October 25, 2026. Closed from November 1 to April 3 during off-season periods.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov's website, mobile app, or contact center. Fees vary based on booking method.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to mandatory reservations for group camping.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur an additional charge equivalent to the first night's fee. Changes to reservations may also incur a $10 fee. No refunds for no-shows.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation area offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing. A small swimming hole and canoe access to the creek add to the appeal. The creek is stocked with trout, making it a desirable spot for anglers. Additionally, a two-mile loop trail is available for hikers.
Hiking
"A two-mile loop trail is located within the recreation area." Users have noted that the trail "hasn't been cleaned in years" with "trees and bushes everywhere," suggesting maintenance issues.Fishing
The creek is stocked with trout, providing good fishing opportunities. A valid Virginia fishing license, including a national forest stamp, is required.Swimming
A small swimming hole is located within the recreation area, offering a refreshing summer activity.Boating
Canoes may access the creek, and there is a nearby canoe put-in area for launching upstream.Water Sports
Canoeing is explicitly mentioned as a water activity available at the site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires must be contained within designated fire rings and completely extinguished before departure.
- Quiet hours are Amplified music is strictly prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsRemote location with limited cell service raises security concerns for individual campers. Muddy conditions may occur during heavy rain.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 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
Closest emergency services are likely in New Castle, VA, approximately 20 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to November 1 each year.
Trash and recycling"The area must be trash-free upon departure," indicating a pack-in, pack-out policy. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCraig Creek offers a small swimming hole, trout fishing opportunities, and canoe access.
Common complaintsReviews mention limited cell service, potential trail maintenance issues, and the remote nature of the campground being unsuitable for small groups.
HostNo camp host is available. Forest Service staff occasionally visit for maintenance and condition checks.
Campground Map
110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA, 24060-6648, USA
Driving directionsFrom New Castle: Follow US 615 east for 11 miles to SR 817 in Oriskany. Turn right on SR 817, go 1/2 mile then take right at sign for Craig Creek. Continue straight. Veer right for the camping area gate, while the left fork leads to the day use parking area.
Access requires navigating a narrow one-lane road, which could be challenging for larger vehicles. Cell phone service is typically unavailable.Nearby places
New Castle, VA (20 minutes away
approximately 11 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including fuel and groceries, are available in New Castle, VA, 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
10 reviews
Craig Creek Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the seclusion, privacy, and natural beauty of Craig Creek Recreation Area. While many appreciate the rustic and spacious campsite, others express concerns about the lack of on-site staff and cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the privacy, spaciousness, and natural setting. One review praises it as "the best campsite in VA," while others commend it for group camping and fishing opportunities.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of cell phone service, limited facilities (e.g., no potable water or electricity), and poorly maintained hiking trails. One user noted it felt unsafe due to its...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring drinking water and prepare for a remote and secluded experience. The site is ideal for group gatherings but may feel too isolated for solo or small-party campers. Avoid the hiking trail unless...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is particularly well-regarded in summer, with users enjoying the swimming hole and canoeing. Fall offers scenic foliage. Winter and spring activities are less documented.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is the best campsite in VA!" (Michael R.) "Enjoyed the privacy and solitude." (Regina S.) "Great for a family reunion type weekend." (Regina S.) "The hiking trail needs lots of work." (Kevin M.)
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 01 is frequently mentioned. Positive remarks include its suitability for groups and easy water access. However, some users note its remoteness and potential safety concerns due to its isolation.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features were found.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One user mentioned enjoying the area with their "hounds," suggesting it is pet-friendly, though official policies are not stated.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025