Raccoon Branch Campground
4.3834 reviews6416 Sugar Grove Highway, Sugar Grove, VA 24375, USA
Raccoon Branch Campground
$20.00 - $27.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$27.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for standard non-electric sites to $27 for sites with electric hookups during peak season (May 2 - November 30, 2025). Additional fees may apply for changes or cancellations.
About this campground
Perched in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Raccoon Branch Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning mountain vistas and direct access to pristine hiking trails. Here, where Dickey Creek meets Raccoon Branch, campers discover a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Choose from primitive sites for a back-to-basics experience or electric hookups for modern convenience. Well-maintained flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and a convenient dump station ensure a comfortable stay, while the absence of showers keeps you connected to the authentic camping experience. Towering pines and hardwoods create a natural canopy overhead, while vibrant rhododendrons and rolling grassy meadows paint the landscape in seasonal colors.
Raccoon Branch Campground accommodates RV camping, tent camping, and primitive camping. There are also group camping sites available. Five campsites have electric hookups.
Historical SignificanceRaccoon Branch serves as your gateway to the legendary Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, a vast 200,000-acre wilderness playground that has captivated adventurers for generations. This protected landscape cradles a section of the iconic Appalachian Trail, connecting you to a 2,190-mile footpath that has inspired countless journeys of self-discovery. Here, you're camping in the footsteps of Cherokee hunters, early settlers, and modern-day thru-hikers, all drawn to these ancient mountains.
Weather and SeasonsMountain magic happens year-round at 2,880 feet, where crisp, clean air refreshes the soul and moderate temperatures make every season a camping season. Autumn transforms the campground into a photographer's paradise, with the surrounding hardwood forests erupting in brilliant golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that draw leaf-peepers from far and wide. The blessing of limited cell service and absent internet creates a rare digital detox opportunity, allowing you to truly unplug and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
ElevationAt 2,880 feet above sea level, Raccoon Branch occupies a sweet spot in the sky where mountain breezes naturally air-condition your campsite and expansive vistas reward early risers. This elevation gifts campers with refreshingly cool nights perfect for campfire stories and crisp mornings ideal for hot coffee appreciation. The height advantage also means spectacular sunrises and sunsets paint the surrounding peaks in ethereal light.
Natural Features and SceneryNature showcases her finest work at Raccoon Branch, where emerald meadows stretch between groves of whispering pines and stately hardwoods. Native rhododendrons burst into pink and purple blooms each spring, creating natural gardens throughout the campground. The Appalachian Mountains rise majestically in every direction, their ancient ridgelines telling stories millions of years in the making. Open grassy spaces invite stargazing, frisbee games, and lazy afternoon picnics, while the surrounding forest offers shade, wildlife watching, and that distinctive mountain forest fragrance.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient Appalachian Mountains, Raccoon Branch sits atop some of North America's oldest rock formations, shaped by hundreds of millions of years of geological drama. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area showcases this mountain heritage through diverse ecosystems where northern pines mingle with southern hardwoods, creating a unique botanical crossroads. Massive rhododendron thickets, some centuries old, flourish in the mountain's humid coves, while windswept grassy balds offer glimpses of an ecosystem more common in Canada than Virginia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible, with amenities such as paved roads and spurs. There are accessible toilets as noted in the official description.
Sites SizeMedium-sized sites suitable for 30-40 foot coaches or trailers, with additional space for a towed car or tow truck.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some users noted that sites are close together. "The sites are too close," one user mentioned, while others appreciated the proximity to the creek for a quieter experience.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and proximity to the creek, site #9 is recommended. Sites with electric hookups are closer to the road.
Best CampsitesSites near the creek are popular for their proximity to water and scenic views, such as site #9.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is unspecified.
Groups
Group camping sites are available, though no exact guest or vehicle limits are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes loops with both primitive and electric sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations May 2 - November 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may have walk-up availability, though specifics are unclear.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the arrival date incur a $10 fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers several recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and biking. The Dickey Knob Trail is a highlight for hikers, described as a 5.5-mile out-and-back hike offering spectacular views. "Nice hiking trails as well to Dickey's Knob and beyond," noted one user.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity at the campground, with trails like the Dickey Knob Trail providing moderate difficulty and scenic views. Users have described it as "a moderate trail gently sloped all the way to the top where you'll find what appears to be the foundation of a tower and a few markers."Fishing
Fishing is available at the creek surrounding the campground. "The creek provides a setting for wading and fishing," as noted in the authoritative source.Biking
The campground is suitable for biking, particularly for children. "My girls loved riding their bikes around the campground, it's small and felt very safe," one user stated.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is available, as the campground is surrounded by natural features like pines, hardwoods, and rhododendrons.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated rings. Visitors are encouraged to burn local firewood to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced, though exact times are unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad noise from Highway 16, limited water pressure, and brownish water in bathrooms. Wildlife presence requires caution with food storage.
Active alertsThe campground is currently closed due to facility issues, although reopening dates are anticipated.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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 hospital is Smyth County Community Hospital in Marion (approx. 13 miles). Police and emergency services are in Marion.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 - November 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, including dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Dickey Creek and Raccoon Branch, offering wading and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsClose proximity to Highway 16 results in road noise, brownish water in restrooms, and absence of showers. Occasional electrical issues reported.
HostVolunteer campground hosts provide assistance and regional advice. Multiple reviews highlight their friendly demeanor and helpfulness.
Campground Map
6416 Sugar Grove Highway, Sugar Grove, VA 24375, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-81, take Marion exit 45 onto Virginia State Route 16 South. Follow SR 16 South for approximately 13 miles to the campground on the right.
Located just 11 miles off Interstate 81, making it easily accessible. Roads leading to the campground are paved.Nearby places
Marion (13 miles, approx. 20 minutes), Wytheville (30 miles, approx. 45 minutes), West Jefferson, NC (39 miles, approx. 50 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Marion offers grocery stores, fuel stations, camping supplies, and pharmacies, just 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
34 reviews
Raccoon Branch Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, helpful hosts, and recreational opportunities, but also point out drawbacks such as road noise, brownish water in restrooms, and the lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
1. "Beautiful mountain views." 2. "Great creek to play in." 3. "Helpful and friendly camp hosts." 4. "Nice hiking trails." 5. "Quiet and peaceful."
Based on 34 reviewsCommon Concerns
1. "Brownish water in bathrooms." 2. "Sites too close together." 3. "Road noise from Highway 16." 4. "No cell phone service." 5. "No showers."
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
1. "Bring bottled water for cooking and coffee." 2. "Visit the distillery down the road for excellent whiskey." 3. "Plan hikes to Dickey Knob during the off-leaf season for better views."
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is the most recommended season for visits due to the stunning foliage. Summer reviews also highlight opportunities for creek play and biking.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The stream was pleasant to hear as we fell asleep, and it endlessly entertained the children during our stay." 2. "Campground hosts were not overly friendly but no real problems either." 3. "Nice...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 009 was praised for proximity to the creek but noted as lacking privacy. Site 015 experienced electrical issues: "Electricity fluctuated causing lights to flicker all week."
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features but mention paved roads and accessible toilets.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users have appreciated this feature, noting "dogs are allowed."
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025