Pound River Campground
04 reviews1182 Pound River Campground Rd, Clintwood, VA 24228
Pound River Campground
$20.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates are $20 for tent-only electric sites and $26 for RV electric sites. These rates do not include discounts, taxes, or additional charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in Virginia's Cumberland Mountains, Pound River Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its peaceful waterfront setting along the pristine shores of John W. Flannagan Reservoir. This meticulously maintained gem offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, where mornings begin with mist rising off the 1,145-acre lake and evenings end with stunning sunsets reflecting off calm waters. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend retreat or a base camp for water adventures, this campground delivers an authentic mountain lake experience.
The campground supports RV and tent camping, with electric hookups available for both.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a testament to American engineering ingenuity, the John W. Flannagan Dam has shaped this landscape since its completion in 1964. Originally constructed to tame the powerful Cranesnest and Pound Rivers and protect downstream communities from flooding, the dam has created an unexpected gift – a stunning recreational paradise that has become a beloved destination for generations of families. Today, the dam stands not just as a flood control structure, but as the centerpiece of a thriving outdoor recreation area.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a vibrant playground for campers and water lovers alike. The campground comes alive during the warm months when gentle breezes sweep across the lake, creating perfect conditions for both relaxation and recreation. While the area primarily welcomes visitors during summer, each day brings its own mountain weather personality – from crisp, dewy mornings to warm afternoons ideal for swimming and boating.
ElevationPerched at 1,400 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during summer months. This elevation creates a sweet spot where mountain breezes keep temperatures comfortable, while the altitude is gentle enough for easy exploration and activities. The elevated setting also rewards visitors with expansive views across the reservoir and surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Virginia's Cumberland Mountains, where dense forests cascade down to meet the sparkling waters of John W. Flannagan Reservoir. The campground serves as your front-row seat to nature's theater, with 40 miles of intricate shoreline creating countless coves and inlets to explore. Ancient hardwoods provide cooling shade throughout the grounds, while the expansive 1,145-acre lake stretches before you like a liquid sapphire set among emerald hills.
Geological RegionThe Cumberland Mountains cradle this exceptional campground in their ancient embrace, offering visitors a chance to experience one of southwest Virginia's most spectacular landscapes. These time-worn peaks, clothed in lush deciduous forests, create a dramatic backdrop for the John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir recreation area. The rolling terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where mountain streams carved valleys that now hold the peaceful waters of the reservoir, creating a perfect harmony between natural beauty and human innovation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible boat ramps, showers, drinking water, and parking are mentioned. Specific details about other accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeVariety of sites accommodating tent and RV camping. No specific measurements for individual site sizes are provided.
Sites PrivacyAccording to a user review, sites are 'not too close together,' offering a level of privacy between campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent campers, the grassy areas by the river come highly recommended due to their picturesque setting.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers are mentioned, but user reviews highlight the grassy areas by the river as excellent spots for tent camping.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 14 nights during a single visit
- 14 nights total within any 30-day rolling period.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSpecific layout details are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23, 2025, to September 2, 2025. First-come, first-served availability begins on June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as campground is not reservable online.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability starts June 21, 2025. No information provided on specific number of sites or fill patterns.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (starting from midnight one day before scheduled check-in) additionally forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding areas offer a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, biking, camping, and picnicking. Nearby attractions such as Breaks Interstate Park expand the range of activities available.
Fishing
The area is described as a 'fisherman's paradise' with secluded coves stocked with bass, walleye, and trout. User review highlights the abundance of fish, including bluegill.Biking
Biking is listed as one of the many activities available in the area. No specific details about bike trails' terrain or difficulty are provided.Boating
The campground features accessible boat ramps, and activities such as canoeing and whitewater rafting are mentioned in the broader recreation area.Winter Activities
No winter activities are indicated for the campground.Water Sports
Opportunities for non-motorized water sports like canoeing are mentioned. Whitewater rafting is also available in the nearby area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies are noted.
Hazards
General hazardsNo specific hazards noted in the sources.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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 hospital and emergency services are likely in Clintwood, VA, approximately 3.3 miles away. Specific facilities not detailed in the source.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 2, 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to remove all trash and debris from their sites upon departure. No further information on recycling or trash facilities is mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the reservoir created by the John W. Flannagan Dam, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews generally praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the site, with one reviewer mentioning that easier access to boat parking at the campsites would be an improvement.
HostThe campground host is noted as being friendly and diligent, with one user stating, "The host keeps the campsite and facilities so clean!"
Campground Map
1182 Pound River Campground Rd, Clintwood, VA 24228
Driving directionsFrom Clintwood Main Street, turn on to Brush Creek Rd., State Rte 631, for 2.2 miles. Turn right onto State Rte 754 for 1.1 miles. Turn right onto Pound River Campground Rd.
Accessible via paved roads. No specific challenges or seasonal closures noted in the available data.Nearby places
Clintwood: Approx. 3.3 miles (10 minutes drive)
Haysi: Approx. 8 miles (15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be sourced from Clintwood, VA, approximately 3.3 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Pound River Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Pound River Campground are highly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, the friendliness of the campground host, and the quiet, spacious sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Key positive aspects include the cleanliness of the facilities ('bathhouse was cleaned daily'), the helpful and friendly host ('the host is really nice'), and the quality of the fishing opportunities...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
One user mentioned a need for 'easier access to boat parking at the campsites.'
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
A user suggested the campground as a 'great find' for tent camping by the river, with 'great grass for a tent.'
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not specifically address seasonal changes, but the campground appears to be well-suited for summer activities such as fishing and camping.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'An absolute incredible place! The host keeps the campsite and facilities so clean!' (Matt McGovern)
2. 'Very nice and quiet. Not too close together and the host is really nice.' (Bradley Bond)...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specify particular site numbers, but one review highlights the overall spaciousness of the sites ('not too close together').
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities are provided, though the campground does mention accessible facilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews or information on pet policies are available.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025