Boley Field Group Campground
4.3813 reviews4145 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24060
Boley Field Group Campground
$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
Group Standard Area Nonelectric site costs $35 per night during peak seasons. Additional service fees for reservations include $8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in-person.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Virginia's mountain country, Boley Field Group Campground beckons adventure seekers with its sprawling open meadow that can accommodate up to 50 fellow outdoor enthusiasts. This back-to-basics retreat strips away the distractions of modern life, offering instead the simple pleasures of starlit nights, campfire stories, and the camaraderie that only comes from gathering in nature's embrace. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or outdoor wedding, this rustic haven provides the perfect canvas for creating unforgettable memories.
Boley Field Group Campground is designed for group camping. It features a large open field suitable for tents and group activities, with a capacity of up to 50 people.
Historical SignificanceJust a stone's throw from the vibrant college town of Blacksburg, home to the prestigious Virginia Tech, Boley Field serves as a gateway between academic innovation and timeless Appalachian traditions. While the campground itself may not boast ancient ruins or battlefields, it sits within a region steeped in pioneer heritage and mountain culture. Visitors often combine their camping experience with explorations of Blacksburg's thriving arts scene, local craft breweries, and the iconic Virginia Tech campus, creating a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April's first wildflowers to October's golden farewell, Boley Field welcomes campers during Virginia's most glorious months. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking and creek exploration, while evening temperatures cool just enough for comfortable sleeping under the stars. Though occasional rain showers may sweep through the valley, they only add to the adventure and leave behind that fresh, earthy scent that makes morning coffee taste even better. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest transforms into a tapestry of reds and golds before winter closes the curtain on camping season.
ElevationTucked into the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the campground offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain air meets valley comfort, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture this: a serene valley where Poverty Creek whispers ancient stories as it winds past your campsite, while towering trees create a natural cathedral overhead. The campground rests in nature's perfect amphitheater, cradled between the gentle slopes of Brush Mountain and embraced by a mature forest that filters sunlight into dancing patterns throughout the day. Morning mists rise from the creek, afternoon shade provides respite from summer heat, and evening brings a symphony of crickets and owls that serves as nature's lullaby.
Geological RegionBoley Field occupies a special niche in Appalachian geography, where Brush Mountain's ancient ridges meet the intimate valley carved by Poverty Creek over countless millennia. This narrow valley creates a unique microclimate, sheltered by forested slopes that have witnessed the slow dance of geological time. The shaded forest canopy overhead tells the story of succession and renewal, while the creek below continues its patient work of shaping the landscape, one pebble at a time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not specifically mention ADA-compliant features. However, reviewers noted that access to the vault toilet and the field was relatively straightforward.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of a large open field suitable for group camping. It can accommodate groups of up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers some level of privacy being in a secluded field, but connected trails can lead to occasional visitors passing through.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for groups seeking rustic camping with minimal amenities. High-clearance vehicles are necessary for access.
Best CampsitesSingle group campsite available; the field is spacious and well-maintained.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time listed.
Check-out
No specific time listed.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people.
Groups
The site can accommodate up to 50 people and includes amenities like picnic tables, a group fire ring, and a grill. It is ideal for group gatherings and events.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle large open field enclosed by a gate. Adjacent to the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1st to November 1st for reservations in 2025, and April 3rd to October 25th in 2026. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required for all stays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and any change fees. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival for group sites) will 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers opportunities for group activities and recreation, including access to Poverty Creek for fishing and splashing, proximity to a 17-mile trail system for hiking and biking, and a large fire ring for gatherings. Wildlife viewing opportunities are also noted.
Hiking
The 17-mile Poverty Creek Trail System can be accessed directly from the campground. These trails are suitable for both hikers and mountain bikers.Fishing
Poverty Creek is stocked with trout, making it a good spot for fishing. A valid Virginia license with a national forest stamp is required.Biking
The 17-mile Poverty Creek Trail System accommodates mountain biking, with trails varying in difficulty and terrain.Wildlife viewing
Reviewers noted encounters with wildlife, adding to the outdoor experience. One reviewer stated, 'You will see them here.'Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, are mentioned or supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires must be contained within the provided fire ring and extinguished before departure.
- Quiet hours are Amplified music is prohibited, but no specific quiet hours are listed.
Hazards
General hazardsA creek crossing is required to access the site, which may pose a challenge during heavy rains. The campground is located in a floodplain, with potential flash flood risks. Monitor weather conditions closely.
Active alertsCurrently accepting comments on 2023 Recreation Fee Proposals until October 31, 2023. No other specific alerts.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Eastern Divide Ranger District office - (540) 552-4641. Emergency personnel are not stationed directly at the campground; nearest resources are in Blacksburg.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01, 2025 - November 01, 2025; April 03, 2026 - October 25, 2026.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Visitors must pack out all trash when they leave.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Poverty Creek, which is stocked with trout for fishing and ideal for splashing in its cool waters.
Common complaintsComplaints include difficulty accessing the site due to the rough dirt road, creek crossing, and narrow gate. Some trash was noted in fire rings. Nails embedded in the creek mud were reported.
HostNo on-site staff or hosts. Forest Service personnel visit intermittently for maintenance.
Campground Map
4145 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24060
Driving directionsFrom Blacksburg (junction of North Main Street and US 460) follow US 460 west for 3 miles. Turn left on FS 708 at the Giles County line. Go 4.5 miles. Boley Field gate is on the left.
The road to the camping area is unpaved and rough, with a creek crossing required to access the field. Vehicles towing trailers may struggle due to steep dips at the crossing. High clearance SUVs are advised for crossing the creek. Alternate routes may provide slightly easier access.Nearby places
Blacksburg, VA - 20 minutes away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from Blacksburg, VA, approximately 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
13 reviews
Boley Field Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Boley Field Group Campground is positively reviewed by visitors for its seclusion, group-friendly layout, proximity to trails, and the rustic camping experience. Some issues like the challenging road access, the lack of water, and the absence of trash collection are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the large open field for group camping, the well-maintained vault toilet, spacious and clean facilities, and proximity to the Poverty Creek Trail System. Many reviewers highlighted...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some visitors mentioned the rough and narrow entry road, especially for larger vehicles. Issues like nails in the creek area, a difficult-to-use gate lock, and the lack of amenities such as water and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a magnet to pick up nails near the creek. Ensure you have the gate code before arriving and avoid arriving after dark due to the challenging gate lock. Pack all necessities, including water, as...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular during its operating season (April to October). Visitors enjoy the warm weather and the opportunity to camp in the picturesque valley. Rainy conditions, however, were noted...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Fantastic campground. The proximity to trails and the Poverty Creek waterway was perfect!' - Harmony Hollow Apiaries
2. 'The vault toilet was clean and roomy. The field was mowed. The large fire...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviewers consistently praised the group camping experience at Boley Field. Specific site reviews highlight challenges with the entry road and gate lock but commend the maintenance of the field and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were provided, though the vault toilet was described as accessible and well-maintained.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences with pets were found in the reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025