Blue Ridge Parkway Rocky Knob Information Center

For those living in Virginia, the call of the mountains is an undeniable pull, and the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most accessible and stunning natural escapes. Among its many gems, the Blue Ridge Parkway Rocky Knob Campground in Floyd, VA, stands out as a quintessential destination for experiencing the unparalleled beauty of the Appalachian region. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in tranquility, surrounded by towering trees, breathtaking vistas, and a canopy of stars that will leave you awestruck. Whether you're seeking an adventurous hiking expedition or a peaceful retreat from the daily grind, Rocky Knob provides an authentic outdoor experience tailored for Virginia's local explorers.

The Rocky Knob Recreation Area, spanning over 4,000 acres, has been a cherished part of the Blue Ridge Parkway since its early development. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, rustic camping amidst spectacular natural landscapes. Here, the focus is on reconnecting with nature, enjoying the quiet solitude, and appreciating the raw beauty of Virginia’s mountains. It’s a place where memories are made around crackling campfires and under vast, starlit skies, inviting a deep sense of calm and wonder that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Rocky Knob Campground is ideally situated at 1670 Blue Ridge Parkway, Floyd, VA 24091, USA. This address places it conveniently along Milepost 167.1 of the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, a National Scenic Byway renowned for its winding roads and panoramic views. For Virginia residents, this means a picturesque drive through the heart of the mountains, making the journey to the campground an integral part of the adventure.

The campground’s location is approximately 1.8 miles south of the intersection of the Parkway and State Route 8, making it relatively easy to navigate to, even for those unfamiliar with the area. While the Blue Ridge Parkway itself is a rural route, its connection to major state highways ensures that cities and towns across Virginia can access this natural haven. The charming town of Floyd, known for its vibrant music scene and local artisan shops, is just a short drive away, offering opportunities for resupply or a taste of local culture. This balance of secluded natural beauty and proximity to local amenities makes Rocky Knob an excellent choice for a weekend escape or a longer vacation for families and individuals alike from across the Commonwealth.

• Tent and Trailer Campsites: Rocky Knob Campground features 81 tent sites and 28 trailer sites, offering a variety of options for campers. While it is an "old school" RV spot, it accommodates both tent campers and those with RVs, though it's important to note the rustic nature.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and well-maintained flush toilets are available for campers, providing a comfortable level of convenience.
• Water Spigots: Potable water spigots are located throughout the campground, ensuring access to fresh drinking water.
• RV Dump Station: For recreational vehicle users, a dedicated dump station is provided, a key amenity for longer stays.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: Each campsite and the separate picnic area are equipped with picnic tables and grills, perfect for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Firewood for Sale (Seasonal): Firewood is often available for purchase on-site during the operating season, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires.
• Visitor Center (Seasonal): The Rocky Knob Information Center (Milepost 169) offers information, maps, and often hosts ranger-led programs during its operating season (typically late June to end of October).
• Backcountry Camping Permits: For the more adventurous, free permits for primitive backcountry camping in the Rock Castle Gorge are available at the campground office during operating hours.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While reservations are possible for some sites, Rocky Knob also offers first-come, first-served campsites, which can be beneficial for spontaneous trips.

• Spectacular Stargazing: As noted by visitors, being "close to the sky" at Rocky Knob allows for incredible views of the night sky, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the vastness of the cosmos away from city lights.
• Vibrant Fall Foliage: The campground is renowned for its breathtaking display of "beautiful red and yellow leaves of trees on fall," drawing visitors from all over Virginia to witness the stunning autumnal transformation of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Super Quiet Atmosphere: Despite being a well-loved campground, Rocky Knob offers a remarkably quiet environment, especially within its "old growth trees," providing a truly peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind and enjoy the sounds of nature.
• Privacy at Campsites: Many campsites are noted for offering a good degree of privacy, allowing campers to feel secluded and enjoy their own space amidst the natural surroundings.
• Proximity to Rock Castle Gorge Trail: The campground provides direct access to the Rock Castle Gorge National Recreation Trail, a challenging yet rewarding 10.8-mile loop known for its dramatic elevation changes, unique rock formations, and remnants of historical homesteads.
• Access to Other Hiking Trails: In addition to Rock Castle Gorge, visitors can explore other trails like the Black Ridge Trail (3 miles) and the easy Rocky Knob Picnic Area Trail (1 mile), catering to various hiking preferences and skill levels.
• Rustic, Authentic Camping Experience: Rocky Knob is described as an "old school RV spot" that emphasizes a rustic, traditional camping experience, appealing to those who appreciate simplicity and a deeper connection with the natural environment.
• Helpful and Friendly Rangers: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews for the Information Center, general knowledge of National Park Service campgrounds indicates that helpful rangers are often on-site to provide guidance and recommendations, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Near Mabry Mill: Just a short drive down the Parkway (Milepost 176.1), Mabry Mill is a historic and picturesque landmark, offering cultural insights, interpretive demonstrations, and a beautiful setting for photography.

As a campground operated by the National Park Service along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rocky Knob Campground does not typically offer commercial "promotions" in the traditional sense. However, there are significant discounts available that Virginia residents should be aware of. Holders of the Interagency Senior Pass, Interagency Access Pass, Golden Age Pass, or Golden Access Pass are eligible for a 50% discount on the base campsite fee. These passes are available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents who meet specific criteria (e.g., age 62 or older, or with permanent disabilities). It is always recommended to verify eligibility and acquisition details on the official National Park Service website (nps.gov/blri) or recreation.gov. Furthermore, while the campground does not have "special offers," the inherent value of experiencing such a pristine natural environment at affordable federal camping rates is a significant benefit for locals seeking an economical yet enriching getaway. The campground operates seasonally, typically from late May to late October. Planning your visit within this window, and considering weekdays for potentially fewer crowds, can enhance your experience.

Address: 1670 Blue Ridge Parkway, Floyd, VA 24091, USA

Phone: (540) 745-9660 (Blue Ridge Parkway Rocky Knob Information Center)

Mobile Phone: +1 540-745-9660

For campground inquiries during the operating season, you might also find a dedicated campground phone number, often (540) 745-9664, listed on official NPS resources. It's always best to consult the official National Park Service website for the Blue Ridge Parkway (nps.gov/blri) or Recreation.gov for the most current information regarding hours of operation, reservations, and contact details, as these can change seasonally.

For residents of Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway Rocky Knob Campground is an unparalleled local treasure, offering an accessible and deeply immersive natural experience. Its location directly on the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway means that the journey itself is part of the retreat, winding through some of the state's most captivating landscapes. This campground stands out for its serene and quiet atmosphere, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing Virginians to truly disconnect and recharge.

The feedback from previous visitors consistently highlights the exceptional stargazing opportunities and the breathtaking beauty of the fall foliage, making it a compelling destination regardless of the season. Despite its rustic nature, the availability of essential amenities like flush toilets, water spigots, and a dump station for RVs ensures a comfortable stay. The ample privacy at many campsites allows for genuine solitude, fostering a deeper connection with the natural surroundings.

Furthermore, the abundance of world-class hiking trails, including the challenging Rock Castle Gorge Trail, provides ample opportunity for adventure and exploration, catering to various fitness levels. For those seeking cultural enrichment, the close proximity to Mabry Mill offers a glimpse into local history and heritage. Rocky Knob represents an authentic, back-to-basics camping experience that resonates with Virginia’s appreciation for the outdoors. It’s an ideal spot for families to introduce children to the wonders of camping, for friends to gather for an invigorating hike, or for individuals to simply find peace under a vast, star-studded sky. Rocky Knob isn't just a place to visit; it’s a vital part of Virginia’s natural heritage, waiting to be explored and cherished by its local community.