Chestnut Hollow Campground

For Virginia residents seeking a truly refreshing and scenic escape into nature, Chestnut Hollow Campground offers an idyllic retreat nestled within the stunning Grayson Highlands State Park in Mouth of Wilson, VA. This beautiful and peaceful campground provides a direct connection to the breathtaking landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, promising a memorable outdoor experience that feels both invigorating and serene. If you've been longing for cool mountain air, expansive views, and a chance to truly unwind amidst Virginia's natural beauty, Chestnut Hollow is a destination worth exploring.

Chestnut Hollow Campground is celebrated by visitors for its clean facilities and the exceptional service provided by its camp hosts. While it offers a traditional camping experience, it doesn't skimp on essential comforts. Imagine waking up to invigorating mountain air, spending your days exploring scenic trails, and evenings gathered around a campfire under a vast, star-filled sky. The higher elevation ensures cooler temperatures, making it a perfect respite during warmer months, as noted by visitors who found it "a little chilly on our rides in JUNE" – a welcome relief for many.

Whether you're planning a family camping trip, a solo hiking adventure, or a peaceful getaway with friends, Chestnut Hollow provides a welcoming environment. While some sites might offer a more intimate setting, the overall charm and natural beauty of the surrounding Grayson Highlands make it a highly desirable location for those looking to immerse themselves in Virginia's remarkable outdoors. Let's delve deeper into what makes Chestnut Hollow Campground a top choice for your next local mountain adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Chestnut Hollow Campground is situated within the expansive and highly regarded Grayson Highlands State Park, located at MOUTH WILSON, VA 24363, USA. This placement in the southwestern part of Virginia positions it amidst some of the highest and most scenic terrain in the state, offering an unparalleled mountain camping experience.

Grayson Highlands State Park is renowned for its high-elevation bald areas, alpine-like appearance, and proximity to Virginia's highest peak, Mount Rogers. The campground’s location ensures campers benefit from cooler temperatures, even in summer, making it a desirable escape from the heat found in other parts of Virginia. While the journey to a mountain retreat might involve winding roads, access to Grayson Highlands State Park is generally manageable for vehicles, including RVs. Once inside the park, Chestnut Hollow Campground is well-signposted.

The natural setting provides a sense of being "out of the way," as one reviewer mentioned, which contributes to its peaceful atmosphere. Despite this feeling of seclusion, it's part of a well-established state park system, meaning essential services and clear directions are available. Its elevation and surrounding wilderness offer immediate access to an extensive network of hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail, making it a perfect basecamp for exploration.

Services Offered

Chestnut Hollow Campground focuses on providing essential and well-maintained services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. The emphasis is on cleanliness and functionality, allowing campers to fully appreciate the natural environment.

• Campsites for Various Needs: The campground offers a variety of campsites, including those suitable for tents and RVs. Some sites may include electric and water hookups, providing convenience for RV campers.
• Clean Bathrooms: Visitors consistently praise the "clean bathrooms," a crucial amenity for any camping trip, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic experience.
• Quality Stalls (for Equestrian Campers): For those bringing horses, the campground features quality stalls. While some are concrete, the provision of "unlimited shavings" helps ensure horse comfort. It's noted that wide covered stalls are preferred over smaller, uncovered ones.
• Water Access: Potable water is available for campers.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is typically equipped with a fire ring, often with a cooking grate, and a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Camp Hosts: The presence of "amazing" camp hosts, like Rick and Allen mentioned in a review, significantly enhances the camping experience through their helpfulness and hospitality.
• Dump Station: An RV dump station is usually available within state park campgrounds for the convenience of self-contained units.
• Firewood and Ice: Often available for purchase at the park office or a central location within the park.

Features / Highlights

Chestnut Hollow Campground and its setting within Grayson Highlands State Park offer numerous features and highlights that draw campers from across Virginia and beyond:

• Beautiful and Peaceful Setting: The campground is consistently described as "beautiful and peaceful," providing a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.
• Unbeatable Mountain Weather: The high elevation ensures cooler temperatures, making it an "unbeatable" climate for outdoor activities, even during warmer months. This is a significant draw for Virginians looking to escape summer heat.
• Stunning Views: Being part of Grayson Highlands, the campground is surrounded by "beautiful views" of the distinctive alpine-like landscapes, expansive balds, and rolling mountains.
• Wild Ponies: A major highlight of Grayson Highlands State Park is the presence of wild ponies roaming freely. Campers at Chestnut Hollow have the unique opportunity to encounter these iconic animals.
• Exceptional Camp Hosts: The positive impact of "amazing" camp hosts like Rick and Allen, who provide excellent service and enhance the overall experience, is a significant highlight.
• Access to World-Class Hiking: The park offers direct access to a vast network of trails, including connections to the legendary Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, catering to hikers of all skill levels.
• Equestrian Friendly: With quality stalls and accommodations for horses, it’s an excellent destination for horse owners who wish to camp and ride.
• Proximity to Mount Rogers: As the highest peak in Virginia, Mount Rogers is a significant draw for adventurers, and the campground provides a convenient base for exploring this iconic landmark.
• Seasonal Beauty: The park offers stunning scenery year-round, from vibrant spring blooms and cool summer air to spectacular fall foliage.

Promotions or Special Offers

Specific, unique promotions for Chestnut Hollow Campground are typically not advertised independently, as it is part of the Virginia State Parks system. However, Virginia State Parks often run various system-wide promotions or provide discounts for certain groups, such as seniors, military personnel, or through annual park passes. It is highly recommended that interested campers visit the official Virginia State Parks website or contact Grayson Highlands State Park directly to inquire about any current seasonal rates, special packages, or available discounts. Given the popularity of Grayson Highlands, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall, booking well in advance is always advised to secure your preferred dates and site type.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries about availability, or to learn more about Chestnut Hollow Campground and Grayson Highlands State Park, you can utilize the following contact information:

Address: MOUTH WILSON, VA 24363, USA (The general park address for Grayson Highlands State Park is 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363).

Grayson Highlands State Park Office Phone: (276) 579-7092

Virginia State Parks Reservations: 1-800-933-PARK (7275)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on site availability, specific amenities, and reservation procedures, contacting the Virginia State Parks reservation line or visiting their official website is the most reliable method. Due to the campground's desirable location and amenities, particularly during peak seasons, making reservations well in advance is highly recommended to ensure your spot.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Virginia, Chestnut Hollow Campground within Grayson Highlands State Park offers an easily accessible and profoundly rewarding outdoor escape. Its location in the highest reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains means that Virginians don't have to travel far to experience genuinely spectacular alpine-like scenery, refreshing mountain air, and unique wildlife encounters with the famous wild ponies.

The campground's commitment to clean facilities and the outstanding service provided by its camp hosts ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it suitable for all levels of campers, from those seeking a rugged adventure to families looking for a peaceful retreat. While some sites might be closer together, the overall beauty and numerous activities available within the park – from extensive hiking trails to equestrian opportunities – more than compensate, offering a rich and engaging experience.

Choosing Chestnut Hollow Campground is an excellent way for locals to support their state parks, enjoy the unparalleled natural resources of Virginia, and create lasting memories in a beautiful and peaceful setting that truly feels like a breath of fresh air. It's a testament to the diverse and incredible outdoor opportunities available right in their backyard.