Gala River Front Campground

Virginia's natural landscapes are a constant invitation to adventure, from the towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene flow of its historic rivers. For those who yearn for the peace and quiet of a truly private camping experience, particularly by the water, the search often leads to hidden gems. One such gem is the Gala River Front Campground, nestled along the banks of the mighty James River in Eagle Rock. This campground offers a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility, making it a prime destination for Virginians looking to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Gala River Front Campground distinguishes itself by providing a genuinely private and intimate camping experience. Unlike larger, more bustling campgrounds, Gala River Front emphasizes seclusion, with sites designed to offer campers ample space and direct access to the river. It’s ideal for those who value tranquility and the soothing sounds of nature over extensive amenities. The campground caters to both paddle-in and drive-in campers, making it versatile for various outdoor pursuits, whether you’re arriving by car with your gear or pulling up to your site directly from the river.

Guests consistently praise the privacy of the campsites, noting that even when other campers are present, the layout ensures a feeling of being alone with nature. Reviews highlight the well-maintained nature of the sites, often featuring essentials like fire pits and picnic tables. The presence of clean portable toilets and readily available firewood adds to the convenience, ensuring a comfortable primitive camping experience. While it truly offers a secluded escape, it’s not entirely off-grid, with a local convenience store within easy reach for last-minute necessities. It's a place where you can truly unwind, with the gentle sounds of the river as your soundtrack, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Virginia's outdoors.

Gala River Front Campground is located at 80 Thompson Dr, Eagle Rock, VA 24085, USA. This address places it strategically in Botetourt County, a region renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly along the James River. The campground is situated approximately half a mile from the Gala boat landing, just off State Route 220, making it highly accessible for both road and river travelers.

For those driving, the campground is about a 25-minute drive from the Buchanan canoe livery location, and easily reachable from major access routes like I-81. From Roanoke, you can take Interstate 81 North to Exit 162, turn right onto Route 11 North, drive about 5 miles to the James River Bridge at Lowe Street, then take a left at Burger King. The exact directions to the campground itself from there would lead you to 80 Thompson Drive. It's important to note for drive-in campers that access to the campground by road includes passing underneath a railroad bridge that restricts vehicles longer than 25 feet, meaning it may not be suitable for very large RVs or trailers.

However, the beauty of Gala River Front Campground lies in its dual accessibility. It’s perfectly situated for paddlers on the James River, about 25 miles upstream of the Buchanan canoe livery near river mile marker 51. This allows for seamless paddle-in camping, where you can literally paddle right up to your secluded riverside spot. While the presence of active CSX train tracks a few hundred feet from the site means trains can be loud and run 24/7, many campers find that the tranquil riverfront setting outweighs this minor drawback, or they simply aren't bothered by the distant sounds of the trains. The gated access to the campground also adds a layer of security, providing peace of mind during your stay.

• Numbered Campsites: The campground features 11 clearly numbered campsites, each providing its own space and identity.
• Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a fire ring, perfect for campfires, cooking, and warmth.
• Picnic Tables: Each site includes a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meals and outdoor activities.
• Parking Area: Designated parking areas are available for drive-in campers at each site.
• Level Tent Pads: Campsites offer level tent pads, ensuring a comfortable and easy setup for tent campers.
• Clean Portable Toilets (Porta-potties): Portable toilets are conveniently located within the campground and are noted for being clean and well-maintained.
• Dumpster: A dumpster is available on-site for trash disposal, promoting a clean environment.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is available for purchase at the campground, making it easy to enjoy a campfire without bringing your own.
• Gated Access: The campground features gated access, providing an added layer of security for campers.
• River Access: Direct access to the James River for paddling, fishing, and water activities.
• Glamping Options: For a more luxurious experience, the campground offers two wall tents for rent as part of a glamping package.

• Highly Private Sites: The standout feature is the exceptional privacy of each campsite, allowing for a secluded and intimate camping experience. Site 1 is noted for its seclusion, while Site 2 offers more room and an elevated river view.
• Riverside Location: Being right on the James River, campers have direct access to the water for various activities and enjoy beautiful river views.
• Paddle-in & Drive-in Access: The versatility of accommodating both paddle-in and drive-in campers makes it accessible to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
• Well-Maintained and Clean: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the sites and facilities, including the porta-potties which are regularly serviced.
• Firewood Availability: The convenience of being able to purchase cheap firewood directly at the campground is a significant bonus.
• Gated Security: The gated entrance provides an enhanced sense of security for guests and their belongings.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy picturesque views of the James River and the surrounding natural beauty from your campsite.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite the nearby train tracks, many campers find the overall ambiance to be very quiet and peaceful, especially compared to more commercial campgrounds.
• Proximity to James River Float Trips: Its location makes it an ideal stopover or base camp for multi-day float trips on the James River.

Gala River Front Campground offers clear and straightforward pricing. The nightly cost per site is $36.00 for up to four campers, which includes 9.3% sales and occupancy tax. For each additional guest beyond four, there is an extra charge of $9.00. Children under the age of 5 are typically not included in the billing, making it more family-friendly for those with very young children.

For those interested in a glamping experience, the two available wall tents can be rented, with rates starting at $12 per person per night plus tax, subject to the minimum camping fee of $36. Advanced reservations are required for all sites and can preferably be made online. Alternatively, you can call their main store number (540-261-7334) during normal business hours to book. It’s always a good idea to check their website or call directly for the most current information on pricing, any potential package deals, or seasonal promotions, especially for larger groups or longer stays.

To book your secluded riverside camping experience or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

Address: 80 Thompson Dr, Eagle Rock, VA 24085, USA

Phone: (540) 254-8012 (This number is associated with canoe trip operations, suggesting it's the primary contact for campground information and bookings.)

For Virginians, Gala River Front Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an accessible and authentic escape into the heart of the state's natural beauty. Its prime location in Eagle Rock offers a manageable drive from many parts of Virginia, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer, leisurely stays. The unique blend of drive-in and paddle-in access caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're loading up the car for a traditional camping trip or embarking on an exciting canoe adventure down the James River.

What truly makes this campground suitable for locals is its emphasis on privacy and tranquility. In a world often filled with noise and crowds, Gala River Front provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the river and the rustling leaves. The well-maintained sites, complete with fire pits and picnic tables, ensure a comfortable experience, while the clean porta-potties and available firewood add essential conveniences to primitive camping. The secure gated access also offers peace of mind.

Even with the nearby train tracks, the overall consensus from visitors confirms a quiet and peaceful atmosphere that allows for true relaxation. For families, solo adventurers, or groups of friends looking to explore the James River, fish, or simply enjoy a campfire under the stars in a secluded setting, Gala River Front Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. It’s a place that allows Virginia residents to truly appreciate the natural treasures of their own state, offering a convenient and memorable riverside retreat whenever the call of the wild beckons.