Paddlers Creekside Campground

For Virginians seeking a genuine escape into nature, where the gentle sounds of a flowing creek replace city noise and the stars shine brightly, Paddlers Creekside Campground in Draper offers an ideal retreat. This charming, primitive tent campground is designed for those who truly appreciate the simplicity and beauty of outdoor living, with a strong focus on connecting with the natural environment. It’s a perfect spot for families, solo adventurers, and even those with furry companions looking for a peaceful and engaging camping experience in Southwest Virginia.

Paddlers Creekside Campground has quickly become a beloved destination among its visitors, consistently earning high praise for its tranquil setting and the welcoming nature of its hosts. Guests rave about the "charming spot by the creek," emphasizing the clean environment and the thoughtfulness of the owners. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking right from your campsite, or simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities for primitive camping, and genuine hospitality makes Paddlers Creekside Campground a standout choice for Virginians looking to unwind and create lasting outdoor memories.

Paddlers Creekside Campground is beautifully situated at 1683 Reed Creek Dr, Draper, VA 24324, USA. This address places it in Draper, a serene community within Wythe County, Virginia. The campground’s name itself hints at its prime location: right on the banks of Reed Creek, which flows into the historic New River. This provides campers with immediate access to a picturesque waterway, perfect for various water-based activities.

While offering a feeling of seclusion and natural immersion, Paddlers Creekside Campground remains reasonably accessible for Virginians. Draper is located not far from major routes, including Interstate 81, allowing for a relatively straightforward drive from various parts of the Commonwealth. The rural setting contributes to the peaceful ambiance that visitors cherish. However, it is important for prospective campers to note that while parking is available, some campsites require a "very short walk" from the parking area, though carts are provided to assist with gear. This design choice enhances the primitive feel and minimizes vehicle traffic directly at the creek-side sites. Overall, its location provides a perfect balance of tranquil natural beauty with practical accessibility for those seeking an authentic outdoor escape in Southwest Virginia.

Paddlers Creekside Campground specializes in primitive tent camping, but it thoughtfully provides amenities to enhance comfort and convenience for its guests, focusing on the core elements of an authentic outdoor experience.

• Primitive Tent Camping: The campground offers dedicated tent sites, many of which are flat, grassy spaces located directly on the banks of Reed Creek. These sites are designed for traditional tent camping, providing a close connection to nature.

• Campsite Features: Each campsite includes a fire pit with a cooking grate and a table, allowing campers to enjoy campfires and outdoor meals. Note that some sites do not have picnic tables directly at the site, but a shared common area is available.

• Portable Toilets: For essential facilities, guests have access to portable toilets, which are noted for being clean, contributing to a comfortable stay despite the primitive nature of the camping.

• Trash Collection: Convenient trash collection services are provided, ensuring that the campground remains clean and allowing campers to easily dispose of their waste.

• Shared Common Area: A communal space is available, featuring a picnic table, a large charcoal grill, a swing set for families, and "several FUN mini libraries" for both humans and dogs, fostering a sense of community and providing extra amenities.

• Firewood for Purchase: Campers can easily purchase bundles of firewood for $5, ensuring they have what they need for campfires without having to bring their own from afar. An honor system with a dropbox for cash is in place.

• Kayak, Canoe, and Tube Rentals with Shuttle Service (NEW FOR 2025): This is a major new offering, providing guests with the opportunity to rent watercraft and utilize a shuttle service. This allows for convenient creek and New River adventures, with options to start at the campground or be shuttled to/from local areas like Foster Falls and Allisonia boat ramp. Rentals and shuttles are available on weekends and holidays (weather permitting), with weekday options for large groups.

It is important to note that Paddlers Creekside Campground does NOT provide potable water or electricity at individual sites, emphasizing its primitive camping focus. Campers should come prepared with their own drinking water.

Paddlers Creekside Campground offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and engaging experience.

• Creekside Location: The prime feature is its direct frontage on Reed Creek. This provides beautiful scenery, soothing sounds of flowing water, and immediate access for various water activities. It's truly a "charming spot by the creek."

• Water-Based Recreation: Guests can enjoy swimming, fishing (in Reed Creek), and relaxing right from their campsites. With the addition of kayak, canoe, and tube rentals, and shuttle services, the New River also becomes easily accessible for paddling adventures, greatly expanding water-based fun.

• Secluded and Peaceful Ambiance: The campground is lauded for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. It's an ideal spot to "unwind and relax," offering a true escape from noise and crowds, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature.

• Family-Friendly Environment: Reviews highlight that this campground is "great for families and kids." The presence of a swing set in the common area and the overall safe, natural setting make it a welcoming place for all ages.

• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, allowing furry family members to join in on the outdoor fun, a significant plus for many campers.

• Attentive and Friendly Hosts (Star Host Recognition): Ryan L., the host, is a "Star Host" on Hipcamp, indicating high ratings, responsiveness, and a commitment to incredible experiences. Guests consistently praise the "super kind owner" and the genuine hospitality, making for a warm and welcoming stay.

• Thoughtful Amenities for Primitive Camping: While primitive, the inclusion of clean portable toilets, trash collection, fire pits with grates, tables, and easy firewood purchase demonstrates a commitment to making the outdoor experience comfortable and convenient.

• "Fun Mini Libraries": A unique and charming touch, the presence of mini libraries for both humans and dogs in the common area adds a delightful and unexpected element to the camping experience, encouraging relaxation and reading.

• Scenic Views: Nestled in the Wythe County landscape, the campground likely offers scenic views of the surrounding natural environment, enhancing the overall aesthetic and peacefulness.

These highlights collectively create a unique and highly appealing camping destination for those who cherish authentic outdoor experiences with thoughtful touches.

As a privately owned and operated campground focused on a unique, primitive creekside experience, Paddlers Creekside Campground's "promotions" are typically integrated into its consistent pricing and the value it offers. Direct, advertised discounts might not be prevalent in the same way as larger, commercial campgrounds, but the core offerings represent excellent value for the experience provided.

• Competitive Pricing for Primitive Sites: The pricing for tent sites (e.g., $25 per night for standard waterfront sites, $30 for a "Drive-In Truck Tent Site," plus taxes & fees) is highly competitive for the quality of the creekside location and the amenities provided (portable toilets, trash, fire pits). This inherent affordability is a consistent "special offer" in itself for budget-conscious campers.

• Value-Added Services: The inclusion of services like trash collection, access to clean portable toilets, and the convenience of firewood for purchase on-site add significant value to the primitive camping experience without often incurring additional direct charges beyond the site fee.

• New Kayak/Canoe/Tube Rentals with Shuttle Service: While a rental fee applies, the introduction of on-site watercraft rentals and shuttle services in 2025 provides immense convenience. This allows guests to easily access water adventures on Reed Creek and the New River, enhancing their stay significantly without needing to bring their own equipment or arrange separate transportation, adding considerable recreational value.

• Day Use Site Options: For those looking for a shorter visit, Day Use sites are available for $20, offering a flexible and affordable way to enjoy the creekside environment for a day.

For the most current information on site availability, specific rental rates for kayaks/canoes/tubes, and any potential deals for extended stays or group bookings, it is always recommended to contact Paddlers Creekside Campground directly. Given its popularity, especially for weekends, booking in advance is advisable.

To reserve your peaceful creekside escape or inquire about watercraft rentals at Paddlers Creekside Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1683 Reed Creek Dr, Draper, VA 24324, USA

Phone: (276) 389-8246

Mobile Phone: +1 276-389-8246

For overnight reservations, booking online is the primary method. However, for Day Use site rentals, kayak/canoe/tube rentals, or any specific questions, calling directly is the most effective way to speak with the friendly hosts and get personalized assistance.

For Virginia residents, Paddlers Creekside Campground in Draper offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for a genuine outdoor escape, providing a blend of natural tranquility, engaging activities, and heartfelt hospitality right in their own backyard.

Firstly, its prime location on Reed Creek, with easy access to the New River, is a significant draw for locals. This means that Virginians interested in fishing, swimming, or paddling don't have to travel far to find pristine waterways. The new addition of on-site kayak, canoe, and tube rentals with shuttle service further enhances this, providing a convenient way for residents to enjoy thrilling water adventures without the hassle of bringing their own gear or arranging complex logistics.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to providing a "peaceful way to unwind and relax" in a "secluded" setting is perfect for those looking to truly disconnect from the stresses of daily life. The primitive tent camping experience, coupled with the thoughtful amenities like clean portable toilets, fire pits, and even charming mini libraries, offers a back-to-basics approach to camping that is both comfortable and authentic. The friendly and attentive hosts further elevate the experience, making every visitor feel genuinely welcome and cared for.

Finally, its family-friendly and dog-friendly policies make it an inclusive destination where all members of the household can create lasting memories together. For Virginians seeking an affordable, convenient, and truly immersive outdoor experience where the focus is on nature, relaxation, and genuine connection, Paddlers Creekside Campground is an outstanding local choice that promises a refreshing and memorable getaway.