Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Camping

Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Campground is a primitive camp along the Rock Castle Gorge Trail in the Rocky Knob Recreational Area, part of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The campsites can be reached from various points ranging in distance from 1/2 mile to 8 miles. The complete Rock Castle Gorge Trail is a 10.8 mile loop, and several other loop trails connect to it. The year-round campground has eight campsites, each with a fire ring and pad and food storage lockers. A portable toilet is available. Plan to pack in your water for safety. There is plenty of shade, and Rock Castle Creek runs adjacent to the campground. Rock Castle Creek, Little Rock Castle Creek and many other streams and creeks meander along the trail and run right by the campground. Fishing requires a Virginia fishing license, and the State of Virginia's laws and regulations apply. Summers are hot, 70 to 88 degrees, and humid, as Rock Castle Creek is adjacent to the campground. Winter daytime temperatures run 30 to 50 degrees and can easily drop below freezing at night. Venture into one of the Parkway's more rugged areas at Rocky Knob. Hike through forests, explore mountain ridges, or enjoy spring wildflowers and rhododendrons. Bare rocks and other geological outcrops and long distance views from the upper elevations of the Rock Castle Gorge Trail are sure to please, and there is plenty of wildlife including black bears. Floyd, VA is less than 8 miles away, known for eclectic shops, mountain music venues and great places to eat, along with grocery stores, variety stores and pharmacies.