If your idea of camping is donning a backpack and hiking a remote trail, you are in luck. The Appalachian Trial and many other mountain pathways in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer opportunities for sleeping under the stars away from the crowds a short drive from Roanoke. There are camping facilities nearby where you can do that. The region offers opportunities for everything from camping in a wilderness area to parking an RV where a miniature golf course is just outside your door. The Virginia Division of State Parks operates nearly 40 areas across the state, about one-third of them offering facilities for campers.
Many parks offer vacation cabins in addition to camping.
Advanced booking is required because of heavy use of these facilities. Most state parks also feature hiking trails, visitors' centers, nature programs, swimming, horseback riding and boat rentals. Some campsites are equipped with water and electricity. The park is just off Interstate 81 at Exit 101. Douthat State Park embraces the beauty of the Allegheny Mountains near Clifton Forge in Alleghany and Bath counties.