Blue Ridge Parkway North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway Overview

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the eastern United States, stretching 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. Managed by the National Park Service, the Parkway follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the route, visitors encounter mountain overlooks, forests, waterfalls, wildflowers, historic sites, and rural landscapes that showcase the natural and cultural heritage of the Appalachian Highlands.

Blue Ridge Parkway Camping

The National Park Service operates eight developed campgrounds along the Parkway. The developed campgrounds generally operate from May through late October, weather permitting, and close during the winter. Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings. Campgrounds have potable water, restrooms with flush toilets and sinks, and RV dump stations. Showers are available at Julian Price and Mount Pisgah.

Backcountry camping is also available at three designated areas: Rock Castle Gorge near Rocky Knob, Basin Cove near Doughton Park, and Johns River Road near Julian Price Park.

Blue Ridge Parkway – Recreation & Activities

There are many ways to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway. Scenic driving is the primary attraction, with numerous overlooks and pullouts providing opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and picnicking. The Parkway also offers approximately 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short walks to longer mountain hikes. Popular areas include Humpback Rocks, Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and Mount Pisgah.

Other activities include bicycling, wildlife viewing, bird watching, fishing, photography, picnicking, and seasonal ranger programs. Visitors can also explore historic structures, cultural landscapes, visitor centers, and attractions that highlight Appalachian traditions and history.

Make a Reservation for Blue Ridge Parkway

Amenities

• Bathhouse
• BBQ Grills
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Fair
• Cell Service Poor
• Day Use / Picnic Area
• Drinking Water
• Dumpsters
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• Showers
• Trash Collection

Activities

• Auto Touring
• Backpacking
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Cultural Sites
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Mountain Biking
• Nature Trails
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing
• Winter/Snow Sports