Grayson Highlands State Park Backpack Parking Campground

About

Grayson Highlands State Park's Backpack Parking Campground is a designated overnight parking facility for backpackers accessing the adjacent Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Appalachian Trail. Located at Virginia's highest state park with elevations ranging from 3,698 to 5,089 feet, this lot separates overnight hikers from day-use visitors and eliminates dangerous roadside parking. The reservation includes parking only. Camping is not permitted within the park or in your vehicle. Hikers must travel approximately 1.5 miles south or 2.5+ miles north on the Appalachian Trail to reach legal camping areas on federal land. Bear boxes are available near Thomas Knob Shelter, Rhododendron Gap, Wise Shelter, and Scales. Campfires are prohibited; bring a camp stove. Weather at this elevation can change rapidly with snow possible May through September and winds regularly exceeding 50 mph. Cell service is unreliable, so download offline maps via the Avenza app or bring National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map #318. The park's famous wild ponies roam the area but should not be approached, fed, or petted.

Directions

From I-81, take exit 45 (Marion/Chilhowie). Follow US-16 South for approximately 25 miles to Volney. Turn right onto US-58 West and continue about 8 miles to the park entrance at 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363.