High Knob Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens the last Saturday in May and operates through late September. First-come, first-served only.
Special Weather Statement issued April 12 at 2:12PM EDT by NWS Morristown TN
Relative humidity values of around 30 to 35 percent and wind gusts of 20 to 25 mph are expected from late morning through the early evening hours. When combined with the recent lack of rainfall, this will lead to elevated fire danger across the area. Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly. Also, remember to obey local burn bans and refer to local officials. Visit dof.virginia.gov for additional information.
About
High Knob Campground is the highest campground in the Clinch Ranger District of Jefferson National Forest, situated at 3,800 feet elevation. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930s, this remote recreation area offers a peaceful mountain retreat with cooler summer temperatures and well-preserved historic structures. The campground features 14 campsites, including both single and group sites, accommodating vehicles up to 16 feet in length. The centerpiece of the recreation area is High Knob Lake, a 4-acre cold water lake with a 300-foot sand swimming beach. Bath houses provide hot showers and flush toilets, and potable water is available throughout the campground during the operating season. A small amphitheater sits on a hillside behind the beach house, and the lake is stocked for fishing with a Virginia license and Forest Service Stamp. The area offers access to hiking trails in Jefferson National Forest and provides picnic areas for day use. Original CCC-era structures remain in use, adding historical character to this mountain getaway. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations, and visitors can pay by cash, check, or by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Directions
From Kingsport, TN: Follow U.S. 23 north to the first Norton, VA exit. Take this exit and make a right onto State Route 619. Travel 3.8 miles to the intersection with Forest Service Road 238 East. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 238 East and travel 1.6 miles to campground entrance. From Abingdon, VA: Follow U.S. 58 West/U.S. 19 North to Hansonville, VA. Turn left onto U.S. Route 58 Alternate West and drive to Norton. At Norton, turn south onto State Route 619. Travel 3.8 miles to the intersection with Forest Service Road 238 East. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 238 East and travel 1.6 miles to campground entrance.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Bark Camp 5.6mi
- Flatwoods Group Picnic Area 8.9mi
- Cane Patch 15mi
- Cove View And Lovers Leap Campground 14mi
- Natural Tunnel State Park Shelters And Hunts 14mi
- Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area 15mi
- Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Campground 15mi
- Natural Tunnel State Park Cabins And Lodge 15mi
- Laurel Fork Primitive Camp 16mi
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 - $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 16ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 16ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (276) 679-8370 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
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