North Carolina / Watauga County

Julian Price Park Campground

Closed — Closed for the winter season. The campground operates seasonally, typically May through October. Only Loop A is open for 2025 following Hurricane Helene damage, with other loops remaining closed through 2025 for ongoing repairs. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Julian Price Campground is the largest campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway, situated at milepost 297 near Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Located adjacent to the pristine Price Lake, the campground sits at over 3,400 feet elevation amid a forest of hemlock, white pine, oak, hickory, and birch trees. The setting provides stunning displays of wildflowers in spring and brilliant fall foliage in autumn. Originally featuring 190 campsites across multiple loops, the campground sustained significant damage from Hurricane Helene in fall 2024. Following extensive repairs and hazard tree removal, Loop A reopened in August 2025 with approximately 37 reservable sites. The remaining loops remain closed through 2025 as work continues on water system repairs and debris removal. Sites are equipped with grills, picnic tables, and lantern poles. Both tent and RV sites are available, though there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups. A dump station and potable water are provided when the campground is open. The shower house is closed for 2025. Recreational opportunities include hiking several trails accessible from the campground, including the Price Lake Trail loop, Boone Fork Trail featuring a waterfall, and connections to the Tanawha Trail. Canoes can be rented at Price Lake, and other non-motorized boats are permitted. Fishing is available with a dock provided. Wildlife is abundant with frequent sightings of black bears, wild turkeys, grouse, owls, and hawks. The charming town of Blowing Rock is located just minutes away, offering dining and shopping options.

Directions

From Asheville, take I-40 E for 20 miles to exit 72 for US-70 E. Continue on US-70 E for 11 miles, then turn left onto US-221 N and drive 21.6 miles. Turn right at the Blue Ridge Parkway sign, then left onto the Parkway and drive approximately 22 miles north to milepost 297. From Boone, take US-321 S for 6.3 miles, turn right at the Blue Ridge Parkway connector, then left onto the Parkway and drive 4.4 miles south.

Nearby Campgrounds