Otter Creek Campground

About

Otter Creek Campground occupies a unique position along the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 60.9, where the road descends to its lowest elevation of 649 feet near the James River. The warmer temperatures and abundant water at this elevation support plant and animal communities distinct from the higher Parkway reaches. Otter Creek itself winds through the campground, providing a peaceful backdrop of running water. The campground offers 68 sites split between two loops: Loop A accommodates RVs (non-electric) while Loop B serves tent campers. All sites include a grill, picnic table, and lantern post. Facilities include flush toilets, drinking water spigots, and a dump station. There are no showers or hookups. Recreation opportunities abound, with the Otter Creek Trail (3.5 miles) following the creek downstream to the James River Visitor Center, where a restored canal lock from the historic Kanawha Canal can be viewed. The Otter Lake Loop Trail (0.9 miles) offers wildlife viewing opportunities including beaver activity, while the Trail of Trees (0.4 miles) identifies native vegetation of the river valley.

Directions

From Lynchburg area: Take Route 29, turn onto Route 130 West, travel approximately 25 miles to Blue Ridge Parkway entrance, turn right (north) onto Parkway, travel one mile to campground at milepost 60.9. From Lexington/Buena Vista: Take I-81 to Blue Ridge Parkway exit, follow Route 60 East towards Amherst for approximately 16 miles, turn at Blue Ridge Parkway entrance, turn left (south) onto Parkway, travel approximately 16 miles to campground entrance.