Virginia / Bedford County / Jefferson National Forest / Blue Ridge Parkway

Peaks Of Otter Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 23, 2025 and operates through October 26, 2025. Reservations available up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov or first-come, first-served.

About

Peaks of Otter Campground is nestled between the bases of two dominating mountains in the rolling hills of Virginia along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 85.9. At 2,875 feet elevation, the campground offers 139 shaded sites under thick forest canopy, with 88 tent-only sites and 51 RV-only sites. Each site includes a picnic table, lantern pole, and campfire ring with grill. The campground operates with a hybrid reservation system: 60 sites can be reserved up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov, while 79 sites remain first-come, first-served. The 24-acre Abbott Lake is a major attraction, stocked with smallmouth bass and bluegill, with a flat trail circling its perimeter. Hiking opportunities range from moderate lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents up Sharp Top and Flat Top. Wildlife including deer and wild turkey are commonly spotted, and the area attracts numerous bird species during migration. The Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant, Sharp Top Country Store, and historic Johnson Farm are within walking distance. A crystal-clear mountain stream winds through the area, creating a tranquil backdrop. Summer interpretive programs cover local wildlife and history. The campground provides flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station, but no showers or hookups of any kind.

Directions

From Roanoke, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north for 26 miles to Milepost 86. From Bedford, follow Route 43 to Blue Ridge Parkway; the campground is on the left before reaching the Parkway.

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