Virginia / Smyth County / Jefferson National Forest / Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

Raccoon Branch Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens mid-April 2026 and operates through late November. Reservations available via Recreation.gov. Gate hours 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. when open. 14-night maximum stay.

About

Nestled at the base of Dickey Knob in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Raccoon Branch Campground offers a peaceful mountain retreat surrounded by pines, hardwoods, and rhododendrons. At 2,880 feet elevation, the campground features 17 sites situated along a large grassy area with scenic mountain views and access to cold mountain streams. Each campsite includes a paved parking spur, graveled tent pad, picnic table, fire grill, and lantern post. Five sites feature electric and water hookups for an additional fee. The campground provides flush toilets and drinking water, though no showers are available. Dickey Creek and Raccoon Branch are accessible from the campground, offering opportunities for wading and trout fishing. The Dickey Knob Trail departs directly from the campground, leading hikers through the adjacent Raccoon Branch Wilderness to spectacular views of Sugar Grove and Rye Valley. The campground's location provides easy access to the Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail, and nearby Grayson Highlands State Park. With convenient access from Interstate 81 via State Route 16, Raccoon Branch is particularly popular during fall foliage season and summer vacation months.

Directions

From I-81, take Marion exit 45 onto Virginia State Route 16 South. Follow SR 16 South for approximately 13 miles to the campground on the right.

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