Grayson Highlands State Park Hickory Ridge Campground

About

Grayson Highlands State Park's Hickory Ridge Campground provides camping at the highest elevation of any Virginia state park, nestled in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The campground features 38 sites with 20/30/50-amp electric and water hookups accommodating RVs up to 40 feet, plus 28 primitive tent sites. Four yurts, a bunkhouse, and a group camping area expand the lodging options. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring/grill. The park's most famous residents are the free-roaming wild ponies that graze the high balds, descendants of horses released decades ago to manage vegetation. Over 25 miles of trails wind through spruce-fir forests, rhododendron thickets, and open meadows, with direct access to both the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Highlands Horse Trail. Massie Gap offers panoramic views and reliable pony sightings. The fall foliage season and spring wildflower blooms draw visitors from across the region. The campground features a modern bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers, potable water, and a dump station. A country store near the campground sells camping supplies, snacks, and souvenirs. The central playground area gives families a gathering spot. Full-service camping runs May through October; primitive camping with porta-johns only is available in March, April, and November.

Directions

From I-81, take Exit 45 at Marion and follow US-16 south approximately 24 miles to Volney. Turn right onto US-58 west and continue about 8 miles to the park entrance on the left. The park is located off US-58 between Independence and Damascus in Grayson County.