Otter Creek Campground


As Otter Creek descends to the James River, the Blue Ridge Parkway dips to its lowest elevation, only 649 feet above sea level. This area's abundant water and warmer temperatures support plant and animal communities that are unlike those found at other areas on the Parkway. A short walk along the Trail of Trees or a hike along the clear, cool waters of Otter Creek will give ample proof that there is more to the Blue Ridge Parkway than mountain-top vistas.

Facilities

Both RV and tent sites are available at this well-kept campground. Sites are equipped with grills, picnic tables and lantern posts. Amenities such as flush toilets, drinking water and a dump station are also at hand. In addition to the 39 sites available for advanced reservation, 29 campsites are available on a first come, first served basis.

Nearby attractions

Otter Creek Trail (3.5 miles/5.6 km) parallels the Parkway road as it meanders from Otter Creek campground to the James River Visitor Center. Most sections of this trail are easy to hike and can be reached from many points along the motor road. Otter Lake Loop Trail (0.9 miles/1.4 km) provides scenic views of Otter Lake. This is also a good trail for watching wildlife. Look for beaver lodges and dams along tributary streams. Early morning and late evening are prime times for wildlife observations. Trail of Trees (0.4 miles/.6 km) begins near the James River Visitor Center and wanders through a shaded stream drainage. Trail signs identify many of the trees and shrubs of the river valley. This trail also affords a handsome view of the James River water gap, a rare geological feature. Canal Lock Trail (0.4 miles/.6 km) begins at the visitor center and crosses the James River on a walkway beneath the bridge. The restored Battery Creek Lock, located a short distance from the bridge, is typical of those constructed in the 1800s as part of the James River and Kanawha Canal. This canal, with nearly 100 locks, helped make the river a major transportation corridor before the Civil War. Exhibits at the Battery Creek site explain how locks were used to raise and lower boats to adjust for the changing elevation of the river.

Natural feaures

Otter Creek Campground is located at the Parkway's lowest elevation near Virginia's James River.

Recreation

The James River/Otter Creek recreation area has fishing in Otter Lake and a number of hiking trails including Trail of Trees, Otter Creek, Otter Lake Loop, and James River Canal.


Driving directions to Otter Creek Campground

Traveling from the Lynchburg area on Rte 29, turn onto Rte 130 West. Travel approximately 25 miles to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. From the ramp, turn right (north) onto the Parkway. Travel one mile to the Otter Creek Campground. Traveling from the Lexington/Buena Vista direction on Rte 81, take the Blue Ridge Parkway exit to Rte 60 E towards Amherst. Drive approximately 16 miles, turning at the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance sign. At the Stop sign, turn left (south) onto the Parkway. Travel approximately 16 miles to the entrance of Otter Creek Campground.

Location and contact info

Blue Ridge Parkway, VA 24574

For campground inquires, please call:434-299-5125 (MAY - OCTOBER)

Otter Creek Campground details

  • Campfire allowed
  • Checkin time: 3:00 PM
  • Checkout time: 12:00 PM
  • Location rating: Good
  • Max num of people: 6
  • Max num of vehicles: 1
  • Max vehicle length: 26
  • Pets allowed

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Find the perfect RV

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2

Delivery or Pickup

Arrange a pick up time with the host or have it delivered to your driveway or destination.

Let us help

Most hosts have the option to deliver and set up the RV right to your destination.

3

Adventure awaits!

Enjoy the freedom of the open road nd the assurance of 24/7 roadside assistance.

After your trip, return the RV to the host in the same condition you recieved it.

Amenities at Otter Creek Campground

  • other

    Shade

    Quiet area

  • supplies

    Picnic table

    Grills/Fire ring

    BBQ

    Fire pit

    Food locker


Activities at Otter Creek Campground

Historic & cultural site

Camping

Hiking

Visitor center

Wildlife viewing

Fishing

Photography

Birding


Get all the comforts of home in your RV! Outdoorsy community member, Mike Jackson, runs through how to keep a comfortable RV with proper operation of AC and heating.
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Find the perfect RV for Otter Creek Campground

Questions about RVs?

Q.

What type of RV should I choose?

A.

Start by determining how many people are planning to travel with you. Going on a solo-journey? Choose a camper van or a teardrop trailer. Bringing the whole family along for the ride? Consider a spacious Class A or five-wheel.

You’ll also want to consider amenities. For example, if you’re planning to cook on the road, you’ll want a kitchenette. If your campground doesn’t have public restrooms, you’ll want to search RVs with bathrooms. Check out full descriptions of our models to help you decide here.


Q.

Do the RVs have bathrooms?

A.

Yes. Class A’s, Class B’s, and Class C’s and five-Wheels typically have bathrooms. Depending on where you plan on camping, you’ll want to double-check the availability of restrooms if selecting a rig without a bathroom. Nervous about renting an RV with a bathroom? Owners can help show you how to clean the tank or will offer to do it for you for a fee.


Q.

How does check-in work?

A.

Once an Owner approves your RV reservation, you can coordinate a time to pick up your rig or have it delivered to your doorstep or campsite. At that point, the owner will do a key exchange with you and walk you through the RV and answer any questions you might have.