One of the great treasures of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is Explore Park, an 1,100-acre destination at Milepost 115 of the Blue Ridge Parkway and situated along the Roanoke River in Roanoke County. Many people enjoy mountain biking (even with kids), some enjoy a stroll along one of the trails, and still others visit for the historic buildings. Shucks, some are so smitten with the park that they discover it’s the perfect setting for a wedding.

A relatively recent addition to Explore Park is camping and overnight lodging, and there are now more opportunities than ever to get outside and be one with nature. From the usual RV and primitive tent sites to brand new amenities like pod cabins and canvas tents, it’s highly likely your ideal camping experience can be had at Explore Park in Roanoke.

Camping at Explore Park is available all year with December through March considered “off season” for the rate schedule. All primitive and tent sites are closed during the off season with the exception of two sites. Camping at Explore Park is provided by two vendors: Blue Mountain Adventures and Don’s Cab-Inns. Check out their options…

Pod Cabins

Arch shaped and reminiscent of a Hobbit house (just not in the side of a hill), the pod cabins (pictured at the top of this post) are more spacious than you might imagine. Heat and air are provided for the four-person shelter, and there’s also a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker inside. Linens are not included but can be rented.
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Yurts

Yurts have grown in popularity and are perhaps the finest accommodation at Explore Park. Complete with a bathroom, each yurt sleeps up to six people thanks to a queen bed and a three-level double bunk bed. You’ll feel fine in the summer with air conditioner provided, and there’s a kitchenette with coffee maker, refrigerator, and microwave. Linens are not provided but may be rented.
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Primitive Camping

Go ahead and pitch a tent for yourself or a group at one of the primitive camp sites. A picnic table and fire pit are available at each one.
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RV Sites

The RV sites at Explore Park are 12-foot by 35-foot and have 50 amp electric. None of the sites offer water or sewer but there is a nearby spigot that you can tap to fill a pot for cooking or brushing your teeth.
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Bell Tents

Named for their shape, bell tents are elevated onto wooden platforms and feature camp cots for sleeping.
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Canvas Tents

The most spacious of all the camping options at Explore Park are the canvas tents. You’ll feel right at home in the queen bed (complete with linens), and there’s room to add cots, should you need them. Bonus? This accommodation offers food service. Simply plan out your menu and the goods will be delivered each day for your fresh preparation at the outdoor kitchen. Contact Blue Mountain Adventures to secure your visit and needs.
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On-Site Activities

Make the most of your visit at Explore Park by utilizing park amenities and taking advantage of local partnerships.

• Treetop Quest – an aerial adventure course featuring zip-lines, swings, cargo nets, and more
• 18-Hole Disc Golf at Mayflower Hills Park
• Mountain Biking
• Blue Mountain Adventures Tube Rentals - available Saturdays & Sundays during the summer
• National Park Service Ranger Programs
• Wild Things Series – naturalist-led programming that introduces visitors to the local “wild things” of Explore Park
• Join the Adventure Academy and receive patches for completing various outdoor programs and activities
• Access to the Roanoke River for paddling and fishing
• Food & Craft Beer at the Twin Creeks Brewpub

Are you ready to book your camping date at Explore Park? Proceed to registration to secure your site.