Last Updated on December 24, 2019 4:20 pm
As spring begins, staff along the Blue Ridge Parkway are preparing campgrounds for visitors, planning engaging family programs, and readying other facilities for the millions of visitors that enjoy the Parkway each year. This historic, 469-mile route, and National Park Service site, is one of the largest designed landscapes in the country, providing visitors with a wide variety of opportunities to make meaningful connections to the nature, history, and culture of the southern Appalachian mountain region.
Visitors to Parkway campgrounds need to be aware of two changes for the upcoming season. Beginning May 1, 2017, only heat-treated firewood that is bundled and certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought onto the Parkway. Campers may also collect dead and down wood found in the immediate vicinity of campgrounds and picnic areas.
Additionally, the overnight camping fee on the Parkway will be $20.00. “We are committed to keeping the Parkway camping opportunities affordable and providing visitors with the best possible experience,” said Parkway Superintendent Mark Woods. “The funds generated from camping fees are used to maintain and improve existing campground infrastructure such as picnic tables, tent pads, and visitor facilities.”
Official opening date is Friday May 5 when all campgrounds will offer full services. Some picnic areas, visitor centers and attractions are open earlier. For a complete list see this link.
In the High Country portion of the Parkway:
Price Park Campground opened April 1, Self registration April 1 – May 25. Full services, and recreation.gov reservations, available beginning May 26. ALERT – Temporary closures may be in effect due to paving and construction projects.
Linville Falls Campground opened April 1, Trout waters opened April 2. Self registration April 1 – May 25. Full services, and recreation.gov reservations, available beginning May 26.
Parkway Craft Center at the Moses Cone Manor opened March 15.
Price Park Boat Rental opened April 1, Open Fri.-Sun. only through May 11; Open daily beginning May 12.
Northwest Trading Post opens April 15.
Price Park Picnic Area, Open Year Round, Portable toilets available prior to May 19
Linville Falls Picnic Area, Open Year Round, Portable toilets available prior to May 19
Moses Cone Manor House opens April 14, Open Fri-Sun 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. through Apr 27; Open daily beginning April 29.
Linn Cove Visitor Center opens May 5, Open daily, 10:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m.
Linville Falls Visitor Center opens May 5, Open Daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM .
