Rocky Knob Cg
Are you and your buddy looking for a pretty place to pitch your tent on one of the most peaceful stretches of Virginia’s fabulous Blue Ridge Parkway? Well look no fur-ther than Rocky Knob Campground! You’ll have to "ruff" it a bit during your stay, of course -- facilities at Rocky Knob are a little rustic. You won’t find any showers, electricity, or RV hookups here.
But with a location like this, Rocky Knob really sticks out as a camping destination. You and your pooch can erect your tent in a pastoral paradise just a bone’s throw away from wonderful wildflower meadows, and the sight of the night’s sky needs to be seen to be believed. You and your buddy might find it hard to leave! With 108 sites, Rocky Knob is large enough, and 47 of these are set aside for walk-ins. There’s no entrance fee to Rocky Knob Recreation Area, and sites start at $20.
You and your buddy are sure to sniff out something to do during your stay! The area is something of a haven for hound-dog hikers, and athletic animals are sure to want to get to grips with Rocky Knob’s trail system. The Rocky Castle Gorge Trail in particular is a real "mutts" for four-pawed fitness freaks. This eleven-mile loop features some serious elevation gains, and the scenery ranges from peaceful creekside views to striking mountain vistas. You’ll pass some cow pastures, though, so keep your buddy on a tight leash! Or you could try to hike up to Rocky Knob itself, which stands proud above the parkway. The route is lined by colorful wildflowers in spring, and cultured canines might get a kick out of exploring the original Appalachian Trail hut at the top.
Of course, this part of Virginia is wine country, so it’d be a real faux-paw not to go for a tasting! Many of the area’s wineries are pup-friendly. Chateau Morrisette Winery in particular is well worth a visit, as leashed pooches are allowed on all their tours. They’re even welcome to join in at their Black Dog music festival in summer!
Remember to bring some waste baggies along for a furrific trip at Rocky Knob Campground!
