Hopper Creek Group Camp
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
Hopper Creek Group Camp offers a rustic atmosphere under the trees for group camping. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area welcomes visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
The group camp can accommodate up to 50 people. It is designated for tent camping only, and tent pads are provided. The site is equipped with 12 picnic tables, a pedestal double grill, a large campfire circle and a vault toilet. Drinking water is not provided; campers must bring their own supply. Showers are available at nearby Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area - at the beach bathhouse. A day use fee would apply to Hopper Creek campers entering Cave Mountain Lake.
Need to Know
Entrance gate on State Route 759 is closed but unlocked during camping season; entry by campers only
Tent camping only; RVs are not permitted
Bear cans provided for trash. All trash that does not fit in provided containers MUST be removed and dropped off at County disposal site at corner of State Route 759 and Petites Gap Rd
Bears and other wildlife frequent the area: keep all food locked inside your vehicle
- Drinking water is unavailable; campers must bring their own supply
- Cell phone coverage is unreliable
- No hookups available
- No horses allowed
Campground will be inspected prior to arrival and after departure for trash and resource damage
Use of Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area facilities requires a day use fee.
- For more information, call (540) 291-2188, Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Click here for more information on George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Natural Features
A small stream gurgles past the camping area flowing downstream into Hopper Creek on its way to the James River. The campground sits at an approximate elevation of 1,100 feet at the base of Thunder Ridge.
Nearby Attractions
Hopper Creek is 3 miles from Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area, which offers a day use area with sandy beach, designated swimming area and covered picnic shelter. Natural Bridge State Park is within an 8 mile drive and offers visitors views of the 215 foot tall Natural Bridge and limestone gorge, 6 miles of hiking trails, a Monacan Indian village and the 30 foot cascades of Lace Falls. Natural Bridge State Park is also a great place for unobstructed sky views and star gazing on mowed paths. Canoeing, kayaking and fishing are available in the nearby James River.
Recreation
A mowed, grassy area is available for games and organized activities. Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from short walks in and around Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area to a full day hike along the nearby ridges. Backpacking opportunities are also available on the nearby Appalachian National Scenic Trail, in the James River Face Wilderness or in the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.
Contact Information
Physical
725 HOPPER CREEK ROAD (PHYSICAL ADDRESS) Natural Bridge Station VA 24579
Mailing
Glenwood & Pedlar Ranger District Office 27 Ranger Lane Natural Bridge Station VA 24579
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 540-291-2188
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From I-81 North, take Exit 175 just south of Natural Bridge. Go north on U.S. Highway 11 toward Natural Bridge (left turn facing the Exxon station). From Natural Bridge, follow Route 130 East at the intersection with U.S. Highway 11 (right turn at the Natural Bridge parking lot). Continue east on Route 130 for approximately 4 miles to Natural Bridge Station. Turn right onto State Route 759 and continue for approximately 3 miles to the intersection with Route 781 and Petites Gap Road. Continue 1.6 miles ahead on Route 759 / Hopper Creek Road. Turn left into the recreation area entrance.
