Blue Ridge Parkway — camping, meandering along “America’s Favorite Drive”

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+GrandfatherMountainSpring-viaductOver the course of my life, every time I traveled anywhere near the Blue Ridge Parkway … I made certain I hopped onto it for at least a few of the 469 slow, meandering miles through Virginia and North Carolina.

It is a mythical drive.

This “most visited” unit of the U.S. National Park Service is gearing up for the spring rush of camping visitors, according to a recent news release.

The Parkway’s eight campgrounds will be open by early May through late October. Find a  campground for the RV or tent by clicking here.

“All campgrounds have potable water, comfort stations with flush toilets and sinks, and a dump station for recreational vehicles. There are no showers or hook-ups. Each camp site includes a picnic table and fire ring.

“Camping is permitted only in designated campsites. Campsites are $16 per night. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, advance reservations can be made for all campgrounds except Crabtree Falls. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance by visiting Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877/444-6777.

+GrandfatherMountainFALL-viaduct -“A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special,” according to the National Park Service.

More information:
Blue Ridge Parkway
199 Hemphill Knob Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
Website: Blue Ridge Parkway
Phone: (828) 348-3400

This number is the main park headquarters line. A recorded park information line at (828) 298-0398 has the most updated information on facilities schedules, bloom and leaf information.

Julianne G. Crane

Photos: Grandfather Mountain, Blue Ridge Parkway. Spring and Autumn. (Source: National Park Service)

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