Recreation

Camping

Hurricane Campground

Hurricane Campground is one of the "20 perfect places to pitch your tent" according to the March 2002 issue of National Geographic's Adventure Magazine as listed in their coast-to-coast guide to the greatest campsites in the U.S.A.

Location and Directions: Hurricane Campground is in Smyth County, Virginia, 15 miles south of Marion. From I-81 at Marion take exit 45 onto Virginia State Route 16 south. Follow SR 16 for 15 miles to SR 650 (5 miles south of Sugar Grove). Turn right on gravel SR 650, follow it for 2 miles to the paved campground entrance road.

Facilities Available: There are 24 single units and 6 double units. None of the sites can be reserved; all sites are first-come, first-served. Most units have a gravel parking spur, picnic table and fire grill. Some have tent pads. There is one accessible site. Recreation vehicles up to 22 feet can be accommodated. Water fountains and a garbage bin are centrally located. Bath-houses have flush toilets and warm showers. A trailer waste disposal station is located at Raccoon Branch Campground 5 miles away.

Attractions: Hurricane and Comers Creeks run through the area for trout fishing and wading. Hurricane Knob Nature Trail offers a brisk 1 mile loop hike. Excellent hunting and fishing opportunities are available. There is easy access to the Appalachian Trail within ½ mile. An open field allows for games. The entire campground has a relaxing, rustic atmosphere. There is typically an on-site campground host. There is no pay phone, and cellular phones do not work from this location. The campground host has a two-way radio for emergencies.

Climate: The elevation of this campground is approximately 2,800 feet. Summer days typically reach temperatures in the 70’s to 80’s (rarely into the 90’s) and evenings cool down to the 50’s or 60’s.

Vegetation: Hurricane is built adjacent to a trout stream under the canopy of pines, hemlocks and hardwoods. Level areas are mowed to provide a grassy playing field.

Season and Pattern Of Use: The campground is open from early April to early October (subject to change). Weekdays typically see low use, while moderate to heavy use can be expected on weekends. The campground will fill to capacity during holiday weekends.

Fee: The Recreation Fee Schedule Page provides a table listing all fees.

USDA Forest Service - George Washington and Jefferson National Forest
Last Modified:  Wednesday, 23 May 2007 at 19:53:48 EDT