Brooklyn Campground

Overview

If you like your camping simple and scenic, Brooklyn Campground is your speed. It’s a tiny, primitive, free, first-come tent camp tucked right on the New River, a short hop from the Cunard River Access. The Southside Trail starts nearby and follows the river to the historic rail town of Thurmond, so you can roll out of your tent and onto a mellow, history-rich riverside path.

Campsites & Facilities

There are five tent sites total: four walk-in pads along the river (about a 10–50 yard stroll from the parking area) plus one drive-up tent site. Expect picnic tables and fire rings at sites and a basic vault/portable toilet. That’s the end of the luxuries—there’s no potable water, no electricity, and trash service can be limited, so plan to pack out what you pack in.

Setting, Noise & Vibe

You’re camped right on the river with big views and passing trains across the water. The rail line is active, and several trains can roll by overnight—some campers don’t mind it, others bring earplugs. Access to the riverbank can be steep in spots. The walk-in sites are in a line, so you may see folks passing by to reach the restroom or parking.

Getting There

Navigate to Cunard River Access first; from the boat ramps, continue about a mile on the gravel road to the campground. Map apps sometimes try to route you to the wrong side of the river, so double-check and, if you can, arrive in daylight.

What To Do Nearby

• Hike or bike the Southside Trail along the river to Thurmond for rail history and easy miles.
• Cast a line: the New River is known for smallmouth bass, and anglers use nearby access points to reach productive water.

Wildlife & Safety

Store food smartly (think bear-wise practices) and pack out trash. Snakes are part of the ecosystem here—watch where you step, especially near the river. Swimming is strongly discouraged due to powerful currents, rocky banks, and sudden drop-offs.

Best Time to Visit

With only a handful of sites and no reservations, arriving on weekday mornings gives you the best shot, especially in peak seasons. For photos, early and late light plays nicely on the river. Summer weekends can fill fast; shoulder seasons offer quieter vibes if the weather cooperates.