Glade Creek Campground

Overview

If you’re into quiet, primitive camping with the river as your soundtrack, Glade Creek Campground delivers. Tucked at the end of Glade Creek Road near Prince, it’s small, simple, and scenic—exactly what many folks want after a day on the trail or water. It’s free and first‑come, first‑served, so the vibe is relaxed and rustic rather than resort.

Campsites & Amenities

• 11 total sites: 6 walk‑in tent sites along the river and 5 drive‑in sites for tents or small–medium rigs. One site is designated accessible.
• Each site has a picnic table and fire ring; many have a grill or a pole for lantern/food hanging.
• Vault toilets are on site and kept tidy. There’s no drinking water, electricity, or dump station—pack in water or treat from the creek/river.
• There are trash bins, but be prepared to pack out if they’re full.

Getting There (Read This Before You Roll)

Access is via roughly 6–7 miles of gravel with potholes and a narrow one‑lane bridge near the end. It’s doable if you take it slow, but low‑clearance vehicles and long rigs won’t love it. Keep your setup modest and your speed lower.

What Makes It Special

You’re camped beside the New River with the Glade Creek Trail starting right here. That means easy miles on a former rail grade, cascades and creek play spots, and side trips like Kates Falls. There’s a boat ramp for paddlers, and anglers appreciate the access. Expect a mostly peaceful setting—punctuated by trains rumbling across the river.

Wildlife & Nature Notes

Birders like this corridor for wood‑warblers and other riparian species. Dawn and dusk are best for bird activity. Around camp, keep food secured and respect local wildlife that wanders the river corridor.

Need to Know

• Free, first‑come, first‑served; 14‑day limit in a 28‑day period.
• Quiet hours run 10 pm–6 am. Pets must be leashed. Burn only dead/down wood and use existing fire rings. Camp only in designated sites.
• Cell service is limited to nonexistent for many carriers (Verizon can be spotty; AT&T/T‑Mobile often no signal). Plan to be offline.
• The New River has powerful currents—good for experienced paddlers, not for casual swimming.

Best Time to Visit

• Day of week: Weekdays are your best bet; this small campground can fill by evening in peak periods.
• Time of day: Roll in before mid‑afternoon to snag a site. Morning and golden hour are nicest for creek and river photography.
• Crowds: Holiday weekends go early; have a backup plan in mind (other primitive FCFS campgrounds in the park).

Nearby Things to Do

• Hike the Glade Creek Trail right from camp for easy, photogenic creekside walking and historic railroad remnants.
• Launch small boats/rafts at the adjacent ramp (PFDs strongly recommended; currents are serious).