Meadow Creek Campground

Overview

Meadow Creek Campground is a primitive, tent‑only spot right on the New River about a mile from Sandstone Visitor Center. It’s simple and scenic: a mowed, mostly open field with roughly 17 tent sites and easy river access. There are no fees and no reservations—just roll up and claim a spot.

What You’ll Find

• Sites are basic but functional: each has a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. Vault toilets are available, and there’s a dumpster/bear‑resistant trash nearby.
• There’s no potable water, electricity, Wi‑Fi, or hookups. Bring all your drinking water and be fully self‑sufficient.
• A group site for 8+ people is available by special use permit; plan ahead to secure it.

Setting and Vibe

This is an open, riverside meadow—great sky views, stargazing, and summer fireflies, but minimal shade and occasional wind. The tradeoff for the river setting is noise: an active multi‑track railroad runs right beside camp, and horns can sound at all hours. Earplugs help. The field layout means privacy is limited, and you’ll hear neighbors on busy weekends.

Rules and Realities

Expect standard park campground rules: quiet hours at night, stay limits, and pack‑it‑in sensibilities when trash bins are full. RVs and trailers are prohibited due to the low‑grade railroad crossing and the tent‑only policy. Cell service is hit‑or‑miss—Verizon can work in spots, while other carriers may not.

Safety and Wildlife

The New River is powerful with strong currents and rocky shoals; swimming is discouraged. If you’re near the water, treat it like a whitewater river and wear a PFD. Black bears, deer, raccoons, and plenty of birds are common in the gorge—keep a clean camp and use the provided trash facilities.

Getting There

From I‑64 (Sandstone/Exit 139), head past Sandstone Visitor Center toward Meadow Creek, then carefully cross the active railroad tracks and bear right into the campground. The track crossing is the reason extended wheelbase vehicles aren’t allowed.

Nearby

You’re well‑placed for the park’s southern highlights. Sandstone Falls is an easy hop, and the rest of the gorge—including the bridge area—is a longer but doable drive if you’re exploring widely.

Best Time to Visit

• Weekdays tend to be calmer, with better odds of snagging a site.
• Spring and fall bring milder temps and fewer crowds; summer has fireflies but can be hot under the midday sun.
• For photos and mellow vibes, aim for early morning or golden hour—midday can be glaring and hot due to limited shade.

Bring This

Water (a lot of it), earplugs, sun/rain/wind protection, extra trash bags, and your best stake kit for windy nights.