One of the great treasures of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is Explore Park, an 1,100-acre destination at Milepost 115 of the Blue Ridge Parkway and situated along the Roanoke River in Roanoke County. Many people enjoy mountain biking (even with kids), some enjoy a stroll along one of the trails, and still others visit for the historic buildings. Shucks, some are so smitten with the park that they discover it’s the perfect setting for a wedding.
A relatively recent addition to Explore Park is camping and overnight lodging, and there are now more opportunities than ever to get outside and be one with nature. From the usual RV and primitive tent sites to brand new amenities like pod cabins and canvas tents, it’s highly likely your ideal camping experience can be had at Explore Park in Roanoke.
Camping at Explore Park is available all year with December through March considered “off season” for the rate schedule. All primitive and tent sites are closed during the off season with the exception of two sites. Camping at Explore Park is provided by two vendors: Blue Mountain Adventures and Don’s Cab-Inns.
Pod Cabins
Arch shaped and reminiscent of a Hobbit house (just not in the side of a hill), the pod cabins (pictured at the top of this post) are more spacious than you might imagine. Heat and air are provided for the four-person shelter, and there’s also a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker inside. Linens are not included but can be rented.
Yurts
Yurts have grown in popularity and are perhaps the finest accommodation at Explore Park. Complete with a bathroom, each yurt sleeps up to six people thanks to a queen bed and a three-level double bunk bed. You’ll feel fine in the summer with air conditioner provided, and there’s a kitchenette with coffee maker, refrigerator, and microwave. Linens are not provided but may be rented.
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VisitRoanokeVa.Com | Casey L. Higgins