In summer, wildflowers bloom in the fields around Doughton Park
Photo: NPS Photo
About
Doughton Park Campground is nestled in a landscape of mountains and open meadows. Explore the history of early settlers, enjoy spectacular shows of flame azalea and rhododendron, stretch your legs on area hiking trails, and view wildlife such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, red and gray foxes, and bobcats. Originally known as The Bluffs, this area is now part of the 7000-acre Doughton Park, named in honor of Congressman Robert Doughton, a long-time advocate and supporter of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Campsites
Location
Doughton Park Campground
Blue Ridge Parkway
Laurel Springs, NC 28644
Fees
Hours
Friday, May 22, 2026 - Sunday, October 25, 2026 Campground kiosk open 9:30 AM- 6:00 PM when the campground is open.
Reservations
Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, advance reservations can be made for some campsites up to six months in advance by visiting www.recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.
Make a Reservation →Directions
GPS Info. (Latitude, Longitude): 36.42889, -81.15444 36°25'44"N, 81°9'16"W Campground is located at Parkway Milepost 239.2 in North Carolina.
Weather
The Parkway varies in elevation from under 650 feet at Virginia's James River to over 6,000 feet near Mount Pisgah in North Carolina. Weather can vary tremendously. Higher elevations can be cloudy and foggy while lower elevations are clear. Temperatures along the Parkway are often cooler than in surrounding foothills. Carry a jacket or blanket and emergency supplies in the car. Be aware of changing weather conditions and approaching weather systems, as summer heat can bring afternoon thunderstorms.
Accessibility
Two accessible campsites located adjacent to an accessible restroom.
Invasive insects and diseases that live in firewood are a growing threat to forests along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the surrounding region. Tree-killing insects and diseases can hitch-hike hundreds of miles on firewood when people bring wood into campgrounds. Counties in many states have federal or state quarantines in place which prohibit moving firewood. These quarantines were issued to prevent the spread of emerald ash borer, Asian long-horn beetle, gypsy moth, and thousand cankers disease. Federal and state regulations prohibit visitors from bringing firewood to the park from these counties. See https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/firewood-quarantine-by-state.htm for a list of quarantined counties.
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The campground has a dump station and potable water, but NO water or electric hookups.
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Area hiking trails: Bluff Mountain, Fodder Stack
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Campground has two accessible campsites, each with accessible grill and picnic table. Restrooms with flush toilets, drinking water, walkways are accessible. No electric hookups or showers in campground.
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Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Developed Campground