Step back in time with a self-guided tour of the Johnson Farm
Photo: NPS Photo
About
The campground is nestled at the base of two mountains in the rolling hills of Virginia. Nearby Abbott Lake is well-stocked with small mouth bass and bluegill. A stream winds through the campground, creating a tranquil backdrop for your camping trip. Hikers may choose to climb a mountain or stroll on a flat, lakeside trail. Wildlife such as deer and wild turkey are spotted daily at the Peaks of Otter Campground.
Campsites
Location
Peaks of Otter Campground
Blue Ridge Parkway
Bedford, VA 24523
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 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): 37.44315, -79.60471 37°26'35"N, 79°36'17"W From Roanoke, Virginia, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north for 26 miles to Milepost 86. From Bedford, Virginia, follow Route 43 to Blue Ridge Parkway; the campground is on the left before reaching the Parkway.
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
Eight accessible campsite 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.
1
The campground has a dump station and potable water, but NO water or electric hookups.
0
Area hiking trails: Sharp Top, Elk Run, Harkening Hill, Johnson Farm
0
Campground has eight accessible campsite, with accessible grill and picnic table. Restrooms with flush toilets, drinking water, walkways are accessible. No electric hookups or showers in campground.
1
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Developed Campground