The historic canal lock on James River was used to aid river transportation during the 1800s.
Photo: NPS photo/Hamel
About
As Otter Creek descends to the James River, the Blue Ridge Parkway dips to its lowest elevation, only 649 feet above sea level. This area's abundant water and warmer temperatures support plant and animal communities that are unlike those found at other areas on the Parkway. A short walk along the Trail of Trees or a hike along the clear, cool waters of Otter Creek will give ample proof that there is more to the Blue Ridge Parkway than mountain-top vistas.
Campsites
Location
Otter Creek Campground
Blue Ridge Parkway
Big Island, VA 24526
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): 37.5756, -79.3388 37°34'32"N, 79°20'20"W Campground is located at Parkway Milepost 60.9 in Virginia.
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
One 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.
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The campground has a dump station and potable water, but NO water or electric hookups. VA state laws limit RVs to 45' in length and trailers to 28.5' in length (combined vehicle/trailer length max 65')
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Area hiking trails: Trail of Trees, Otter Creek, Otter Lake Loop, James River Canal
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Campground has one accessible campsite, 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