Overview Wilderness Road Campground is nestled in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park , where Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia meet. You can access miles of forest and mountain trails directly from the campground. While in the park, drive up to the Pinnacle for a br…
Overview Wilderness Road Campground is nestled in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park , where Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia meet. You can access miles of forest and mountain trails directly from the campground. While in the park, drive up to the Pinnacle for a breathtaking view of the mountains or check out Civil War earthworks. Hike to the pale cliffs of White Rocks, the gaping mouth of Sand Cave, or the historic Hensley Settlement to see how mountain folk once lived. Stand in 3 states at the same time or immerse yourself in thousands of acres of proposed wilderness. Walk a path once traveled by the bison, Native American, longhunter, and pioneer. Stand in the narrow mountain gap where Daniel Boone stood and where thousands of people risked everything to reach and settle what would become America. Wilderness Road Campground includes 151 wooded sites open to tents, trailers, and RV campers. Electrical hookups (20-, 30-, or 50-amp) are available at 43 sites. Group sites are also available. The campground is open year-round with limited campsites, as well as the comfort station between loops C and D, open during the winter season (mid-November to mid-March). Recreation Over 85 miles of trails offer plenty of opportunities for Hiking and Backpacking adventures in the great outdoors. You can take an easy 1/4-mile stroll or go on a challenging 10-mile hike in the backcountry, the choice is yours. Several trails meander through over 14,000 acres of proposed wilderness. Backcountry Camping is allowed at 5 designated sites in the park with a permit. Experience the quiet beauty of the mountains and wilderness as you camp under the stars. Permits are free of charge and can be obtained at the park visitor center. Picnicking at one of several picnic areas in the park is a popular activity. Whether you are looking for a quiet lunch while enjoying nature or having a big family get-together in the great outdoors, we have lim
Photos
A light blue sky with green mountains. — NPS PhotoA blacktop road with red and yellow cables to the left. — NPS Photo KM, KMA sidewalk with a brown building to the left. — NPS Photo KM, KMPotable water located to the right of the entrance station. — NPS Photo KM, KMBrown leaves on the ground with wood laying around, colorful trees surrounding, and a picnic table to the right. — NPS Photo KM, KMA blacktop road with trees near and a brown building to the right. — NPS Image KM, KMA walkway with railing and colorful trees along the side. — NPS Photo KM, KM
How to Get There
Wilderness Road Campground is located at the end of National Park Road, off US Highway 58 in Virginia. From the Park Visitor Center in Middlesboro, Kentucky (approximately 5 miles): When leaving the visitor center parking lot, turn left onto Pinnacle View Road, then take the ramp down and merge into US-25E S toward Harrogate, Tennessee. Go through the tunnel into Tennessee. Turn right onto US-58 E toward Jonesville, Virginia and Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. Cross into Virginia. Continue on US-58 approximately 2.4 miles, then turn left onto National Park Road. Continue on National Park Road to the campground entrance. From Knoxville, Tennessee (approximately 56 miles): Take TN-331 (Tazewell Pike) toward Tazewell, approximately 39 miles. Turn left onto US-25E N toward Harrogate. Go through Harrogate, then turn right onto US-58 E toward Jonesville, Virginia and Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. If you enter the tunnel then you missed the turn. On US-58 you will cross into VIrginia. Continue on US-58 approximately 2.4 miles, then turn left onto National Park Road. Continue on National Park Road to the campground entrance. From Abingdon, Virginia (approximately 115 miles): Take I-81 S toward Bristol, Tennessee. After approximately 18 miles, take US-11W S toward Kingsport. After approximately 20 miles, turn right onto US-23 N. Cross into Virginia. After approximately 22 miles, turn left onto US-58 W. Continue on US-58 W for approximately 52 miles, then turn right onto National Park Road. Co
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Wilderness Road Campground
Heading to Wilderness Road Campground? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Wilderness Road Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Wilderness Road Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258617) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Wilderness Road Campground?
Wilderness Road Campground is located at the end of National Park Road, off US Highway 58 in Virginia. From the Park Visitor Center in Middlesboro, Kentucky (approximately 5 miles): When leaving the visitor center parking lot, turn left onto Pinnacle View Road, then take the ramp down and merge into US-25E S toward Harrogate, Tennessee. Go through the tunnel into Tennessee. Turn right onto US-58 E…
How do I contact Wilderness Road Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 606-248-2817 or email: [email protected].
