About HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP
Overview Hopper Creek Group Camp offers a rustic atmosphere under the trees for group camping. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area welcomes visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Recreation A mowed, grassy area is available for games and organized activities. Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from short walks in and around Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area to a full day hike along the nearby ridges. Backpacking opportunities are also available on the nearby Appalachian National Scenic Trail, in the James River Face Wilderness or in the Thunder Ridge Wilderness. Facilities The group camp can accommodate up to 50 people. It is designated for tent camping only, and tent pads are provided. The site is equipped with 12 picnic tables, a pedestal double grill, a large campfire circle and a vault toilet. Drinking water is not provided; campers must bring their own supply. Showers are available at nearby Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area - at the beach bathhouse. A day use fee would apply to Hopper Creek campers entering Cave Mountain Lake. Natural Features A small stream gurgles past the camping area flowing downstream into Hopper Creek on its way to the James River. The campground sits at an approximate elevation of 1,100 feet at the base of Thunder Ridge. Nearby Attractions Hopper Creek is 3 miles from Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area, which offers a day use area with sandy beach, designated swimming area and covered picnic shelter. Natural Bridge State Park is within an 8 mile drive and offers visitors views of the 215 foot tall Natural Bridge and limestone gorge, 6 miles of hiking trails, a Monacan Indian village and the 30 foot cascades of Lace Falls. Natural Bridge State Park is also a great place for unobstructed sky views and star gazing on mowed paths. Canoeing, kayaking and fishing are available in the nearby James River.
How to Get There
From I-81 North, take Exit 175 just south of Natural Bridge. Go north on U.S. Highway 11 toward Natural Bridge (left turn facing the Exxon station). From Natural Bridge, follow Route 130 East at the intersection with U.S. Highway 11 (right turn at the Natural Bridge parking lot). Continue east on Route 130 for approximately 4 miles to Natural Bridge Station. Turn right onto State Route 759 and continue for approximately 3 miles to the intersection with Route 781 and Petites Gap Road. Continue 1.6 miles ahead on Route 759 / Hopper Creek Road. Turn left into the recreation area entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
- 🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
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 HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP
Heading to HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP? 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 HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233164) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP?
From I-81 North, take Exit 175 just south of Natural Bridge. Go north on U.S. Highway 11 toward Natural Bridge (left turn facing the Exxon station). From Natural Bridge, follow Route 130 East at the intersection with U.S. Highway 11 (right turn at the Natural Bridge parking lot). Continue east on Route 130 for approximately 4 miles to Natural Bridge Station. Turn right onto State Route 759 and con…
How do I contact HOPPER CREEK GROUP CAMP?
You can reach the park at phone: 540-291-2188 or email: khall@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
