Recreation - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How high is Mount Rogers?

A: 5,729 feet

Q: Is there a view from the summit of Mount Rogers?

A: No, the summit is located in dense wilderness area, but there are fantastic views hiking up to the summit.

Q: Are dogs allowed in the National Recreation Area (on trails, in campgrounds)?

A: Yes, but they must be on a leash.

Q: Does the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area have cabins that can be rented?

A: The NRA has three rental cabins: the Sunrise Cabin, Stony Fork and the Blue Springs Gap Cabin. See the rental cabin page for rates, details, and photographs.

Q: How long is the Virginia Creeper Trail?

A: 34 miles long going from Abingdon to Whitetop (Virginia/North Carolina border).

Q: Does the NRA sell maps of the Mount Rogers area?

A: Yes. See the details on the Maps page.

Q: What is the difference between Mount Rogers and Grayson Highlands State Park?

A: Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. Grayson Highlands is a Virginia State Park.

Q: How do I get to the top of Mount Rogers? Can I drive?

A: To get to the summit of Mount Rogers you will need to hike. You can leave from the Massie Gap parking area in Grayson Highlands State Park or from Elk Garden on Rt. 600. Either way be prepared for a 4 1/2 mile hike one way.

Q: How many campgrounds does the Mount Rogers NRA have?

A: The NRA includes 7 campgrounds and 4 horse camps.

Q: Can I make reservations at the campgrounds?

A: Reservations can be made at Beartree Family and Group Camping; Grindstone Family Camping; Raccoon Branch; Blue Springs, Stony Fork Cabin and Sunrise Cabins; and the Old Virginia Group Horse Camp. Detailed information on making reservations is available on our reservations page.

Q: Where is the safest place to park my car when hiking the Appalachian Trail?

A: The safest places to park are Massie Gap parking area in Grayson Highlands State Park and the Mount Rogers NRA headquarters office on Route 16 south of Marion. The other parking areas are located in remote areas with limited patrols.

Q: Can I reserve the Appalachian Trail shelters?

A: No, they are first come, first served.

Q: Will my cell phone work in the NRA?

A: Maybe yes; probably no! Our best advice is "don't count on it." Cell phones may work in parts of the high country, but are not likely to work otherwise.

Q: I don't camp. Can I find a motel or bed and breakfast nearby?

A: Surrounding communities offer a number of lodging possibilities. Abingdon, Damascus, Marion, Troutdale, Wytheville have hotels and bed and breakfasts. Check out the Link page for links to area Chambers of Commerce and listings for lodging and food.

Q: Can I find a pay phone in the NRA?

A: A pay phone is located at the NRA headquarters building on VA 16. You may also find pay phones at stores in Damascus, Konnarock, Troutdale, and Whitetop.

Q: Are the campgrounds open during winter months?

A: The answer for most campgrounds is no! The Recreation Fee Schedule Page also gives the open/close dates for each facility. Check that page for specific dates for each campground.

Q: Are permits required to hike and/or camp in the high country?

A: No

USDA Forest Service - George Washington and Jefferson National Forest
Last Modified:  Friday, 23 March 2007 at 18:30:15 EDT