Make a Blue Ridge Mountain Escape in Southwest Virginia

Blue Ridge Mountain RV adventures await you.

There’s a reason the Blue Ridge Mountains enjoy a compelling mystique among travelers. From spellbinding views of mist-blanketed hills and valleys to historic landmarks that give you valuable insight into Virginia’s vibrant past, this rugged region is rightfully shrouded in myth and legend.

Blue Ridge Mountain RV Trip — Where Nature and History Blend

Be sure to visit the Humpback Rocks for panoramic views of the rugged peaks. The area also served as an important landmark in the 1800s, guiding wagon trains past the Howardsville Turnpike — traces of the centuries-old route can still be seen today. Humpback Rocks is also home to numerous hiking trails and an outdoor farm museum that sheds light on mountain farming in the 19th century.

Lovers of the great outdoors should visit James River and Otter Creek. Here, you can get closer to a variety of plants and wildlife along the Trail of Trees, James River Canal Trails and Otter Lake Loop.

Mabry mill with fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto

No trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains is complete without a visit to Mabry Mill (above). This structure once operated as a sawmill, gristmill and community center for the Meadows of Dan region. Today, it’s a gathering place for musicians and dancers on Sunday afternoons. Walk on the trail near the mill to find historical exhibits.

Listen to the Best in Bluegrass

Bluegrass is big here, and for good reason. The area has produced more bluegrass musicians per capita than anywhere else. At the Blue Ridge Music Center in Galax, you’ll be pulled in by the sweet sounds of the fiddle, banjo and guitar. Inside, visitors can enjoy live performances, explore interactive exhibits and watch films in the theater.

The banjo is a fixture among bluegrass folk bands. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto.

If your ears are craving more, head to Ferrum on the fourth Saturday in October for the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival. Featuring performers, artisans, foods and an array of activities, this charming festival celebrates Blue Ridge’s folk traditions and musical heritage.

To the east of Ferrum, Leesville Lake attracts boaters and angling enthusiasts to its gleaming shores. Known locally as the “Blue Jewel near the Blue Ridge Mountains,” this Virginia lake teems with muskie, northern pike, saugeye, crappie and bass. The 3,270-acre lake is a great place for boating and kayaking.