Raven Cliff Recreation Area

How does an isolated, serene campground sound, tucked along a rushing trout-filled creek and enveloped by towering sandstone cliffs rich with local history? Raven Cliff Recreation Area Campground in Ivanhoe, Virginia, offers 20 primitive campsites designed for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. Each site comes with a gravel parking spur, picnic table, and fire grill, welcoming tent campers, small pop-up trailers, and recreational vehicles up to 25 feet. While basic amenities like portable toilets are available, there is no drinking water, so visitors should come prepared for a rustic stay.

Situated approximately 16.5 miles southeast of Wytheville, this campground is part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. It boasts access to the scenic Cripple Creek, a hotspot for fishing, wading, and tubing. The Raven Cliff Furnace Trail, a short yet engaging pathway, leads to the historic 1810 iron ore furnace, a 30-foot sandstone structure nestled amidst lush woodlands, making for an excellent family hike. Additionally, the expansive day-use area features picnic shelters and open fields for games or quiet reflection. Nearby, within a 30-minute drive, you’ll find attractions like the New River Trail State Park, expanding opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and more fishing adventures.

Whether for a brief retreat or an extended escape into the Appalachian wilderness, Raven Cliff offers a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and low-key outdoor recreation.