Camping in the rain, wind, fog or other cold temperatures is not an experience people usually seek. Despite every effort to time trips with favorable weather, nature doesn’t always oblige with sunny days and moderate temperatures. But less than perfect weather doesn’t mean that camping in the rain won’t be fun.

Plan For It

The first step is to plan. Even if the weather apps predict sun, it never hurts to pack clothes you can layer, extra tarps, a pop-up canopy, water-proof containers and other gear that you need to stay warm and dry. Along with all of that, throw in a pack of playing cards or travel-size games. For smaller children, maybe some crayons and paper will let them share their artistic talents. Otherwise, if you have access to Wi-Fi, individual devices become the default for entertainment. Of course, personal time may be just what you want. So, pack the books or magazines you’ve been meaning to read as well.

If you don’t remember to plan for a rainy day, check the campground where you’re staying. We have games and books that are available to borrow in our camp store. I know other campgrounds offer the same thing. Some even have activities that your family can enjoy. 

Take a Road Trip

Also, research the area you’re visiting to find out what options you have if rain washes away your chance at hiking or other outdoor activities. We have a Things to Do section on our website to make sure our guests make the most out of their visit, regardless of the weather.

From our campground and motel, which is right on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Blue Ridge Music Center is a popular destination. A museum and free afternoon concerts easily replace sunny-day plans. There are also many small towns with museums, galleries and shops within an easy driving distance of us. Mt. Airy, NC and Galax, VA have movie theaters and bowling alleys. Hillsville has a Wellness Center. For a one-day guest fee, you can work out, walk, swim or join an exercise class.

Another option is Roanoke. In less than two hours, you can enjoy downtown Roanoke’s shops, museums and restaurants. My family’s favorite stops in Roanoke are the transportation museum as well as the science museum. Inside the science museum, you can pay one fee to play in the arcade or vintage pinball room all day. It’s well worth it!

Go Ahead with Your Plans

Barring a severe storm of some kind, why not go ahead with your plans rain or shine? The outdoors is beautiful no matter the weather or season. Taking a hike or paddle or bike ride in less than perfect weather is another experience to share, another way to interact with family and friends, another way to see the world around us. We’ve had plenty of guests who enjoyed an adventure in inclement weather as much as they would have on a sunny day. And, like many campgrounds, we have laundry facilities and hot showers. So, everyone can clean up and dry out.

Treat Yourself

Too often we don’t give ourselves permission to relax. So let a rainy, camping day be a guilt-free indulgence of, as the Italians say, “dolce far niente.” Quite simply, the sweetness of doing nothing.  

No matter how you camp – RV, cabin, motel or tent – a little planning means that camping in the rain won’t deter you from having the vacation you deserve.

Click here to learn more about Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground and plan your getaway along the Blue Ridge Parkway.