Willville sign

This way to Willville

Named by James Steptoe Langhorn for the beautiful expansive meadows that surround the Dan River the aptly named town, Meadows of Dan has a motorcycle campground that can be a home away from home for any two-wheeled (or three if that’s your thing) rider.  With cabins, bunkhouses, and plenty of room for campers and tents everyone can find a spot to lay their head for as long as they need at Willville Motorcycle Campground.

Tucked off the side of route 58 off the Blue Ridge Parkway a sign points you between the trees to a hidden oasis of like minded people.  After winding a few hundred feet on a gravel path that only accommodates motorcycles, riders, and their gear, you enter a cove of grass surrounded by some old trees that have survived the clearing by Will.  The few select trees that remain provide enough shade and cover to protect from the elements but are sparse enough to open up the campground to a communal feeling with no assigned spots.

To get a spot to pitch a tent or open up your camper at Willville you just need to pull in and pay your 15 dollars, 22 dollars if you are 2 up.  In order to get a spot in a bunkhouse or cabin a reservation is highly suggested.  You 15 dollars will get you a hot shower in the bathhouse, access to actual toilets, a great campfire, and access to a brain-trust of travelers with stories and advise.  For an extra 2 dollars you can have a sausage or chicken biscuit waiting for you in the morning to go with the community coffee that is is always available.

Extra bits of hospitality that you wont find at many other places include Wills’ help, knowledge and spare parts.  Will seems to always be leading rides around some of the great roads in the area and supplying people with endless advice of some of the lesser known roads and trails that can satisfy everyone from touring riders to those that enjoy a little gravel in their travel.

When you do finally leave the confortable confines of the camping oasis you will find yourself surrounded by some of the best riding Virginia has to offer.  The Blue Ridge Parkway, the Crooked Highway, Lovers Leap, Chateau Morissette for the wine lovers, and towns like Floyd Virginia. and Andy Griffith’s hometown of  Mount Airy  (Mayberry) North Carolina are all just a quick curvy jaunt away.

Whether you are stopping in for a night as you pass through, or want to enjoy a few nights and explore the area by day Willville Bike camp is certainly a place that should be considered.