There are adequate campgrounds in the area. Most can be busy on weekends, so you should reserve in advance. My personal preference is either Grayson Highlands State Park or Grindstone National Forest Campground.

There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in this area, which include the Appalachian Trail. Also, if you bike, consider the Virginia Creeper Trail. Shuttle services and bike rentals are available in Damascus.

If you are interested in climbing Mount Rogers, the best trailhead is in Grayson Highlands State Park. I consider this at least an intermediate hike, but you don’t need to do the whole route to get great views and see the wild horses.

Damascus is also the closest metropolitan area and will have both food and fuel. Abington is a little further, but it is significantly larger and will have more to offer.