Julian Price Memorial Park

Location: Blowing Rock · Watauga County

Address: Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 297, near Blowing Rock, NC

Phone: 828-963-5911

About: National Park Service recreation area at milepost 297 with 47-acre Price Lake, hiking, fishing, boating and picnic facilities. Camping is seasonal; check the campground’s current status before planning an overnight stay.

Access status: Operating

Hours and access: Outdoor access depends on Parkway road conditions. The picnic area is normally open year-round, with winter comfort-station closures. The NPS campground listing currently shows Closed; campgrounds normally operate May-late October, weather permitting.

Cost: Day use is free. NPS lists camping at $30 per night during the operating season; confirm current dates and charges through Recreation.gov. Boat rentals are a separate concession.

Before you go: The 2026 campground notice requires reservations and says the shower house is unavailable. Generic first-come camping or shower descriptions do not override that notice. The campground contact 828-963-5911 is listed May-October; Parkway general information is 828-348-3400.

Seasonal notes: Campground closed for winter according to the checked NPS listing; the picnic area is normally year-round with winter comfort-station closures. Check road access, campground status and the 2026 reservation notice separately.

Confirm current access and details with the operator before visiting.