Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang
Hammock campers set up camp during the park's Appalachian fall festival and run live hang demos for visitors. Free camping, music and a Saturday group supper.
Every September the hammock crew camps for free in the Grayson Highlands group campground in exchange for running hammock camping demonstrations at the park's Fall Festival. Demos run most of Saturday, while the festival itself brings live music, craft booths, food and Appalachian heritage exhibits. There is a Saturday group supper and raffle back at camp. The 2026 hang ran September 25 to 27, with the site open Thursday to Monday. A great first hang if you want to learn from people who love to show off their setups.
What to bring
- ✓ Hammock, wide tree straps and carabiners
- ✓ Rain tarp and stakes
- ✓ Underquilt or pad for the night
- ✓ Headlamp, camp chair and a dish for the potluck
- ✓ Water and anything the registration page asks for
New to sleeping in a hammock? Read how to hammock camp before you go.
Frequently asked questions
When is Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang?+
The next date hasn't been announced. Usually the last full weekend of September
Where is Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang?+
Grayson Highlands State Park, Group Campground, Mouth of Wilson, Virginia.
How much does Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang cost?+
Free camping for participants
How do I sign up for Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang?+
Post in the Hammock Forums thread
Hammock spots near Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Hang
Make a trip of it.
Yes in many areas, but camping is banned at Graveyard Fields and limited to designated sites in parts of the Pisgah Ranger District.
Yes, hammocks are allowed in campsites and designated backcountry sites with tree saver straps, but never in or on shelters.
Yes, hammock camping is common here, but you must follow the gorge camping setbacks and buy a recreation pass for overnight parking.
More hammock events nearby
One of the original Hammock Forums gatherings, running since 2007 at Grayson Highlands State Park. Cold nights, wild ponies and a big gear raffle.
A September hang at VanHoy Farms just off I-77, with hot showers, a creek and stargazing with local astronomers.
NCHH's Valentine's season winter hang at VanHoy Farms. Cold nights, warm company and hot showers nearby.
Pisgah National Forest 7.4, Great Smoky Mountains National Park 7.3, Red River Gorge (Daniel Boone National Forest) 7.1