When you camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’re sure to experience the beauty of the landscape around you and you’ll also get to know the wildlife. From huge pine trees to small mountain mice, keep reading to find out about some of the wildlife you’ll see in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

History of the Blue Ridge Mountains

The historic Blue Ridge Mountains formed anywhere from 1 billion to 250 million years ago with the shifting of the tectonic plates. This timeline makes our beloved mountain ridge one of the oldest in the world! These mountains span over eight of the United States and are made of mostly metamorphic rocks, such as volcanic formations and sedimentary limestone. Since the Blue Ridge Mountains have been around for so many years, wildlife has had plenty of time to call this place home.

Mammals

From 8 different kinds of shrews and 11 different bat species, to bobcats, coyotes, and foxes, you’ll be looking low and high for all types of mammals during your Blue Ridge Mountains camping adventure. These furry creatures are native to the area and while many of them look cute enough to pet, the National Park Service encourages travelers to remember that all are protected in the Blue Ridge Mountains and to observe wildlife safely and responsibly. 

Birds

If you’re staying somewhere within the Blue Ridge Mountains, such as Jellystone Park™ Golden Valley, then we would encourage you to bring your binoculars for the chance to spot some unique native birds! At least 250 bird species have been identified within the Blue Ridge Mountains, making this the perfect challenge for you and your family to see who can spot the most. If you’re looking for some fun games to play while birding, try your hand at the National Park Service’s Backyard Birding Bingo! This is a great game to play when searching for Blue Ridge Mountains wildlife.

Amphibians

During your time camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains, be sure to keep an eye out for at least 50 species of amphibians, including 12 frogs and 43 salamanders! These critters enjoy spending their time in streams, under rotting logs, and near a source of water. This means that if you want to see lots of frogs and salamanders, then the best time to look for them in the Blue Ridge Mountains is after a nice rain.

Reptiles

Tread carefully while searching for Blue Ridge Mountains wildlife, as there are not only many different species of mammals and amphibians, but there are also 20 species of reptiles. While most of these reptiles (turtles, snakes, and lizards) are harmless, there are two venomous snakes that find their home in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Northern Copperhead and Timber Rattlesnake. But have no fear, these snakes are both non-aggressive and actually avoid contact with hikers. View the full list of amphibian and reptile species on the National Park Services website here!

 
Photo courtesy of the National Park Services

Plant Life

Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains in the spring and early summer to experience all the vibrant blooms that liven up each hiking path and mountain peak. According to the National Parks Services, there are at least 1,400 species of vascular plants throughout the park. This is due partially to the ranging elevation throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, meaning that you'll see all different kinds of plant species depending on where you are in elevation.