Best Dispersed Camping near Brunswick, MD

Several dispersed camping options exist within driving distance of Brunswick, Maryland, situated in nearby national forest lands. Veach Gap in George Washington National Forest offers free tent camping accessible via a 4-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The ridgeline sites provide views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. No water is available after the first mile of the trail, so campers must pack all necessary supplies. A recent review noted, "There are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking."

Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area in West Virginia provides more accessible dispersed camping with both drive-in and walk-in sites. Basic amenities include toilets and trash collection, though the $10 camping fee lacks clear payment instructions. While convenient for road access, some visitors find the main camping area less desirable. A visitor commented, "There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em." Compton Gap in Shenandoah National Park offers additional backcountry camping options that require permits, allow pets, but prohibit fires. Reviews indicate the site can be buggy and damp during certain seasons.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Brunswick, Maryland (3)

Show More
Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Brunswick, MD

6 Photos of 3 Brunswick Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Brunswick, MD

6 Reviews of 3 Brunswick Campgrounds


  • Jon N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2022

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    My favorite Hike in the area

    I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.

  • TJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2023

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    Amazing Campsite

    Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Shawl Gap

    Hammock Camping

    Great Hammock camping off the trail near shawls gap

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2023

    Compton Gap Backcountry camping — Shenandoah National Park

    Buggy and damp

    Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.

  • Frank G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 6, 2022

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Hike in

    I spent a night here. There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em. Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Road side site is not too bad

    As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either, However no one came by. Other than that the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site.


Guide to Brunswick

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Brunswick, Maryland, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Breathtaking Views for Dispersed Campers

Ideal Hiking Trails for Free Camping Near Brunswick

  • For those who enjoy a good hike, the Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides accessible trails that lead to various camping spots, perfect for teaching kids the basics of fishing along the way.

Perfect Spots for Hammock Camping

  • If you're into hammock camping, check out Shawl Gap, where you can find great spots off the trail that are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Brunswick, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Brunswick, MD is Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Brunswick, MD?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Brunswick, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.