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Best Dispersed Camping near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

31 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist within driving distance of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, primarily in Virginia and West Virginia. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area in West Virginia offers free roadside camping with level, grassy sites, though camping fees are posted but collection appears inconsistent. Squirrel Gap Road and Squirrel Hollow Road in West Virginia provide primitive drive-in tent sites in forested areas suitable for cars and small trailers.

Shenandoah National Park permits backcountry camping with a required permit, while the nearby George Washington National Forest hosts several free dispersed options including Veach Gap, which requires a 4-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. Little Fort Campground offers a more established dispersed experience with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. As noted in feedback on The Dyrt, "You select a campsite by flipping a washer on a hook on the board from green to red." Most sites lack drinking water and facilities—all follow pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent throughout these areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (14)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

35 Photos of 14 Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

31 Reviews of 14 Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park 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.

  • John R.
    Aug. 20, 2022

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Love this National Forest!

    There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!

    You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!

    One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!

    Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!

  • Jacqueline F.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Amazing drive and lots of wildlife

    We only stayed one night, but wish we could have stayed more! The campground offers so many different trails and breathtaking scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got there, we saw several deer. I’d almost say they were friendly :) No electric hookups, but the weather was beautiful! We hiked part of the Appalachian Trail which gets pretty steep. I didn’t use the bathrooms or the coin operated showers as we have them in our RV, but they had the services available. It is a drive through the mountains to get to the campsite, but very well worth it for us!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Beautiful spot!

    Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours. Unfortunately there was a decent bit of trash we cleaned up. The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Squirrel Hollow Road Camping

    Convenient off the road boondocking

    Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by cat or with a small teardrop trailer.

    True boondocking, haul it in, pack it out. Evidence of a cat hole in the site we picked

    Sites were quiet at night. Some traffic related to logging activity. Looks like a popular weekend camp spot for locals.

    We camped during the week and had nobody else camping on weekdays.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed

    It's quiet

    Quite a few miles down Squirrel Gap Rd. There is another sunnier sight a little before this one. But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep. Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood.

  • 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.

Guide to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Dispersed camping near the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots and tips for your adventure.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides a level and grassy site, perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars. The area is accessible via drive-in or walk-in routes, making it convenient for various camping styles.
  • For breathtaking views, the Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site is worth the four-mile hike, rewarding you with stunning vistas of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. The effort is well worth it for the scenery and tranquility.
  • Squirrel Hollow Road Camping is conveniently located less than a mile from a paved highway, offering easy access while still providing a quiet atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland

  • Always check for any required permits before heading to places like Buchanan State Forest, where some areas may have specific regulations despite being labeled as free camping.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at sites such as Compton Gap Backcountry Camping, which offers a more rustic experience with no toilets or trash services. Bring everything you need and pack out what you bring in.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, consider Little Fort Campground, where you can enjoy a flat campsite with a picnic table and fire pit, although be mindful of nearby off-road vehicle trails that may create some noise.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Fishing is a great activity at Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, where families can teach kids the basics while enjoying the natural surroundings.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails at Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site, which not only offer a good workout but also lead to some of the best views in the region.
  • For those who enjoy stargazing, the remote locations like Squirrel Hollow Road Camping provide minimal light pollution, making it an excellent spot to observe the night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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