Dispersed camping near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers overnight options within the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountain ranges at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with summer temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations than valley locations. Many primitive sites require driving on unpaved forest roads that can become challenging after rain.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: The Veach Gap backpacking site requires a 4-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain but rewards with "breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains" according to TJ W., who visited in November when "fall leaves changing and great weather" enhanced the experience.
Fishing in local waters: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides fishing opportunities within walking distance of camping areas. Frank G. notes, "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."
Wildlife watching: South Fork Shenandoah River offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. One camper at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites reported, "Two deers came to visit us at night. Killed a cottonmouth buried it since I didn't know how to properly cook and eat it. Saw Momma and two baby black bears."
What campers like
Riverside locations: South Fork Shenandoah River campsites sit directly on the water. "The site at the end of the road is beautiful. We stayed right at the end of the road, since we have a 30 foot RV, but there are sites you can walk to all the way down the river," reports Justine I. Another camper adds that sites have "fire pits. No other amenities but it was exactly what we were looking for."
Peaceful forest settings: Squirrel Hollow Road Camping offers "large campsites and relatively quite" according to Jon D. Kevin C. notes these are "true boondocking, haul it in, pack it out" sites that remain "quiet at night" despite "some traffic related to logging activity."
Established dispersed sites: Little Fort Campground provides an organized dispersed camping experience. "This is a nice little spot. You select a campsite by flipping a washer on a hook on the board from green to red. Flip it back when you leave," explains one camper. Sites include "a fire ring, a picnic table, and a flat area to pitch a tent."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack drinking water and restrooms. A camper at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites warns about the park entrance fee: "This place was $30 just to enter and it was super duper packed. We turned around and found a great boondocking site nearby."
Weather considerations: Spring backpacking in Shenandoah requires preparation for variable conditions. Matt P. advises, "Make sure to hang your food. There are plenty of black bears in the area." Spring camping means heavy creek flows - "We experienced everything from warm summer-like weather to chilly winter winds."
Cell service limitations: Most dispersed sites have no cell coverage. A camper at Little Fort Campground notes, "On this app it says T-Mobile access, I'm a T-Mobile customer, no reception at all but drive 5 minutes back down the mountain and you're good to go."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed provides accessible car camping. Dexter V. describes it as "right off the road" with a "decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood," making it suitable for families who want an easier camping experience.
Wildlife education opportunities: Shenandoah National Park offers children opportunities to learn about local ecosystems. Teresa K. notes the park "is suitable for novice campers to experienced off-trail campers. You'll never tire of the wonders this beautiful piece of America has to offer."
Water activities: South Fork Shenandoah River provides swimming opportunities alongside camping. One visitor reports, "Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Forest service roads leading to many dispersed sites can be difficult for larger vehicles. Little Fort Campground has "parking spots next to" the sites, but one RVer notes these are "not big-rig friendly" and requires careful navigation on "long and winding road to get there with no service so be cautious."
Space limitations: Cedar Creek Trail dispersed campsite offers limited space but peaceful surroundings. Spencer W. reports, "After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there. Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring."
Seasonal access: Heavy rains can make sites unusable. A camper at South Fork Shenandoah River noted, "I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable."
