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Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

2 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Flat tent sites and a wooden AT shelter mark this free, hike-in stop along the campgrounds around Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Water is the main logistical concern here: the nearest source sits roughly three miles north, so arriving with a full supply matters. The shelter is maintained but basic. Crowds vary, and reviewers note that nearby stealth sites give overflow options when the main area fills. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT is under a mile east for campers who want an alternative along the same corridor.

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Map & DirectionsJohns Spring Shelter is located in Virginia near Salem

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

37.38537012 N
80.07402875 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Johns Spring Shelter

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3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Mar. 24, 2024

Cute but very basic

As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source. However, it's a decent spot to stay the night especially if it's not crowded! There's a few other shelters and stealth sites in the area that are also great options though.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2018

nice little AT shelter

I stayed at this AT shelter when I was doing a section hike with some friends. It's not bad as far as shelters on the AT go. There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat. There is also a wooden shelter maintained by the AT, but those aren't my favorite to sleep in. Seemed nice as far as they go though.

I was hiking a little section that includes Mcafee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the AT. This spot is really awesome. It can also just be done as a day hike, so I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a 8ish mile hike. Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones. Lugging a crash pad all the way to the top isn't the most fun, but worth it if you want to get some cool bouldering in.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail by Sam M., October 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail by Sam M., October 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail by Sam M., October 29, 2018
  • (10) View All
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Johns Spring Shelter from the Appalachian Trail?

Johns Spring Shelter is directly accessible from the Appalachian Trail, making it convenient for through-hikers and section hikers. The shelter is located right along the AT corridor—you don't need to take any side trails to reach it. Simply follow the white blazes of the Appalachian Trail, and you'll come upon the shelter. For day hikers wanting to specifically visit this shelter, check local AT access points and plan your hike accordingly.

What amenities are available at Johns Spring Shelter?

Johns Spring Shelter offers basic amenities typical of an Appalachian Trail shelter. It includes a wooden shelter structure for overnight stays and relatively flat tent sites nearby. One significant limitation is the lack of a convenient water source—the closest water is located approximately 3 miles north of the shelter. The shelter is maintained but provides only fundamental protection from the elements. Be prepared to carry extra water when planning to stay here, especially during warmer months or dry periods.

What is the distance between Johns Spring Shelter and Catawba Shelter?

The specific distance between Johns Spring Shelter and Catawba Shelter is not precisely detailed, but they are located in the same general area along the Appalachian Trail. These shelters are part of the network of AT shelters in Virginia. For exact mileage, consult an up-to-date AT guidebook or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy resources. Hikers typically encounter multiple shelter options in this region, including stealth camping sites, allowing for flexible itinerary planning based on daily hiking distances.

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