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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Johns Spring Shelter is located along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Virginia. The terrain consists of forested areas with trails suitable for hiking. Nearby attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway and McAfee Knob, offering scenic views and additional hiking opportunities.

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Location

Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail is located in Virginia

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.38537012 N
80.07402875 W

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Access

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

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  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
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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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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3.5

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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
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail?

    Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail is located at 1931 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.