Dispersed camping near Arrington, Virginia features primitive sites nestled within the Blue Ridge foothills, typically between 1,000-3,000 feet elevation. The region experiences cool mountain nights even during summer months, with temperatures often dropping 15-20 degrees from daytime highs. Most campsites require campers to practice leave-no-trace principles with pack-in, pack-out waste management.
What to do
Hiking to panoramic views: Spy Rock offers one of the most rewarding summit camping experiences in central Virginia. A camper notes, "The hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it" and "It's literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you."
Fishing at stocked ponds: Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area offers fishing opportunities in a regularly stocked pond. According to a visitor, "The pond is stocked with trout in season, check DGIF site for dates" and another mentioned, "The pond has a great little trail you can walk around and at night the stars are gorgeous."
Stream exploration: Several creek-side camping spots along Forest Road 812 allow for water activities. A camper shared, "There was a creek for water if you have filter. Nice fire ring and wood." Children often enjoy wading and exploring the shallow streams during warmer months.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting provides exceptional night sky viewing. One Braley Pond camper remarked, "The stars were amazing! There was plenty of wood scattered about to use as firewood."
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer significant distance from neighbors. At Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite, a reviewer mentioned, "Nice camping spots on the Pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd."
Trail connectivity: Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 provides access to multiple trail systems. A camper noted, "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream" and another shared it has a site that is "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other."
What you should know
Permit requirements: James River Wildlife Management Area requires an access pass. A visitor clarified, "The James River WMA is primarily used by hunters and fishermen throughout the year. However, one of the benefits of this place is that it is also open to dispersed campers!"
Arrival timing: Sites fill quickly on weekends and during peak seasons. One George Washington National Forest off 812 camper advised, "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one."
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A Reservoir Road camper warned about "5 miles of dirt road to get to it" while another noted it was "very long road to get there" and "questionable for my van."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly sites: Some dispersed areas offer better family amenities than others. At Braley Pond Dispersed Camping, a parent shared, "I brought my boys out to camp this past weekend, and this place was perfect for our first dispersed campsite experience. The day use area is close enough to use the bathroom (just an open pit toilet, nothing fancy)."
Stream play areas: Shallow creeks provide natural entertainment for children. A family noted, "Though you can't swim in the lake, we did wade the stream, which was cold and clear and beautiful."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring extra clothing layers. Temperatures often drop significantly after sunset, even during summer months, so pack accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most rustic camping near Arrington requires smaller RVs or trailers. At James River Wildlife Management Area, one RVer noted, "For me being in the 29 foot classy, I opted to park it in a field/parking area at the entrance. I was the only one here all day."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. Bring extra leveling blocks and stabilizing equipment, as few sites offer perfectly flat parking areas.
Waste management planning: With no dump stations available at dispersed sites, plan trips around available dump facilities in nearby towns. Most campers must be entirely self-contained for the duration of their stay.
