Tent camping near Augusta Springs, Virginia offers primitive sites in the George Washington National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences cool nighttime temperatures even in summer, with overnight lows frequently dropping below 45°F in spring and fall. Dense hardwood forests dominate the landscape, providing natural windbreaks at most camping areas.
What to do
Fishing spots by foot: Head to Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping where campers appreciate both lake and creek fishing options. As one visitor noted, "I've camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek."
River kayaking access: The Canoe Landing Group Campsite provides tent sites with river access for paddlers. A camper shared, "James River State Park is beautiful! The Canoe Landing camping area is spacious with fire rings, and lots of room to set up tents right along the river. The parking area is very close by, and the bathrooms, while more primitive, are close by as well."
Stargazing without light pollution: The clear night skies at Walnut Grove campground offer excellent stargazing. According to one visitor, "The night sky was amazing. You could see stars for miles. Enjoyed a nice sunset by the river." Another camper mentioned that telescopes are available: "The beat place for star gazing! Just ask for a telescope (free at the store) and stare up at the sky for hours!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At McClintic Point Primitive Campground, campers appreciate the isolation. As one camper put it, "No neighbors. Maybe we just got lucky. I encourage." Another visitor noted, "Nice, first come, first served campground. Toilets were very clean, but just covered a hole in the ground."
Off-road access to secluded spots: More adventurous tent campers value the rugged terrain at Switzer Lake. One camper advised, "This first come first served location is ideal for off road adventures. Make sure your rig is equipped, this ain't for rookies!" Another noted, "I drove a low vehicle so it probably wasn't the best idea to make my way in but I was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days. The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in."
Spring wildflowers: At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, spring camping rewards visitors with wildflowers. A camper described, "There is a large clearing off of Hidden Valley Rd just past Poor Farm Camp A Rd that can easily accommodate multiple vehicles with 3 or 4 fire pits. In the spring, it is covered in wild hares."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many primitive sites requires planning. One Switzer Lake visitor warned, "The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles."
Wildlife precautions required: Bears are active throughout the region. A camper at Switzer Lake advised, "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times."
Cell service limitations: Many sites have minimal or no connectivity. A visitor at Hog Camp Gap reported, "Cell service is poor I have u.s. cellular and I had one bar sometimes no bars data service was in and out as well." Similarly, a Switzer Lake camper noted, "Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell."
Tips for camping with families
Water access planning: Families need to plan carefully for water sources. At Hog Camp Gap, a visitor suggested, "There is a spring but remember to boil or chemical treat the water before use is not tested for parasites another humble bacteria."
Toilet facilities: Many primitive sites lack bathroom facilities. A Hog Camp Gap camper recommended, "I also recommend investing in a portable toilet Walmart has a toilet seat that goes on 5 gallon bucket stink free bags that go on as well or you can always go do your business in the woods."
Educational opportunities: The visitor centers provide learning experiences for children. A camper at Walnut Grove shared, "My 4 yr old spent hours playing with all the little animals the ranger station had."
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most dispersed sites have tight access for larger vehicles. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, a visitor in a van noted, "Wasn't too hard to get there and park in our van. Peaceful for the most part (a few campers were there). No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."
Distance from vehicle to tent site: When tent camping with an RV parked nearby, prepare for walking. A visitor at Walnut Grove cautioned, "The only possible negative which is only negative if, like me, you take too much stuff, is that it's quite a walk from the parking area to the campsites. And it's downhill from the car to the sites."
Using wheelbarrows for gear transport: Some established sites provide equipment to help transport camping gear. A Walnut Grove camper explained, "There are 2 wheelbarrows available for use, but navigating a wheelbarrow full of camping gear down a hill with stairs (or back up at the end of your stay) isn't easy. Make sure you plan accordingly!"
