Dispersed camping areas around Bedford, Virginia offer multiple free sites in addition to the more documented locations in George Washington National Forest. Less frequently mentioned spots include several clearings along Reservoir Road in Amherst County and the secluded field sites within James River Wildlife Management Area. Bedford sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with surrounding camping areas reaching up to 3,000 feet, creating varied temperature zones throughout the region. Winter overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: The road that leads to George Washington National Forest off 812 connects to several trails including access to the Appalachian Trail. "There is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!" notes camper Kelly K.
Rock scrambling opportunities: Spy Rock offers more than just camping with "a small rock scramble at the top for an extra bit of fun" according to camper Sam M. The trail includes bouldering opportunities with "some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top" though routes may be "a little under maintained and mossy."
Wildlife observation: The open fields at James River Wildlife Management Area provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially at dawn and dusk. The area includes a "water-fowl impoundment at the very end of the road by the river" where various bird species can be observed during migration seasons.
What campers like
Stone cooking features: Beyond basic fire rings, some sites feature unexpected amenities. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, campers discovered "a giant fire circle in the middle" of the site, while another camper at George Washington National Forest found "a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose."
Group-friendly layouts: Several locations accommodate multiple tents or vehicles. Jon N. notes the FR 812 site has "enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other" making it ideal for larger gatherings.
Morning scenery: The James River WMA might not be known for dramatic landscapes, but Zach K. mentions "it is pretty in the morning" and provides a peaceful start to the day. Similarly, Spy Rock campers frequently mention spectacular mornings: "Scramble up to the top for amazing sunsets and sunrises."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require appropriate clearance. SJ W. notes that Reservoir Road involves "about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it" that can be "questionable for my van." Similarly, the entrance to Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 is described as "a very rocky path, about 50 feet long."
Permit requirements: Unlike the George Washington National Forest sites, James River Wildlife Management Area requires a permit. You need to "purchase either a daily or annual access pass from the DWR website and then report which days you will be staying at the WMA—it's currently $23 for the annual pass."
Water filtration needs: Creekside sites provide water access but require proper treatment. Sites along FR 812 are described as "beautiful and creekside with fire pits" but campers should bring filtration equipment as one camper notes there's "creek for water if you have filter."
Tips for camping with families
Field sites for beginners: James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping offers open field camping that's ideal for families with young children. The area has "a field/parking area at the entrance" where you can camp without worrying about steep drops or difficult terrain.
Arrival timing: Multiple campers recommend arriving early to secure preferred sites, especially on weekends. Camper David B. advises "there are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road" suggesting families should plan accordingly to get the most accessible spots.
Phone service considerations: Cell coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At James River WMA, one camper reports "great T-Mobile service, but no ATT service—even with a powerful LTE antenna." Other locations like FR 812 have no service at all with campers noting "you loose cell service a couple miles from the site."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer suitability: While most dispersed sites can't accommodate large RVs, several locations work well for smaller rigs. Sawyer B. notes that the Forest Road 812 sites have "6-8 different sites, all are beautiful and most are right next to the creek" with enough space for small trailers or vans.
Turnaround considerations: For those with trailers, Derek D. recommends checking out "multiple spots along reservoir rd" in Amherst County, but cautions that some lack adequate turnaround space. Scout locations first when possible or research specific sites that previous RVers have confirmed as suitable.
Leveling requirements: Most sites require some leveling for comfortable camping. One camper at FR 812 notes their "spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek" but many others require blocks or leveling systems, especially after rain when softer ground can create uneven settling.
