Dispersed camping near Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia offers terrain ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet elevation throughout Jefferson and Washington National Forests. Weather conditions fluctuate dramatically with season and elevation, with mountain camping spots frequently experiencing temperature drops 10-15°F cooler than surrounding valleys. Forest roads leading to campsites often require navigation across unbridged water crossings that become impassable after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Steele Creek, campers can access swimming holes and small waterfalls within walking distance of their sites. A reviewer noted, "There is a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site, that had the best swimming hole at the end of it, where you can jump in. It has a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience."
Stargazing at higher elevations: Mountain camping locations provide exceptional night sky viewing when weather cooperates. While camping at Whitetop Mountain, one visitor remarked, "Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze." The open areas at higher elevations offer unobstructed views of constellations with minimal light pollution.
Wildlife observation: Campers frequently encounter native wildlife in less developed camping areas. At Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, ponies roam freely near camping sites. A camper explained, "Variety of types of campsites. Amazing sights and wild ponies! The AT provides some great hiking."
What campers like
Above-cloud experiences: Higher elevation camping offers unique weather experiences where campers find themselves above cloud formations. At Whitetop Mountain, a camper described: "The next morning was still foggy. As we're getting ready to head out for the day, all of a sudden the sun came out and we were ABOVE THE CLOUDS. It was absolutely stunning."
Creek-side sites: Many dispersed camping areas feature sites directly alongside mountain streams. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, campers appreciate "a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night."
Separation from crowds: Despite popularity, numerous dispersed sites remain relatively uncrowded, especially mid-week. One camper at Upper Creek noted, "I went during the week and had the entire area to myself. The ground wood for campfires is very abundant and many of the sites are appropriate for groups."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads frequently challenge vehicles with low clearance. At Scales Trailhead Basecamp, a reviewer warned, "The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly with little warning. A visitor to Whitetop Mountain advised, "I'll leave photos of the worst spots to help you decide whether or not you should drive up to the top. We drove our 2WD Ford Maverick up the rocky road and it handled it just fine."
Safety awareness: While most camping experiences are trouble-free, maintaining situational awareness remains important. One camper at Washington & Jefferson shared, "Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek's sound is pleasant. No network at all."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible creek sites: For families with children, sites near shallow water features provide natural entertainment. At Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest, a visitor noted, "This is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping... There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the road."
Avoiding weekend crowds: Family camping improves with timing selections. One visitor mentioned, "Traffic wasn't bad through the week but weekend it was busy. The next site up had over 25 cars and they were partying pretty loud."
Established sites with infrastructure: Families benefit from choosing dispersed sites with established facilities. At Steele Creek, a reviewer observed, "There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek, all of which appear to be well maintained, each with a fire ring."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: RV campers should research site access before attempting forest roads. One camper at Old NC 105 Dispersed mentioned, "Easy pull-in spots for cars and vans next to the road, several with great views of the valley and gorge. Most have primitive fire rings."
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites present difficulties for larger vehicles needing level ground. A reviewer noted, "Only downsides are good view sites right on the road, and hard to find level ground. Popular spot for vans."
Clearance considerations: Most forest roads require vehicles with appropriate ground clearance. One RVer shared, "The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine."
