Best Dispersed Camping near St. Paul, VA

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near St. Paul, Virginia, with several primitive sites available in the surrounding public lands. Hidden Valley WMA requires a Virginia Wildlife Access permit ($4) for camping up to 14 days and features established fire rings, trash receptacles, and a portable toilet near the lake. Washington & Jefferson National Forest offers free dispersed sites along Bear Creek with large, shaded campsites surrounded by mountains. Little Tumbling Creek provides secluded camping in a clearing with access to fishing opportunities and waterfalls upstream at Laurel Bed Lake.

Most dispersed sites in this region lack basic amenities. No drinking water, picnic tables, or permanent restroom facilities exist at most locations. According to reviews, "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared." Fire rings are common at established sites, though campers should bring their own firewood or collect dead wood where permitted. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent at most sites. Several campers noted the need to "go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high."

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. Scales Trailhead Basecamp requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles for the rocky 45-minute drive from the main road. Whitetop Mountain offers spectacular sunset views but experiences strong winds; campers recommend seeking shelter in nearby pine forests. The Washington & Jefferson sites are easily accessible but positioned close to roads where headlights may disturb campers. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles, as trash accumulation has been reported at several locations. Wildlife sightings include wild ponies at Scales Trailhead. The nearby towns of Damascus and Butler provide basic supplies including groceries and fuel.

Best Dispersed Sites Near St. Paul, Virginia (8)

    1. Hidden Valley WMA

    3 Reviews
    Willis, VA
    14 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available."

    "This spot is very nice, close to the water’s edge (although no camping allowed lakeside). There’s quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo. We had the place to ourselves which was really great."

    2. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    6 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 265-5100

    "At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."

    "Coordinates take you right to the site and there’s a small gravel road you can pull into. The campsite is directly off the forest road, maybe 20 feet."

    3. Little Tumbling Creek

    3 Reviews
    Saltville, VA
    35 miles
    Website

    "There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing. Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents."

    "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping."

    4. Whitetop

    5 Reviews
    Whitetop, VA
    43 miles

    "Nice spot to pitch a tent or for car camping. Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets."

    "Great view but the drive in is a bumpy rock terrain so some clearance is a must .

    Signal at the hill top T-mobile 2 bars LTE"

    5. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

    6. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    49 miles

    "Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.

    The campground itself is great! "

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near St. Paul, VA

23 Reviews of 8 St. Paul Campgrounds



Guide to St. Paul

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near St. Paul, Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots perfect for tent camping, each with its unique charm.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near St. Paul

  • Enjoy fishing and hiking at Little Tumbling Creek, where you can explore beautiful waterfalls and a flat field area ideal for setting up camp.
  • Experience the stunning views and starry nights at Whitetop, a perfect spot for sunset watching and stargazing after a day of hiking.
  • Take advantage of the nearby trails and scenic routes at Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, where you can hike, cycle, and fish in a tranquil environment.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near St. Paul, Virginia

  • Always come prepared with enough water and supplies, as places like Scales Trailhead Basecamp do not have running water at the sites.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and practice Leave No Trace principles, especially at Hidden Valley WMA, where some campers have noted the importance of keeping the area clean.
  • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider Hurrican Road Roadside Camp, which offers a quiet atmosphere but requires careful navigation to reach.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near St. Paul, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near St. Paul, VA is Hidden Valley WMA with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near St. Paul, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near St. Paul, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.