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.