Primitive camping near Buchanan, Virginia offers several secluded sites throughout George Washington National Forest, primarily along Forest Roads where the Appalachian Mountains create deep valleys with elevation changes of 1,500-2,000 feet. Many dispersed sites feature natural water sources requiring filtration, with creek-side camping options that provide ambient water sounds but can become inaccessible during heavy rain periods common from April through June.
What to do
Creek exploration: Most sites along Forest Road 812 feature creek access perfect for water collection or cooling off. A camper at George Washington National Forest off 812 noted, "Showed up around 5pm and were the only ones there. 6-8 different sites, all are beautiful and most are right next to the creek."
Hiking to viewpoints: The region connects to extensive trail systems beyond the Appalachian Trail. At Spy Rock, a visitor reported, "The hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it... It's literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you."
Wildlife watching: Spring and early summer camping provides opportunities for wildlife observation. One camper at Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area mentioned, "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 campers like
Privacy between sites: Many primitive sites offer good separation from neighbors. A visitor at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 shared, "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out. There is a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other."
Fire features: Several sites have well-established fire rings, some with unique characteristics. At George Washington National Forest off 812, one camper wrote, "It was clean, creek for water if you have filter. Nice fire ring and wood."
Low traffic on weekdays: Visiting during weekdays significantly improves site availability. A camper noted, "Did not see another person" during their May visit, while others reported that "80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many forest roads deteriorate after winter or heavy rains. A camper at Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite cautioned, "Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close which when I drive down a really long dirt road that is questionable for my van, i want it to be private and this was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it."
No cellphone coverage: Communication services disappear in most camping areas. One visitor reported, "No cell service(T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Water filtration essential: Creek water requires proper treatment. Campers should bring filtration systems as one visitor recommended: "creek for water if you have filter."
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for creek-side sites: Families prefer locations with stream access, which fill quickly. A visitor at Sherwood Lake WV observed, "Around a dozen sites with Rick fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only. These are located along the road to Lake Sherwood in Neola WV off Rt. 92. First come first serve."
Pack extra trash bags: Previous visitors sometimes leave waste behind. One camper warned about finding "their mess and a pile of used wipes on the ground" along trails near campsites.
Choose sites with flat areas: Some locations offer better tent placement options. A visitor commented on finding "Nice camping spot in George Washington NF. There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in... The spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions limit larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Johns Spring Shelter, a visitor noted the limitations: "As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source. However, it's a decent spot to stay the night especially if it's not crowded!"
Some sites require high clearance: Forest road access often demands vehicles with appropriate capabilities. A camper shared: "Plenty of spots and the road is mostly paved. Easily accessible with great hiking and water nearby."
Winter camping challenges: Cold weather camping requires additional preparation. One camper at Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area explained, "I have stayed here twice, once in the spring and once in the winter. Both times, the main camping area was empty."
