Best Dispersed Camping near Clintwood, VA

Dispersed camping near Clintwood, Virginia offers opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Jefferson National Forest and surrounding Wildlife Management Areas at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The terrain features mixed hardwood forests with oak, maple, and hickory trees predominant throughout camping areas. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summer months typically see daytime highs in the 80s.

What to do

Fishing at multiple elevations: Access to both creek and lake fishing provides variety for anglers visiting Hidden Valley WMA. "The lake is calm and clean for water recreation," notes reviewer Kathleen B., making it suitable for multiple water activities beyond just fishing.

Creek exploration: Little Tumbling Creek offers opportunities for wading and exploring small waterfalls. One camper described it as a "quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery," making it ideal for those seeking water-based relaxation without crowds.

Wildlife observation: The region's Wildlife Management Areas serve as habitat for diverse species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. While camping at Hidden Valley WMA, visitors can experience a "pretty fern filled Forest and lake" according to Zoey T., creating natural settings for wildlife photography.

What campers like

Natural fire materials: Many campsites feature abundant deadfall for campfires. At Little Tumbling Creek, campers appreciate the "flat field area for camping" with "several spots by creek for van or tent camping" as noted by Betsy W., making it convenient for those who prefer camping near water sources.

Seclusion factor: The remote nature of sites provides privacy rarely found at developed campgrounds. Sean mentioned Little Tumbling Creek is a "small campsite that I believe is on hunting land" with a "pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents," noting "it is very secluded from people."

Water proximity: Camping areas frequently offer sites near creeks or lakes. Zach C. appreciated camping "next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery" at Little Tumbling Creek, providing both ambiance and practical water access.

What you should know

Access challenges: Some camping areas require navigating steep roads. As Zoey T. reports about Hidden Valley WMA, "the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it," indicating larger vehicles may struggle on access roads.

Permit requirements: Different camping areas have varying permit requirements. At Hidden Valley WMA, Rhys R. notes "camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account)."

Limited connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent or nonexistent at most sites. Sean warns that at Little Tumbling Creek there is "absolutely no Verizon service at the site," requiring campers to plan accordingly for emergency communications.

Tips for camping with families

Fire safety practices: Established fire rings at most sites provide contained areas for campfires. At Hidden Valley WMA, Betsy W. noted "rocks for fire pits" are available, though she also mentioned there are "no tables," so families should bring portable tables for meals and activities.

Bathroom planning: Facilities vary significantly between sites. Betsy W. mentioned a "Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock" at Hidden Valley WMA, while other sites may have no facilities, requiring appropriate preparation.

Security considerations: Remote locations may experience occasional unwanted visitors. As Zoey T. observed at Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area, there are "a few peculiar characters that come in and out of the parking lot at night," suggesting families might prefer camping mid-week when fewer visitors are present.

Tips from RVers

Space limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller RVs but have limited space for larger rigs. At Little Tumbling Creek, Sean described finding "a clearing" suitable for camping but noted the approach requires passing "two private properties on the road" before reaching the camping area.

Level parking considerations: Look for sites with level parking areas, particularly at creek-side locations. Little Tumbling Creek offers what Betsy W. described as a "flat field area for camping" which works well for smaller recreational vehicles.

Bear protection: Wildlife precautions are necessary when camping in RVs. At Hidden Valley WMA, Rhys R. mentioned "bear bins" are available at the campground, indicating campers should secure food properly even when staying in vehicles.