Rustic camping near Covington, Virginia offers primitive sites throughout the George Washington National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Forest service roads in this area typically open April through November, though some close during winter months due to snow and ice conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: The Pedlar River along Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite provides multiple fishing spots. "Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd," notes Derek D.
Stream exploration: Several sites along George Washington National Forest off 812 feature small creek access. "We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing," reports Kenlei B. after her anniversary trip.
Summit hiking: For experienced hikers, Spy Rock offers challenging terrain with substantial rewards. "The hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it," warns Emily T., who adds, "It's literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many sites along Forest Road 812 provide secluded options. "I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. You lose cell service a couple miles from the site. I didn't see anyone else near this site when I stayed," shares Ryan L.
Natural features: The Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 offers larger open spaces with stream access. "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream," according to David B.
Unexpected amenities: Some sites include unique features built by previous campers. Sawyer B. describes, "There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to most sites requires navigating unpaved forest roads. SJ W. notes about Reservoir Road, "This was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it."
Site competition: During peak seasons, arrive early to secure preferred locations. Kelly K. recommends persistence: "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional sites & we got one for 3 nights."
Water planning: While some sites have creek access, potable water is scarce. "There is not a water source too close to Johns Spring Shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North," Sam M. advises Appalachian Trail hikers.
Offline navigation: Cell service disappears several miles before reaching most sites. Jon N. confirms, "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Tips for camping with families
Alternative spaces: If primary camping areas are full, look for secondary options. "We didn't arrive until late afternoon but we were able to snag one down toward the end of the road," reports Sarah and James H., who found a spot "nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring."
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, black bears, and small mammals. Clayton S. observed that in spring, Poor Farm's main camping area "is covered in wild hares."
Camp cleanliness: Unfortunately, previous visitors don't always follow Leave No Trace principles. Sarah and James H. noted their "only complaint - that whoever used it last decided to walk a few yards down the trail and use the bathroom right in the middle of the path, leaving their mess and a pile of used wipes on the ground."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate small to medium vehicles only. Jim M. found Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area suitable, noting it was "a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice. Quiet spot with a nice grassy level area."
Clearance requirements: Forest roads often have rough sections requiring higher clearance vehicles. SJ W. recommends, "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one."
Seasonal challenges: Wet conditions can make forest roads impassable for larger vehicles. Michael C. advises checking conditions: "Happened to pull up and snag this beauty. Had one other person later on drive by while I was scorching a fire, felt bad snagged it from them but hey oh well."
