Dispersed camping options near Craigsville, Virginia offer a genuine wilderness experience in the George Washington National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet with cool mountain nights even in summer. Most access roads require careful driving, with several sites becoming inaccessible during wet weather without high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping, campers can enjoy lake and stream fishing. As one visitor noted, "The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed."
Riverside camping: Canoe Landing Group Campsite offers camping along the James River with easy water access. A camper shared, "Camping along the river at the Canoe Landing Campground is great in the slower seasons. The sites are pretty close together so I'm sure it would be much more cramped when it's busy but it's a beautiful place. And you can fish right off the bank less than 50 yards from your tent."
Hiking trails: Near Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, visitors can access multiple forest trails. According to a review, "There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream." The site offers "a wonderful group site tucked back a couple miles from 501" with enough space for multiple tents.
What campers like
Secluded spots: Many tent campers appreciate the privacy at McClintic Point Primitive Campground. One camper mentioned, "No neighbors. Maybe we just got lucky. I encourage." Another noted the campground "seems to stay chillier than the surrounding area. It's in a valley and two sites back up to the lake."
Night sky viewing: The best tent camping near Craigsville, Virginia offers exceptional stargazing. At Walnut Grove, "The night sky was amazing. You could see stars for miles," according to one camper. Another visitor at a nearby site said, "The beat place for star gazing! Just ask for a telescope (free at the store) and stare up at the sky for hours!"
Group accommodations: Several dispersed sites accommodate larger groups. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, 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." The clearing is large with "several flat areas for tents."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited or no cell coverage. A visitor to Switzer Lake reported, "Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell." At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, "No cell coverage. Highly recommend for primitive camping."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active throughout the area. According to one camper at Switzer Lake, "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times." Food storage is essential at all sites.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by site and season. One Switzer Lake visitor warned, "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you."
Tips for camping with families
Bathhouse access: When camping with children, consider Walnut Grove at James River State Park. A family camper noted, "Bathhouse looked like it was fairly new. Loved that the showers were individual stalls accessed on the outside of the bathhouse." Another mentioned, "The bathhouse was immaculate and the campsite large enough for two tents to share comfortably."
Gear transportation: Some sites require walking gear from parking areas. A Walnut Grove visitor cautioned, "The only possible negative which is only negative if, like me, you take too much stuff, is that it's quite a walk from the parking area to the campsites. And it's downhill from the car to the sites."
Water activities: Families enjoy swimming and paddling options during warmer months. At Canoe Landing, "We stayed at Paddy's Creek. Site was super clean and short walk to the bathhouse that was pristine. Water pumps/faucets are at every other site so you don't have to go far."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for vans: Some dispersed sites can accommodate small vans despite primitive conditions. A visitor to Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area said, "Wasn't too hard to get there and park in our van. Peaceful for the most part (a few campers were there). No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."
Off-road preparedness: Most tent camping near Craigsville requires appropriate vehicles for access. A Switzer Lake camper advised, "This first come first served location is ideal for off road adventures. Make sure your rig is equipped, this ain't for rookies!"
Camp setup timing: Arriving early is essential for securing preferred sites. "Switzer is a nice quiet place and perfect for big or small groups that never disappoints. It's also empty on weeknights," according to a regular visitor.
