Hidden Valley Wildlife Management Area offers dispersed camping near Keokee, Virginia at an elevation of approximately 2,500 feet. The camping area sits beside a 61-acre lake and features a wooded setting with abundant fern growth. During summer months, the area remains cooler than surrounding lowlands, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hidden Valley WMA provides access to a calm, clean lake ideal for fishing. According to Kathleen B., the "Lake is calm and clean for water recreation" and offers a peaceful environment for anglers.
Nature exploration: The surrounding forest features dense fern growth and diverse plant life. Rhys R. noted the area is "very nice, close to the water's edge" and "peaceful and pretty," making it suitable for photography and wildlife observation.
Campfire gatherings: Visitors can collect fallen wood for campfires at designated sites. As Betsy W. mentions, there are "plenty of dead wood for fires" and "rocks for fire pits," though picnic tables are not available.
What campers like
Privacy and quietness: Hidden Valley WMA offers a secluded camping experience away from crowds. Zoey T. describes it as a "private location" in a "pretty and quiet" setting, noting the "pretty quiet cool fern filled Forrest and lake."
Minimal development: Campers appreciate the primitive, natural setting. Rhys R. shares, "We had the place to ourselves which was really great," highlighting the undeveloped character that appeals to those seeking solitude.
Clean facilities: Despite being dispersed camping, the area maintains basic cleanliness. Betsy W. noted the area has "trash cans available" and a "Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock," providing minimal but functional amenities.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Camping at Hidden Valley WMA requires a Virginia Wildlife Access pass with camping authorization. Rhys R. explains: "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)."
Road conditions: Access involves challenging terrain that may limit some vehicles. Zoey T. cautions that "the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles" and that their "short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it."
Site availability: The camping area contains limited designated spots. According to Zoey T., there are "4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites," so arriving early during peak seasons is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety: The presence of bear bins indicates active wildlife in the area. Rhys R. notes there are "quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo," so proper food storage and wildlife precautions are essential for family safety.
Water activities: The lake provides recreation opportunities for children, but lacks designated swimming areas. Kathleen B. found the lake "calm and clean for water recreation," making it suitable for supervised water activities.
Security awareness: Some visitors report occasional concerning activity. Zoey T. mentioned "a few peculiar (methy) characters that come in and out of the parking lot at night," suggesting families should maintain awareness of surroundings.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The camping area accommodates smaller RVs but presents challenges for larger units. According to Zoey T., who brought a "short bus Skoolie," the steep road grade caused "some troubles," indicating potential issues for longer or heavier vehicles.
Duration flexibility: Free camping near Keokee, Virginia at Hidden Valley WMA permits extended stays. Betsy W. mentions camping is available "up to 14 days" with the proper permit, making it suitable for longer trips.
No hookups or services: The camping area lacks all standard RV amenities. Visitors should arrive fully self-contained, as the site offers no drinking water, electric hookups, or dump stations, with only a portable toilet available for waste management.
