Looking for dispersed camping near Dillwyn? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Dillwyn, including photos, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Virginia camping adventure.
A camping authorization is required to camp on WMA’s. Authorization can be obtained at any license agent or at GOOUTDOORSVIRGINIA.COM. Primitive camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive nights when occupants are engaged in authorized activities (no more than 14 nights in any 28-day period). Camping is prohibited on or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, fishing lake or at other specific sites as posted or marked on WMA maps. All campers are required to store food in such a manner that it is not accessible by wildlife. Detailed camping regulations are found in 4VAC-15-20-155. It is unlawful to leave a campfire unattended. From February 15 to April 30 campfires are allowed only between the hours of 4:00PM and midnight. The James River WMA runs for just over a mile along the north shore of the James River, and encompasses more than a thousand acres of prolific habitat. Along the entry road, check the numerous dead snags for perched raptors along with the more numerous American crows. Red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks regularly occur, as do sharp-shinned hawks and American kestrels. Ospreys prefer the area next to the river. Just upstream from the boat landing parking area, lies a freshwater marsh managed for waterfowl. Anytime during the fall and winter, visitors can encounter northern pintail, blue-winged and green-winged teal and northern shovelers here, and during the summer wood ducks. Check the vegetation nearby for common yellowthroats, which can be very numerous during migration. The river itself is worth checking for waterfowl with diving ducks, especially mergansers, joining the resident wood ducks. The river also supports monstrous eastern river cooters, which are often seen sunning along the banks. Another reptile to be on the lookout for is the rough-green snake, which can be found almost anywhere in the area. Spring and summer are the best times to search for butterflies, with monarchs passing through on their way south in the fall. The colorful American rubyspots can be seen dancing along the river, while Halloween pennants play in the fields.
The best way to find out what areas are open to dispersed camping is to contact the nearest District Office to the area you wish to visit. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads and look for a clearing or a spot with a view. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. Dispersed camping is allowed in a one-mile perimeter away from campgrounds and 200 feet from any stream. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
Guide
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.
ScoutNice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd.
Traveler
The James River WMA is primarily used by hunters and fishermen throughout the year. However, one of the benefits of this place is that it is also open to dispersed campers! You simply need to purchase either a daily or annual access pass from the DWR website and then report which days you will be staying at the WMA--it's currently $23 for the annual pass.
After turning onto Midway Mills Lane from the northern end (route 626), there is a gravel access road about .5 miles down the road that is well-maintained. It almost immediately opens up into an open field where large rigs of any size can fit. There is another site further down the road, but it is smaller and primarily used for truck campers and tents.
This is where we stay any time I need to work in-office down in Lynchburg, VA. It is 20 minutes from the closest grocery store (Food Lion), liquor store, gas station, and propane supplier (Foster Fuels).
I had great T-Mobile service, but no ATT service--even with a powerful LTE antenna. I do not have Verizon so I cannot comment on their service.
This isn't a campsite for the best "scenery" or anything (though it is pretty in the morning), but it is quiet (you might sometimes hear dogs or gunshots from hunters who are near the water-fowl impoundment at the very end of the road by the river), secluded, and convenient. If you need a place in central Virginia to camp for (almost) free, this is it.
Ranger
I camped here 3 times, the hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it. This most recent time camping we discovered that apparently TECHNICALLY camping isn’t allowed anymore, but the fire pit and tent areas still seem in use and I really doubt someone would hike up there to tell you to leave. The trailhead is tricky to find if you don’t already know where it is, and there’s no service until you get up to the top. It’s literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you.
GuideThis place is amazing for primitive camping. Good trails to hike and overland
RangerSlept at this camping spot passing through on the AT. Site just below the summit. Plenty of soft and level ground to set up your tent. Wish I was able to see the view at sunrise but it was cloudy all morning.
LegendSo I wouldn't even necessarily call this place a campground, more like a spot to camp. Spy Rock is this awesome hike about an hour away from Charlottesville, Va. It is a great hike with a small rock scramble at the top for an extra bit of fun. Not only that, but the top has almost 360 degree views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Basically, at the top before you do the rock scramble, there is a little clearing meant for camping. Sure you have to cart all of your crap to the top with you, but TOTALLY worth it once you catch that sunrise from the top of the mountain. Plus the clearing is an awesome spot to camp. Flat, open, space for a fire. What more could you ask for?
This is one of my favorite hikes in the Shenandoah Valley.
Also, as long as you're close, might as well hit up Charlottesville. I went to college at the university of virginia, so I know the area well. There is no better city than cville. Amazing food, concerts, great hiking, sports, history, and beautiful scenery. If you're looking for something to do in the area, go visit Monticello (TJ's house), go to a winery, see UVA's campus and take a historical tour. There are so many options. Not to mention the Sky Line Drive which is only a short drive away.
Do this hike, stay on the mountain, and go visit cville. I promise you won't regret it.
GuideThe views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents. There are few amenities, but a few fire pits, etc. I've heard it can get pretty crowded, but it was not when I was there in October of 2015. Scramble up to the top for amazing sunsets and sunrises.
A little research ahead of time can help, as well. You can hike from Crabtree Falls, which is longer, but alternatively, you can park at the Fish Hatchery in Montebello and make a much shorter hike to Spy Rock, a quick (though admittedly steep) 1.5 miles. There seems to be an occasional debate about whether the trail that connects the fish hatchery road to the Spy Rock trail is open, as it passes through private property, but last I check it WAS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Dillwyn, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Dillwyn, VA is James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Dillwyn, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Dillwyn, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
