Best Tent Camping near Damascus, VA

Damascus, Virginia offers several tent camping options within the surrounding mountains and forests. Washington & Jefferson National Forest provides dispersed tent camping areas along Bear Creek, with large, shaded sites surrounded by mountains. These primitive tent campsites are free and don't require permits, making them popular for backcountry tent camping enthusiasts. Scales Trailhead Basecamp offers another dispersed camping option with drive-in and hike-in access specifically for tent campers. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area in nearby Tennessee provides free tent-only camping with water access, though reviews note significant road noise during busy periods.

Most tent campsites near Damascus are primitive with minimal amenities. Washington & Jefferson National Forest dispersed sites have fire rings but no drinking water, picnic tables, or toilets. Campers must bring water filters to use creek water or pack in their own supplies. Cell service is nonexistent at most sites, with reception only available in Damascus town or from higher elevations. The area experiences typical mountain weather patterns with cool nights even in summer. Tent campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, as several reviewers mentioned trash issues at the dispersed sites.

The tent camping experience near Damascus offers excellent access to outdoor recreation. According to reviews, the Washington & Jefferson National Forest sites provide easy access to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, both just minutes away. One visitor reported, "Most campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains." The area also offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling on White Top Laurel Creek. For tent campers seeking more amenities, established campgrounds are available within driving distance, though the dispersed sites offer more seclusion and direct access to nature. Damascus itself serves as a supply point with a grocery store, gas stations, and restaurants.

Best Tent Sites Near Damascus, Virginia (51)

    1. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    6 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 265-5100

    "The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek."

    "Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night."

    2. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

    25 Reviews
    Todd, NC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 406-4226

    $25 - $136 / night

    "We had a neighbor nice enough to give us his site because he was leaving early and I would have stayed another night there. It was C3 backed into the woods on level ground. It made for a cozy morning."

    "It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."

    3. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    17 miles

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

    4. Elk Knob State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Zionville, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 297-7261

    $47 / night

    "Primitive camping and a perfect uphill 1.9 mile hike to the top of the world! If you're going in the winter I recommend hiking poles for hiking in the snow."

    "This park is just north of Boone, NC near the Tennessee state line. Great primitive sites at the bottom of the 5,520 ft mountain."

    5. Mountaineer Campground

    1 Review
    Lansing, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (336) 384-3938

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Lansing, NC is located in Ashe County and has some very good fly fishing nearby. The campground is run by the city of Lansing and is located 1 mile north of Lansing, just off highway 1353."

    7. Bellebrook Acres

    1 Review
    Bristol, TN
    22 miles
    +1 (423) 963-8060

    $50 - $70 / night

    8. New River Alleghany Access Primitive Paddle-in — New River State Park

    3 Reviews
    Mouth of Wilson, NC
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (336) 982-2587

    $17 / night

    "My family went to tent camp and enjoyed our stay. We discovered others with campers that had wonderful campsites. The bathroom facilities are new and very clean. We enjoyed hiking."

    "Sites with full hookups: 3, 7, [8, 12, 13, 14, 15 near bath house] 18, 19, 20 Bath house was nice and clean. Canoe up camp sites right along the River."

    9. Dusty Trails Outfitters

    2 Reviews
    Scottville, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (336) 977-8375

    $20 / night

    "We met Dustin as he was packing up near his boat launch area. If you drive down Garvey Bridge road (past the bridge), you will easily see the shuttle bus labeled Dusty Trails Outfitters."

    "Gorgeous location along the river."

    10. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

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Showing results 1-10 of 51 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Damascus, VA

914 Reviews of 51 Damascus Campgrounds



Guide to Damascus

Tent camping near Damascus, Virginia offers a blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Experience breathtaking foliage during the fall at Blue Bear Mountain Camp, where well-maintained trails offer excellent hiking opportunities.
  • The Scales Trailhead Basecamp is located right on the Appalachian Trail, providing access to some of the best hiking in the region.
  • Fishing and paddling are popular activities near Hidden Valley WMA, where campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Tips for tent camping near Damascus

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Damascus, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Damascus, VA is Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites with a 4.3-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Damascus, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 51 tent camping locations near Damascus, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.