Dispersed camping areas near Earlysville, Virginia provide primitive overnight options in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Elevation in these camping areas ranges from 700 to 3,400 feet, offering varied terrain from riverside sites to mountain summits. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer nights remain mild even when daytime temperatures reach the 90s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The South Fork Shenandoah River offers drive-in riverside camping with good fishing access. One camper mentioned, "The site at the end of the road is beautiful. We stayed right at the end of the road, since we have a 30 foot RV, but there are sites you can walk to all the way down the river."
Hiking trails: Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping provides access to multiple trails. A visitor noted, "I've camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek."
Rock scrambling: Spy Rock requires a moderate hike with a rock scramble at the summit. According to a camper, "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."
What campers like
Established sites: Little Fort Campground offers more structured free camping near Earlysville. A reviewer explained, "Great established free campground! We got the last spot around 7pm. Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform. We used one of the sign in slips but many of the other campers did not. Bathrooms and bear proof trash was provided."
Solitude: Flagpole Knob provides remote camping options for those seeking isolation. One camper shared, "If you really wanna be alone this is the spot. Camped up there with just my dog and I doubt there was a single person for miles around. The sunset and sunrise views are insane."
Riverside camping: Braley Pond offers creek-side camping in a natural setting. A visitor reported, "We spent two nights camping here and it was awesome. Nice size clearing, plenty of flat space, big stone fire ring (we used our little solo stove) and a great stream that runs right by the site. Plus you're only a quarter mile from the pond which was really nice."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Unlike Shenandoah National Park, James River Wildlife Management Area requires purchase of a daily or annual access pass. A camper confirmed, "I never saw another person camping, but I did get out of my rig and ask a couple of people that were using brush hogs to mow with and they said Yep come on down here and just park wherever you want to as long as it's not within 300 feet of the boat put in."
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require driving on rough roads. At Switzer Lake, one reviewer cautioned, "The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles."
Wildlife concerns: Bears are active in these areas. A Switzer Lake camper advised, "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times."
Tips for camping with families
Established amenities: Braley Pond Day Use Area works well for families new to dispersed camping. A visitor shared, "I brought my boys out to camp this past weekend, and this place was perfect for our first dispersed campsite experience. The day use area is close enough to use the bathroom (just an open pit toilet, nothing fancy). The pond is stocked with trout, so small groups of fisherpeople came and went."
Flat camping spots: For families with multiple tents, look for larger clearings. At Spy Rock, one camper described, "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."
Creek exploration: Children enjoy wading in the shallow streams. A Braley Pond visitor mentioned, "Though you can't swim in the lake, we did wade the stream, which was cold and clear and beautiful. We'll be back!"
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most dispersed sites near Earlysville restrict RV access. At Crisman Hollow Road Camp, a visitor noted, "It a quiet area with many spots on right on the water. There was one really nice hiking trail by the bridge."
High-clearance vehicles: South Fork Shenandoah River accommodates some smaller RVs but requires caution. A camper advised, "The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow."
Site selection: For larger rigs, choose sites carefully. At South Fork Shenandoah River, one visitor noted, "Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours."
