Dispersed camping near Greenway, Virginia offers primitive, low-cost options within George Washington National Forest and surrounding wildlife management areas. Located in central Virginia at elevations ranging from 600 to 3,000 feet, these sites experience mild spring and fall temperatures with summer highs reaching the upper 80s. Most sites lack facilities and require campers to pack out all trash and bring necessary supplies.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: Access multiple hiking trails from Forest Road 812 with connections to the Appalachian Trail. "Plenty of spots and the road is mostly paved. Easily accessible with great hiking and water nearby," notes Jeremy P. about George Washington National Forest off 812.
Stream fishing: Cast for native trout in the creek systems throughout the region. At Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite, campers can fish directly from their site. "Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd," reports Derek D.
Wildlife observation: The area provides habitat for deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. "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," explains Zach K. about James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Secluded creek-side sites: Many campers appreciate the natural water features. "Showed up around 5pm and were the only ones there... all are beautiful and most are right next to the creek. There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," writes Sawyer B. about camping near Greenway.
Peace and solitude: The remote locations offer privacy that's difficult to find at developed campgrounds. Ryan L. describes his experience at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country... The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping. Fire ring and river are right there, no toilets. I didn't see anyone else near this site when I stayed."
Established fire rings: Despite being dispersed sites, many locations have well-built fire pits. "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream," describes David B.
What you should know
Access roads can be challenging: Some sites require high-clearance vehicles. "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out," notes Jon N. about dispersed camping in the national forest.
Limited mobile service: Most sites have minimal or no cellular coverage. "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," reports one camper at James River WMA.
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. SJ W. reports about Spy Rock: "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one."
Pack out all waste: No trash facilities exist at these sites. At one location, Sarah and James H. complained: "My only complaint - that whoever used it last decided to walk a few yards down the trail and use the bathroom right in the middle of the path, leaving their mess and a pile of used wipes on the ground. Gross."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose spots with natural boundaries for safety. "We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet," shares Kenlei B. about their anniversary trip.
Consider hiking distances: Some camping areas require significant walks to reach. Emily T. cautions about one site: "I camped here 3 times, the hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it."
Water filtration required: Bring water filters to safely use stream water. "It was clean, creek for water if you have filter. Nice fire ring and wood. Did not see another person," reports keith H. after staying at James River Wildlife Management Area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites can't accommodate large rigs. L H. shares: "I was unsure if I was in the right area. 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. Everything else is fair game, for me being in the 29 foot classy. I opted to park it in a field/parking area at the entrance."
Supply planning: No services exist nearby, so bring everything you need. Rachael P. enthusiastically reports: "Best boondocking we've done in VA. The sites were clean, along a gentle stream, and all had huge fire pits. Highly recommend."
Road conditions: Assess recent weather impact on access roads. SJ W. notes: "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."
