Dispersed camping options near Salem, Virginia, center around the Blue Ridge Mountains where elevations range from 1,300 to 4,000 feet. Weather conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and cooling to 55-65°F at night. Most primitive camping areas in the region provide minimal amenities like fire rings and vault toilets but require campers to pack in water and pack out trash.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: The Dragon's Tooth area offers direct access to the Appalachian Trail with challenging terrain. "The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well. Pretty little creek runs by the gravel lot, and there are also some campsites right off the trailhead that are level with rock firepits if you prefer to camp," reports Angela D.
Trail exploration: Peaks of Otter Campground provides access to numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. One camper notes, "Definitely check out sharp top and flat top hikes. Both were beautiful, but slightly difficult so just be prepared. Also bring bug spray because the flies were terrible at the top."
Water recreation: Water activities abound at several campgrounds within driving distance. A visitor to Smith Mountain Lake State Park mentions, "Lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing offers spacious sites. "Awesome large spaces. Camped with 8 people/2 tents and had room for more if needed. Secluded enough but a lot to do," writes Chaz M.
Mountainside accommodations: Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT provides basic amenities with access to filtered water sources. Alex R. shares, "You get a lean-to and tent sites. Near water (collect water with a filter only). I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go. Lots of space for many people."
Group camping facilities: Primitive campgrounds with basic facilities suit larger groups. "Stayed here for two nights with 13 vehicles and 16 people to visit Potts Mountain Jeep trail. Nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the campsite," reports a visitor to Caldwell Fields Group Campground.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many campgrounds offer only basic amenities. At Johns Spring Shelter, Lucy P. notes, "As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source. However, it's a decent spot to stay the night especially if it's not crowded!"
Site access limitations: Some camping areas have restricted access or require advance planning. At Dragon's Tooth, a recent visitor observed, "This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area. Car camping is the only option at this time. It appears that the tent camping area is no longer available and is fenced off for environmental protection reasons."
Water availability: Many primitive sites lack reliable water sources. One camper at Johns Spring Shelter states, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground offers water activities suitable for children. A reviewer shares, "The views of the lake are stunning! There was fishing, boating and swimming as well! Gets crowded depending on the time of year but worth it for sure!"
Kid-friendly waterways: At Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing, Katherine M. reports, "The creek was the big hit for our family of small boys. Grab some lawn chairs and a cooler and let them play and explore for hours."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies provide excellent night viewing. One camper at Smith Mountain Lake simply stated, "Boy are there some amazing stars out here."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Explore Park, a visitor noted, "Not sitting in a field!!! Pretty and quiet. Lovely."
Alternative camping options: Some areas provide unique accommodations beyond traditional camping. At Tina's Dream, Zu Y. reports, "Camp in her house driveway, it is my first time, but quiet and safe neighborhood. We arrived very late evening, after nine o'clock. She help us hoop up the electricity and water."
Pet-friendly facilities: Most campgrounds in the Salem area accommodate pets with standard leash requirements. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing maintains pet-friendly sites with miles of trails for walking dogs, while Dragon's Tooth camping area allows pets with direct access to hiking trails.
