In the George Washington National Forest surrounding Fulks Run, Virginia, tent camping sites sit at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating varied microclimates for campers. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day and drop to the 50s at night, while spring and fall can see overnight temperatures dipping into the 30s. Seasonal road closures affect accessibility to some remote sites between November and April, particularly after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at multiple spots: The South Fork Shenandoah River area offers excellent fishing opportunities with several access points. South Fork Shenandoah River has a boat launch in the middle of the camping area, making it convenient for anglers. As one visitor noted, "The site was wonderful! Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick. There is a launch in the middle, so there is a bit of come and go."
Mushroom farm tours: For a unique experience, visit Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm where you can learn about mushroom cultivation while camping. A camper shared, "The camp host Orv has a very unique campsite setup not too far from the house/mushroom farm area. We got a nice tour of the mushrooms currently growing at the farm."
Swimming in natural water: Several camping areas offer swimming opportunities in rivers and lakes. At Emerald Pond Primitive Campground, you can enjoy a refreshing swim after hiking. As one reviewer mentioned, "We hike this bird knob trail all the time and usually end it by swimming across emerald pond. It's the perfect temperature (in July and august when we've done it)."
What campers like
Easy access with privacy: Many campers appreciate the balance of accessibility and seclusion. At Little Fort Campground, you'll find well-maintained sites that are easy to reach but still feel remote. One camper noted, "Nice flat camp site with picnic table and fire pit. Comes with tent pad but surface is too hard to use pegs. No requirements, just show up and claim your spot on the board."
Free camping options: The best tent camping near Fulks Run, Virginia includes several free sites. Little Fort Campground is particularly popular for its no-cost camping. A visitor shared, "Great established free campground! We got the last spot around 7pm. Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform."
Creekside settings: Many campers value sites next to flowing water. At Crisman Hollow Road Camp, you can find spots right on the water. A camper mentioned, "It a quiet area with many spots on right on the water. There was one really nice hiking trail by the bridge."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to many campsites can be challenging, especially after rain. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping requires careful driving. One camper advised, "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you."
Limited cell service: Most camping areas near Fulks Run have no cell reception. At Little Fort Campground, a camper reported, "On this app it says T-Mobile access, I'm a T-Mobile customer, no reception at all but drive 5 minutes back down the mountain and you're good to go."
Varied site quality: Even within the same camping area, site quality can differ dramatically. At Eagle Rock Campground, one camper noted, "It is what it is, a West Virginia backwoods campground. $10 will get ya a nights stay. Like previously said drop your money in a slot and enjoy the river. Nothing special or pretty just a cool little spot to lay your head."
Tips for camping with families
Wild food opportunities: Kids enjoy foraging activities at certain campsites. At Emerald Pond, a visitor shared, "There's wild blackberries everywhere. Got our bellies full. I don't want other people to find out how great this swimming hole is and ruin it."
Educational experiences: Some campgrounds offer learning opportunities for children. Rock Tavern River Kamp provides a mix of comfort and nature education. A camper noted, "We could not have asked for a nicer location! Our tent was about 20 feet from the river and the campground had everything we could have asked for (including spotless bathroom and shower facilities!)"
Safety considerations: Keep children away from steep terrain and fast-moving water. At Wolf Gap Recreation Area, a visitor observed, "Most sites have a paved parking platform and then a second tier for the camp site. All sites are quite large and include picnic tables, fire rings and large tent platforms."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds near Fulks Run have limitations for larger RVs. At Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm, a camper warned, "If you are tent camping or have a camper van the area is fine. Large RV will have a difficult time setting up in the camp area."
Level parking challenges: Finding level spots for RVs can be difficult. At Eagle Rock Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Sites are grassy, not clearly delineated, and line the river bank. Find a spot and set up. The hill ascending to the road has a number of RVs of varying age and conditions."
Seasonal access: RV camping is significantly more limited during wet seasons. At South Fork Shenandoah River, a camper observed, "I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable. Just keep this in mind when you go out."
