Dispersed camping near Glade Spring, Virginia provides visitors with opportunities to camp without dedicated facilities on public lands at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000+ feet. The Jefferson and Washington National Forests surrounding this southwestern Virginia town experience significant temperature variations even in summer months, with nighttime lows frequently dropping into the 50s. Rainfall averages 3-4 inches monthly during peak camping season, making waterproof gear essential for comfortable stays.
What to do
Fishing in mountain creeks: Little Tumbling Creek offers accessible fishing spots with native trout populations. A recent visitor noted, "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek."
Mountain biking: The Virginia Creeper Trail provides 34 miles of cycling opportunities accessible from Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. A reviewer explained their experience: "You can hop on the trail at various access points and ride uphill and coast down."
Stargazing: The higher elevation camping areas offer exceptional night sky visibility. At Whitetop, one camper shared their experience: "Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Multiple dispersed sites feature creek access that provides both water and ambient sound. A camper at Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites shared: "Loved this spot - we got lucky and parked right next to a swimming hole, had a gorgeous swim and enjoyed our time."
Wildlife viewing: The area is home to wild ponies and abundant native wildlife. At Scales Trailhead Basecamp, visitors appreciate "the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!"
Off-grid seclusion: Many sites offer genuine disconnection from digital life. One camper described their experience: "No service, off-grid, really lovely." Another mentioned: "Absolutely no verizon service at the site."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful driving. At Whitetop, a camper warned: "The road to this site is WILD, but doable! I'll leave photos of the worst spots to help you decide whether or not you should drive up to the top."
Variable weather: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. One reviewer at Whitetop cautioned: "The reason I gave it two stars is because if there's any clouds in the sky, you're literally just in a cloud of condensation. Everything is wet."
Permit requirements: Hidden Valley WMA requires specific permits. A visitor explained: "Camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account)."
Tips for camping with families
Creekside options: Sites near water sources provide natural entertainment for children. One camper reported: "Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night."
Safety considerations: Some sites have better visibility and easier access than others. A visitor noted about certain sites: "Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek's sound is pleasant."
Pack essentials: Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities. A camper at Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area advised: "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many roads to dispersed sites have challenging terrain. One visitor to Scales Trailhead Basecamp warned: "The road in is....rocky. High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous."
Location planning: Sites with easier access tend to fill up first. A camper noted: "When we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car."
Water access considerations: Some sites provide better water access for larger vehicles. A visitor to Hidden Valley WMA mentioned: "Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation."
