Dispersed camping near Glen Lyn, Virginia offers free and primitive camping experiences along creek banks and forest roads. The area sits at the junction of the New and East Rivers with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,200 feet. Most sites lack facilities beyond fire rings and require campers to pack in drinking water and pack out waste.
What to do
Fishing access: Army Camp in New River Gorge National Park provides riverside camping with mountain views and fishing opportunities. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," notes reviewer Jean C. at Army Camp.
Creek relaxation: Sites along creeks offer natural water features for cooling off during warm months. One visitor to Mount Rogers National Recreation Area shared, "I stayed here two nights because it was so beautiful! The creek is loud and the trees offered privacy. It is a pull-thru so it would be convenient for trailers, too."
Trail hiking: Primitive campsites serve as bases for exploring nearby trail systems. Sam M. from Johns Spring Shelter mentions, "I was hiking a little section that includes Mcafee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the AT. This spot is really awesome. It can also just be done as a day hike, so I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a 8ish mile hike."
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Walnut Flats offers peaceful sites away from crowds. Dennis R. notes, "5 sites, stayed in the double site. Quiet place with plenty of firewood on the ground. Occasional people driving through but a great experience!"
Water features: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at many sites. Alexandra T. at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area described it as "Free spot, right next to a gorgeous creek. It was totally empty in March - we didn't see a single soul."
Cost-free camping: Free camping is consistently mentioned as a major benefit. Rachel S. from Army Camp states, "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May."
What you should know
Water planning: Most primitive sites near Glen Lyn lack water sources. A reviewer for Army Camp warned, "No drinking water, so bring your own. No hookups. The river is nearby, but none of the sites are on the river."
Navigation challenges: Access roads to primitive camping areas can be difficult. Corda B. shares about Army Camp, "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in. Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store."
Arrival timing: Sites fill quickly during peak seasons. Caroline F. advises, "FCFS. Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles. Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Spots are shaded. Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite."
Confusing listings: Be aware that some online information may be inaccurate. Jordan B. warns about Johns Spring Shelter, "This listing is for the main office for the forest. There are no camping sites near here. The sites are all located in the area listed as Washington and Jefferson camps sites."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom planning: Most primitive sites have limited or no toilet facilities. At Walnut Flats, Alice S. notes, "The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didn't smell. There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes."
Space considerations: Look for sites with adequate space for family setups. Rhys R. says of Walnut Flats, "Very nice spot, right by the river with plenty of spaces to hammock down by there. We were lucky and got one of the last spots. Fire rings with grill, and bench at each site. The ground is great for tents, no rocks."
Connectivity awareness: Cell service is minimal at most sites. One camper mentioned, "You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage," which is important for families needing to stay connected.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites near Glen Lyn accommodate smaller rigs only. Kristi D. shares about Army Camp, "It is a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by. It's very doable."
Leveling preparation: Site surfaces vary in quality. SomadNomad M. from Walnut Flats describes, "nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole, restrooms but I didn't use them well water pump for drinking water."
Self-contained camping: Plan for boondocking with limited amenities. Billy C. notes about Army Camp, "Area for people to swim in the river or fish. One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet. Great area."
Traveler
