Dispersed camping near Haysi, Virginia offers primitive outdoor experiences in the mountainous terrain of southwestern Virginia. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-2,900 feet with significant seasonal temperature variations. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer brings highs in the 80s with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hidden Valley WMA provides access to a calm lake where visitors can enjoy fishing. "Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation," notes one camper at Hidden Valley WMA.
Creek exploration: Little Tumbling Creek offers opportunities to explore waterways and small cascades. "Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way," writes a visitor to Little Tumbling Creek.
Wildlife observation: The management areas contain diverse habitats supporting local wildlife. Quiet mornings and evenings provide the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Many campers report seeing deer, various bird species, and occasional black bears from a safe distance.
What campers like
Natural solitude: Campers value the remote feeling and limited crowds. "We had the place to ourselves which was really great," writes one visitor about their experience at Hidden Valley WMA.
Water features: The streams and lake enhance the camping experience. A camper describes Little Tumbling Creek as a place to "Camp next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery."
Ample camping space: The sites offer sufficient room for comfortable setup. At Little Tumbling Creek, visitors appreciate the "Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges for certain vehicles. One camper warns about Hidden Valley WMA: "Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it."
Permit requirements: Virginia Wildlife Management Areas require proper authorization. For Hidden Valley WMA, "you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account."
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for communication challenges. At Little Tumbling Creek, there is "Absolutely no verizon service at the site."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some locations have minimal supervision. At Hidden Valley WMA, one camper noted "There also are a few peculiar (methy) characters that come in and out of the parking lot at night."
Camping near water: Families should follow water proximity rules. Although Hidden Valley WMA is "close to the water's edge," remember that "no camping allowed lakeside."
Basic facilities: Prepare children for primitive conditions. The Hidden Valley WMA has "quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo" but lacks modern amenities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large rigs face access challenges on steep forest roads. Hidden Valley's "harsh grade for 4 miles" creates difficulties for larger vehicles.
Alternative spots: Multiple pull-off areas provide options. Hidden Valley WMA has "4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites" allowing for flexibility based on vehicle size.
Site selection: Level spots are limited but available. Little Tumbling Creek has "Several spots by creek for van or tent camping" that can accommodate smaller recreational vehicles on the "Flat field area."
