Top Free Dispersed Camping near Hinton, VA

Looking for dispersed camping near Hinton? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Virginia camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hinton, VA (23)

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      1. Switzer Lake

      1 Review
      13 Saves

      This colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound.

      Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Picnic Table
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry

      2. Dolly Sods Backcountry

      11 Reviews
      52 Photos
      286 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Equestrian
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

        4. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

        1 Review
        2 Photos
        6 Saves

        A free back country camping permit is required: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/bc-permit.htm

        Shenandoah National Park has 196,000+ acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping is, by its very nature, a primitive experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. Before you head out on your trip, however, be sure that you understand all of the information below so that you'll be prepared to safely discover a brand new world beyond the pavement!

        Each year thousands of people spend a night or more in the Shenandoah’s backcountry. While visitors seek the backcountry for isolation, the cumulative actions of everyone in these areas can have dire effects on the resources we seek to enjoy. We can mitigate these effects by following Leave No Trace principles, as well as observing park backcountry regulations. The following regulations exist to keep Shenandoah's wilderness wild and untrammeled for you and for future generations of hikers and campers.

        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground

        6. Little Fort Campground

        3 Reviews
        8 Photos
        112 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Picnic Table
        • Toilets
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
        Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

        7. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

        8 Reviews
        44 Photos
        198 Saves
        • Pets
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Dispersed
        • No image available
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock
          Camper-submitted photo from Spy Rock

          9. Spy Rock

          5 Reviews
          21 Photos
          166 Saves
          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Tents
          • Group
          • Dispersed
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River

          10. South Fork Shenandoah River

          2 Reviews
          12 Photos
          78 Saves
          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Tents
          • Standard (Tent/RV)
          • Dispersed
        Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Hinton

        108 Reviews of 23 Hinton Campgrounds


        • Harley G.
          Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
          Sep. 16, 2024

          Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

          First night

          This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time.

        • hThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Sep. 9, 2024

          South Fork Shenandoah River

          Great site, bad timing?

          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. The real issue was the land directly across the river that had 20+ people playing loud music at almost all hours. Docked one star for that but everything else was great. Bathrooms had no TP so bring your own, and please remember to pack out your trash! Plenty of firewood from downed trees, sites are dirt which makes staking down easy, but I can imagine it would be muddy if it rains.

          EDIT: 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.

        • W
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Sep. 5, 2024

          Flagpole Knob

          Enjoyed the drive and stay

          I drove to Switzer Lake first and from there stayed on the trail all the way to Flag Pole. The drive took a few hours but was a ton of fun. There are a few good spots up there and it gets fairly busy.

        • Leonard M.
          Camper-submitted photo from Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
          Jun. 30, 2024

          Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

          Dont try to show up on a Friday afternoon

          We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday.  Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer....

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
          Jun. 26, 2024

          Flagpole Knob

          They Said....

          They said, no way, I chuckled. They Said , you need a high clearance vehicle, I cleared my throat. They said, you need 4 wheel drive, I SAID "ILL SEND YOU PICTURES!!!" what an Amazing view, don't use me as an example , you definitely should not drive your 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 159 wb campervan up that road like I did. so now that that's clear how about some pics?.it's absolutely pouring down rain and hail. how about some security cam footage?

        • Sumner C.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
          Apr. 21, 2024

          South Fork Shenandoah River

          Great view on the river

          The road to get to the campsite was well maintained and easy to get to. Campsites themselves were a tad overgrown but it was the beginning of the season. Seemed to be about a dozen spots to camp. Each site had its own fire pit. Quiet and peaceful.

        • kylie B.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Apr. 18, 2024

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Terrible road to get in

          I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .

        • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area
          Mar. 19, 2024

          Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

          Great "out of the way" spot

          Great camp site!! I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice. Quiet spot with a nice grassy level area. will definitely stay here again when I get back up this way.

        • Emil D.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Dec. 31, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Nice area the camp spots can use some work

          I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.

          The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.

          There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.

          The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.

          Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.

        • TJ W.
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Nov. 5, 2023

          Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

          Amazing Campsite

          Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

        • N
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
          Oct. 13, 2023

          Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

          Hard to find.

          This campsite is another one we found on a list provided by Shenandoah’s park rangers and was listed as moderate hike and easy camping. I think, just like some other on the list, the easy camping might be a slight exaggeration. It was not particularly easy to find and we couldn’t find a super great spot. Good views on the hike.

        • L
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Sep. 18, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Beautiful area!

          I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!

        • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Compton Gap backcountry camping
          Sep. 17, 2023

          Compton Gap backcountry camping

          Buggy and damp

          Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.

        • Todd C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Gaudineer Knob camp sites
          Aug. 21, 2023

          Gaudineer Knob camp sites

          Moss covered pine forest of silence

          Just wow! First off, it's not a campsite, it's day use only, but I got there too late to go anywhere else. The forest floor is only moss. Like miles of moss and other than the trail that was it. No other trees either. Just Spruce?I think it was spruce but I'm not a treeologist. That combination created the world's most quiet environment ever. You wouldn't hear a marching band if they were feet behind you. It was super erie to camp in, but also the most peaceful and amazing spot I've been to in years. I loved it! I did the old growth loop down the road too. The whole place was magical.

        • Matt M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Jul. 27, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Beautiful, but...

          My site was great. It was an established site with a fire ring. It had a large clearing with a pretty flat spot for my tent. I accessed the site on my motorcycle. You wouldn't get a car/truck to the site. The trail is only about 30 yards. I am not sure I was in a camping allowed spot though. Some reviews say you have to go farther down the road. So there is that. I need to get more specific guidelines. Regardless, it was a great night if camping. I was pretty discouraged by the amount of trash. I grabbed as much as I could fit, but I didn't have extra bags or extra room, being the bike.

        • Karli P.
          Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
          Jul. 22, 2023

          Little River Dispersed Campsites

          Secluded but Accessible

          My husband and I stayed her for one night with our dog! We arrived around 6pm on a Friday evening. A couple of the spots were taken but we found a lovely spot in the group campsite - there was no one else there! The group campsite had 5 spots spread around a smallish gravel loop.

          Just a heads up, the road to access these campsites is tucked in the back of a residential area. We missed it the first time by and had to turn around!

          If you are just passing through or staying a while, this is a great dispersed camping area!

        • John W.
          Camper-submitted photo from Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
          Jun. 28, 2023

          Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

          Great place to camp solo or w/family and friends

          Camped solo first week of June then with neighbor and his friends a week later. Had great time both visits! Highly recommend getting firewood on right not far from turning off main road! Watch for deer on back roads anytime of day or night!

        • D
          Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
          Jun. 21, 2023

          Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

          Great For No Hassle One-Night Camping

          I only stopped there one night on my way through to Delaware, but it was just what I needed. Great views too, it was quite windy though on the lake. Might be something to keep in mind. Most vehicles should be fine coming in off of 33. From what I hear from another camper, it is rough coming the other way with anything other than something that can scale rocks

        • W
          Camper-submitted photo from Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
          May. 24, 2023

          Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

          Loved it !

          Arrived 8 May for a week. Nice and cool. 4 to 8 other campers. No one next to me. There were a couple of small groups, like two rigs together. Nice and quiet. A few friendly fishermen each day, sharing local knowledge.

        • M
          Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
          May. 23, 2023

          Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

          Great Spot

          My partner and I like to camp here every year, this year being our third. We’ve found a few nice little spots to set up camp. Great trails nearby with wonderful views.

        • Luke D.
          Camper-submitted photo from Little River Dispersed Campsites
          Apr. 18, 2023

          Little River Dispersed Campsites

          Amazing, but beware bears

          Lost cell service an hour before reaching the area. Utterly beautiful, pretty untouched wilderness. Very very quiet location. You can collect fallen material for fires, and we marched off into the woodlands for a little hike. Not even 2 minutes from our dispersed camp site we were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict! But, it was very very close to the site we had our tent! We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe. While the wilderness is beautiful and untouched, the previous campers left behind some sweet teas and cans, which probably is why the wildlife was so close. Be mindful to pick up your own litter and if you can take out the litter from the previous campers. Also a warning ⚠️ the road is narrow and you'll need to pull off to the side to let cars pass coming in, and the road is riddled with pot holes and is entirely gravel. Just beware and you'll have a great time!

        • joe W.
          Camper-submitted photo from Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
          Apr. 12, 2023

          Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

          Great private campsite with an established firepit

          No one bothered mom and I on Easter weekend. We pulled our 28 foot travel trailer in past I’d say ten other campsites that were taken. The last big turnaround featured four rv accessible campfires for us to pick.

        • Morgan H.
          Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Camping & Day Use Area
          Apr. 5, 2023

          Braley Pond Camping & Day Use Area

          Great Spot for a Night

          Sites had plenty of space with fire rings built out of rocks. Loved exploring the area and pond. Pond had a lot of trash along the shoreline and vault toilet was rather full. Otherwise, a great place for a night of camping.



        Guide to Hinton

        Camping near Hinton, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

        What to do:

        • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails in Shenandoah National Park. One camper mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground," highlighting the easy access to nature.
        • Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies for some fantastic stargazing. A visitor shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," which shows how magical the nights can be.
        • Cavern Tours: Check out the nearby Endless Caverns for a unique underground experience. A reviewer noted, "The cavern tour was pretty knowledgeable and great with the kids," making it a family-friendly activity.

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. One review stated, "Campsite facilities seemed pretty clean and well-maintained," which is a big plus for those who value hygiene.
        • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like Misty Mountain Camp Resort. A family shared, "Our kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad which was open all day," indicating that there's space for fun activities.
        • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA said, "Nice people at the camp shop and camp sites were well kept," which adds to the overall positive experience.

        What you should know:

        • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in some areas. One camper noted, "Verizon was nonexistent," so it might be a good idea to inform family and friends before heading out.
        • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground advised, "Arrive early enough in the day to snag a better site," to ensure you get a good spot.
        • No Showers at Some Sites: Some campgrounds, like Loft Mountain Campground, do not have shower facilities. A camper mentioned, "Showers were pretty expensive at $5 for 10 minutes," so plan accordingly.

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray said, "They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf," which keeps the little ones entertained.
        • Safety First: Always keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. One camper warned, "Make sure you don't leave any food out," as bears can be a concern in the area.
        • Plan for Crowds: Weekends can get busy, so consider going during the week. A visitor at Shenandoah Valley Campground mentioned, "Weekends were packed, but much quieter during the week."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to choose a site that fits your RV. A camper at Big Meadows Campground advised, "Be sure to do your due diligence before choosing your site," to avoid any surprises.
        • Generator Hours: Be aware of generator hours at campgrounds. One camper noted, "Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00," which is important for planning your power needs.
        • Road Conditions: Some roads can be tricky for larger vehicles. A reviewer at Wolf Gap mentioned, "The road to get here was a little bit treacherous for a vehicle so big," so drive carefully.

        Camping near Hinton, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hinton, VA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hinton, VA is Switzer Lake with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

        • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hinton, VA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 23 dispersed camping locations near Hinton, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.