Dispersed camping near Hollins, Virginia primarily occurs in the surrounding George Washington National Forest at elevations between 1,200-3,000 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows frequently reaching below freezing. Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-October, creating heightened competition for primitive campsites during this period when weekend occupancy can reach 90%.
What to do
Hike to McAfee Knob: Access this popular Appalachian Trail landmark from Johns Spring Shelter. "It can also just be done as a day hike, so I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a 8ish mile hike. Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top," notes camper Sam M. from Johns Spring Shelter.
Explore creek fishing spots: Several dispersed sites offer direct creek access. "It was clean, creek for water if you have filter. Nice fire ring and wood. Did not see another person," reports Keith H. about his May stay at George Washington National Forest off 812.
Summit hiking from roadside campsites: Many dispersed sites connect to trail networks. "There is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit and links to AT!" explains Kelly K. who camped at one of several creekside sites when their first choice was occupied.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Secluded camping options exist despite popularity. "I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. You loose cell service a couple miles from the site. The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping," explains Ryan L.
Multiple site options: Forest Road 812 area provides various camping configurations. "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream," shares David B. about Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812.
Stone fire features: Many sites contain established stone fire rings with extra amenities. "There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," notes Sawyer B., who found multiple beautiful sites available at 5pm during their visit.
What you should know
Water sourcing challenges: Reliable water sources vary significantly between sites. "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North," notes Lucy P. about Johns Spring Shelter, describing it as "Cute but very basic."
Road conditions require planning: Some primitive camping near Hollins involves significant travel on unpaved roads. "This was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it," explains SJ W. about accessing Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite, adding it was "very buggy" during August.
Limited connectivity: Cell service disappears quickly when entering camping areas. "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service," shares Jon N., who found a spacious group site with a large fire circle.
Tips for camping with families
Weekend timing strategy: Arrival timing impacts site availability substantially. "Definitely get there early to get a prime spot. We didn't arrive until late afternoon but we were able to snag one down toward the end of the road," advises Sarah and James H., who found a flat spot backed up to a creek.
Multiple-site availability: Groups needing multiple sites should explore various roads. "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site and we got one for 3 nights," shares Kelly K.
Natural amenities for children: Creekside locations provide natural play areas. "It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet," notes Kenlei B., who enjoyed an anniversary camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Van camping accessibility: Standard vans and small RVs can access many primitive sites. "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one," reports SJ W., who found most sites occupied during peak fall colors.
Group camping clearance: Larger group sites accommodate multiple vehicles. "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out. There is a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other," explains Jon N.
Road surface variability: Different access roads present varying challenges. "Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd," notes Derek D., who rated the primitive camping experience 4 out of 5 stars despite road challenges.
