Top Free Dispersed Camping near Hood, VA
Looking for the best dispersed camping near Hood? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Virginia camping adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Hood, VA (12)
1. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
1 Review•2 Photos•6 SavesA 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
3. South Fork Shenandoah River
2 Reviews•12 Photos•78 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Little Fort Campground
3 Reviews•8 Photos•112 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
6. Gravel Springs Hut
1 Review•17 Photos•30 SavesGravel Springs Hut is 0.2 mi south of Gravel Springs Gap and another 0.2 mi down
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
7. Compton Gap backcountry camping
1 Review•2 Photos•9 Saves- Pets
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Switzer Lake
1 Review•13 SavesThis 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
Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Hood
52 Reviews of 12 Hood Campgrounds
- h
heather
Traveler
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.
- WWaseem H.
Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Quiet peaceful place
I didn’t find and good spots, but it was quiet and peaceful. I drove from there to flag pole. The trail was really fun and moderately difficult.
- WWaseem H.Guide
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.
- NNeil M.
Scout
Shawl Gap
Hammock Camping
Great Hammock camping off the trail near shawls gap
- SSomadNomad M.Guide
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.GuideSouth 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.GuideSwitzer 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 .
Emil D.TravelerSwitzer 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.Traveler
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.
- NNora S.
Ranger
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.
- LLauren M.Scout
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.
Legend
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.
Matt M.ScoutSwitzer 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.
- DDavid S.Traveler
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
- Morgan H.Guide
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.
Mikaela K.TravelerBraley Pond Camping & Day Use Area
Good spot to camp with a tent or a van
We took our conversion van and had no problems parking and pulling through to turn around when we left. Plenty of places to park or set up a tent along the road or at the end near the bathrooms and information center. A few nice hikes, and plenty of privacy. We did have to clean up after the last campers in our spot though, but other than that it was well taken care of
Matthew F.GuideSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Plenty of spots not near the lake
We couldn’t find the spots closer to the lake so we ended up alongside a creek further down the road from the switzer. The road is pretty rocky, but nothing crazy.. Take it slow and most vehicles can get by.
Our site was great and there were plenty to choose from. Where boots and run in to check out the various sites. I’m sure there would be even cooler ones
John R.Guide
Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
Love this National Forest!
There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!
You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!
One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!
Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!
- Sydney D.Scout
Flagpole Knob
Awesome
If you really wanna be alone this is the spot. Camped up there with just my dog and I doubt there was a single person for miles around. The sunset and sunrise views are insane. Made it up in a stock Subaru Outback. Not difficult but definitely need at least a little bit of clearance.
- CConnor W.Scout
Switzer Lake
Need AWD and some ground clearance
Good little spot, used to go here a lot in college, the drive in can be done by a sedan but I’d definitely recommend AWD/4WD. Great views of the lake surround by pines, free access, drive through the stream to get to a few popular spots. Like most places, please leave it better than you found it, trash has been an issue
Jon N.GuideVeach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
My favorite Hike in the area
I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.
adrian F.GuideFlagpole Knob
Perfect overlanding spot
We had some bad weather but still loved our trip. If you know it’s going to be windy don’t camp at the peak. There’s plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees. Very spaced out. Everyone you run into is nice and welcoming. Recommend vehicles with some ground clearance depending on which route you take up. Unbeatable views from the top.
Also there is raccoons. Tie up your trash and keep your shoes in your tent or vehicle. A few people lost shoes overnight while we were there and found them few hundred yards away.
- adrian F.Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Fantastic primitive get away
Great spot to get away. Super peaceful and relaxing. Make sure to secure food trash. Pack in what you pack out and more if possible. We found lots of trash on the trails and at campsites. There’s nothing there so plan ahead for water and bathroom use.
Adam G.TravelerSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Switzer is my go to spot coming from Harrisonburg!!
I’ve camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek. Switzer is a nice quiet place and perfect for big or small groups that never disappoints. It’s also empty on weeknights. Beautiful sunrises from the dam.
Jacqueline F.GuideShenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
Amazing drive and lots of wildlife
We only stayed one night, but wish we could have stayed more! The campground offers so many different trails and breathtaking scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got there, we saw several deer. I’d almost say they were friendly :) No electric hookups, but the weather was beautiful! We hiked part of the Appalachian Trail which gets pretty steep. I didn’t use the bathrooms or the coin operated showers as we have them in our RV, but they had the services available. It is a drive through the mountains to get to the campsite, but very well worth it for us!
Alexandra T.GuideShenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
It’s a no from me.
This place was $30 just to enter and it was super duper packed. We turned around and found a great boondocking site nearby.
Austin K.ScoutBraley Pond Camping & Day Use Area
Quiet and a great getaway
I was the only one here on a Saturday night. Very quiet and it was great to have the place to myself. I took advantage of the trails in the morning. It was pretty muddy even though it was in the low 30s so wear applicable footwear. The stars were amazing! There was plenty of wood scattered about to use as firewood.
Only stayed one night due to complications with my cooking stove, but I'll be back.
Guide to Hood
Camping near Hood, 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. Many campers rave about the easy access to trails right from their campsites. One reviewer mentioned, “Hiking trails leave right from the campground” at Big Meadows Campground.
- Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. Campers at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground appreciate the “breathtaking views” and the fishing opportunities available.
- Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for great stargazing. One camper shared, “We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing” at Big Meadows Campground.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Loft Mountain Campground noted, “Good clean campsites and showers.”
- Proximity to Attractions: Many enjoy being close to attractions like Luray Caverns and Skyline Drive. One visitor at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA said, “Nice park, lots are a little close together but the tree make it private.”
- Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray offer tons of activities for kids, including “mini golf, movie theatre, and playgrounds.”
What you should know:
- Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped. A camper at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, “The sites were all small and very close together.”
- Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. One visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground noted, “Verizon was nonexistent.”
- First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A reviewer at Mathews Arm Campground said, “We could not pick any site that wasn’t reserved.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that offer more space and privacy. A family at Loft Mountain Campground enjoyed the “walk-out sites” but noted they weren’t as secluded as hoped.
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out the activities available at the campground. One family at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray loved the “waterslides and splash pad.”
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A camper at Misty Mountain Camp Resort mentioned the “snack bar had so much to offer.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Big Meadows Campground advised, “Be sure to do your due diligence before choosing your site.”
- Be Mindful of Generator Hours: Some campgrounds have specific generator hours. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground noted, “Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00.”
- Bring Extra Water: Not all sites have water hookups. A camper at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, “There is no electricity or hookups at Matthews Arm.”
Camping near Hood, 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 Hood, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hood, VA is Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hood, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Hood, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.