Top Free Dispersed Camping near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

Camping near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. At Breaks Interstate Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "The trails are well marked at trail head & with colored blazes. Info boards are at most overlooks so you know what you are looking at."
• Fishing: The reservoir is great for fishing. A visitor at Carr Creek State Park Campground noted, "We kayaked on the lake and while it was enjoyable there was a lot of trash in the lake," highlighting the need to keep the area clean while enjoying the water.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A review from Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground said, "The owner allowed us to choose our site, and after having driven through a full day of traffic, we chose the easiest to pull into."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Natural Tunnel State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are super clean and there is even laundry."
• Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground said, "Owner are very nice and helpful. Facilities were pristine."
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A review for Flag Rock Recreation Area Campground stated, "Great campground with biking/hiking trails and mountain scenic overlook."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Jenny Wiley State Park Campground noted, "Roads in campground are rough in places. Electrical boxes are in rough shape at some sites."
• Bear Activity: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. A visitor at Breaks Interstate Park Campground mentioned, "Apparently there is a lot of bear activity, although we did not encounter one."
• Seasonal Hours: Some amenities may have limited hours. A review for Carr Creek State Park Campground indicated, "Overall a good small campground just needs a little more attention in the bath houses at the campground and beach area."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A camper at Littcarr Campground said, "Very clean facilities, friendly hosts, and a wonderful location on the lake."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A review from Riverside Campground mentioned, "Staff could not have been more friendly and accommodating."
• Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground noted, "There’s a great walking trail that runs right by."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Natural Tunnel State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are more spacious."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check ahead. A review for Chief Logan State Park Campground said, "There was creek nearby and walking paths all over."
• Be Prepared for Steep Roads: Some campgrounds have steep access roads. A visitor at Kingdom Come State Park Campground warned, "The road in from Cumberland is STEEP!"

Camping near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia, has something for everyone. Just be prepared and enjoy the great outdoors!