Top Free Dispersed Camping near Keezletown, VA

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Keezletown? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Keezletown just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Keezletown, VA (13)

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

      2. 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
      • No image available

        3. 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 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

        4. South Fork Shenandoah River

        2 Reviews
        12 Photos
        78 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Dispersed
        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

        5. Little Fort Campground

        3 Reviews
        8 Photos
        112 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Picnic Table
        • Toilets
        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

        6. Spy Rock

        5 Reviews
        21 Photos
        166 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Dispersed
        • No image available
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
          • No image available
            Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
            Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
            Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
            Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
          Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

          Recent Dispersed Reviews In Keezletown

          71 Reviews of 13 Keezletown Campgrounds


          • 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.

          • 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 .

          • 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.

          • 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.

          • 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

          • 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.

          • Mikaela K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Camping & Day Use Area
            Mar. 24, 2023

            Braley 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.
            Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
            Aug. 31, 2022

            Switzer 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.
            Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
            Aug. 20, 2022

            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.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
            Aug. 4, 2022

            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.

          • Melanie S.
            Camper-submitted photo from Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping
            Apr. 27, 2022

            Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

            Easy camping

            We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek. We were closer to the road than we wanted to be but because the past few days had been beautiful spring weather, the area was packed. The only others we saw from our campsite were people fishing downstream from our camp and they were respectful of our space. Will be back to this area to explore and stay at other campsites!

          • C
            Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake
            Mar. 26, 2022

            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.
            Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
            Feb. 2, 2022

            Veach 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.

          • Mic F.
            Camper-submitted photo from Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping
            Jan. 16, 2022

            Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

            Peaceful primitive camping

            We pulled into the first spot we found by the creek mainly due to having a big rig and not being sure of other spots. After driving up the road when we left there's about four or five spots total. The gravel road can get pretty narrow but there wasn't really anyone else there so we didn't have any issues. The view by the creek was so pretty. There's a little store called Ruby's about an hours walk up the road for some small supplies and whatnot. As far as traffic on the road we got about two to three cars drive by a day but that wasn't a problem for us at all.

          • adrian F.
            Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
            Oct. 22, 2021

            Flagpole 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.
            Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
            Oct. 22, 2021

            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.
            Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
            Oct. 7, 2021

            Switzer 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.

          • Brittany B.
            Camper-submitted photo from Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping
            Sep. 18, 2021

            Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

            My favorite campground!

            This was my first stop on my cross country trip from Virginia to California and out of all the amazing places I’ve seen, this is by far my favorite spot!



          Guide to Keezletown

          Camping near Keezletown, 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 the campgrounds. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground" at Big Meadows Campground.
          • Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies perfect for stargazing. A camper shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," highlighting the beauty of the night sky at Big Meadows Campground.
          • Fishing and Swimming: Visit Sherando Lake Campground for swimming and fishing. One visitor noted, "The lake is beautiful and refreshing," making it a great spot for water activities.

          What campers like:

          • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "Good clean campsites and showers," which is a big plus for many.
          • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites that provide privacy. One camper at Mathews Arm Campground said, "The outer loop gives you more of a 'backyard' and space."
          • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "The staff were awesome," which adds to the overall experience.

          What you should know:

          • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lewis Mountain Campground, have fewer amenities. A reviewer noted, "No electricity or hookups at Lewis Mountain," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
          • Crowded Sites: Campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, "The sites were all small and very close together," which might not be ideal for everyone.
          • Bear Awareness: Be cautious about food storage due to wildlife. One camper at Big Meadows Campground warned, "There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out."

          Tips for camping with families:

          • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park said, "They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf," making it a hit with kids.
          • Choose the Right Site: Opt for sites that are away from play areas if you want peace. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park noted, "If you are looking for a peaceful experience, do not book near any of the play areas."
          • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One family at Misty Mountain Camp Resort enjoyed the "great shower and laundry facilities," which can help with meal prep.

          Tips from RVers:

          • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mathews Arm Campground advised, "Be sure to do your due diligence before choosing your site."
          • Generator Hours: Be aware of generator hours at campgrounds. A camper at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00," so plan accordingly.
          • Limited Cell Service: Expect spotty cell service in some areas. A visitor at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "No Verizon or ATT cell service I could find," so download maps ahead of time.

          Camping near Keezletown, Virginia, offers a variety of experiences, from family fun to peaceful retreats. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

          Frequently Asked Questions

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

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Keezletown, VA is Crisman Hollow Road Camp with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

            TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Keezletown, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.