Best Tent Camping near Lebanon, VA

The Washington and Jefferson National Forest surrounding Lebanon, Virginia offers numerous primitive tent camping opportunities along creeks and forested areas. Tent campers can find established sites at Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost, which provides five reservable tent sites with fire rings and firewood available for purchase. For those seeking more secluded backcountry tent camping, the dispersed sites throughout Washington and Jefferson National Forest provide free camping options with minimal amenities. Scales Trailhead Basecamp offers tent-only sites with basic toilet facilities but requires hikers to bring their own water and supplies.

Most tent campsites in the region feature natural dirt or gravel surfaces with varying degrees of levelness. Campers should bring their own water, as potable water is rarely available at primitive sites. The Cavitts Creek Park primitive loop offers designated tent camping areas with a bathhouse, though reviews indicate it can be challenging to access with steep terrain. Tent sites at Jefferson National Forest High Knob Campground are available from May 15 to September 15, providing a seasonal option for summer tent camping. Fire rings are common at most sites, but firewood restrictions may apply to prevent the spread of invasive species.

According to reviews, the Washington and Jefferson National Forest dispersed sites offer "large, very shaded" tent camping areas along creekside locations. One camper noted that their site "had a good fire ring and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease." At Chestnut Knob Shelter along the Appalachian Trail, tent campers can find "great views over Burkes Garden" with a clearing suitable for tent setup. Road noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly at Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, where campers report significant traffic sounds. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent at most backcountry tent sites, requiring proper preparation before venturing into these remote camping areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Lebanon, Virginia (26)

    1. Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost

    2 Reviews
    Coeburn, VA
    22 miles
    +1 (276) 614-5585

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. "

    "What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest."

    2. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    6 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 265-5100

    "The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek."

    "Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night."

    3. Bellebrook Acres

    1 Review
    Bristol, TN
    24 miles
    +1 (423) 963-8060

    $50 - $70 / night

    4. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

    27 Reviews
    Todd, NC
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 406-4226

    $25 - $136 / night

    "We had a neighbor nice enough to give us his site because he was leaving early and I would have stayed another night there. It was C3 backed into the woods on level ground. It made for a cozy morning."

    "It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."

    5. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    36 miles

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

    6. Cavitts Creek Park

    3 Reviews
    North Tazewell, VA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (276) 988-7250

    $11 - $79 / night

    "We camped in the "primitive loop" for a long holiday weekend. Tent sites were spaced a decent distance apart. Most were treed and had some shade during the day."

    "Beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous mountains, hiking, fishing and boating, amazing staff, very clean shower houses and laundry facility! Very family oriented and pet friendly!"

    7. Chestnut Knob Shelter, Appalachian Trail

    2 Reviews
    Ceres, VA
    39 miles

    "There is a shelter at the top; this location is located along the Appalachian Trail and has wodden bunks and single platforms for pads and sleeping bags."

    "Don’t make the same mistake I did and tent camp outside in a huge storm - just stay inside!"

    9. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

    10. Elk Knob State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Zionville, NC
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 297-7261

    $47 / night

    "Primitive camping and a perfect uphill 1.9 mile hike to the top of the world! If you're going in the winter I recommend hiking poles for hiking in the snow."

    "This park is just north of Boone, NC near the Tennessee state line. Great primitive sites at the bottom of the 5,520 ft mountain."

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Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Lebanon, VA

515 Reviews of 26 Lebanon Campgrounds



Guide to Lebanon

Tent camping near Lebanon, Virginia offers a blend of serene nature and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tent campers should check out local attractions

Amenities that enhance your camping experience

  • Enjoy the convenience of a porta-loo and bear bins at Hidden Valley WMA, making your stay more comfortable while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Take advantage of the firewood and picnic tables available at Bellebrook Acres, perfect for evening gatherings around the campfire.
  • Relax in a well-reviewed setting at Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park, where amenities like showers and electric hookups cater to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lebanon, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lebanon, VA is Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Lebanon, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Lebanon, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.