Dispersed camping opportunities exist in George Washington National Forest near Forest, Virginia, along Forest Service Road 812. This free camping area features multiple sites situated alongside a creek at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands during summer months. Sites remain accessible April through November, though visitors should expect limited cell service throughout the area.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points to the Appalachian Trail can be found near George Washington National Forest off 812, where campers enjoy day hikes along this iconic footpath. "There's a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!" notes Kelly K. about the dispersed camping area.
Fishing in nearby waters: Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp offers fishing opportunities in a scenic mountain lake setting. "Some of us spent all day swimming, catching salamanders and tadpoles while some of us fished. Another perfect summertime campground," shares Maggie A.
Visit Natural Bridge State Park: Located near several campgrounds in the region, Natural Bridge is a must-see geological formation. "Natural Bridge is a must see on your bucket list," remarks Linda B., who stayed at Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: George Washington National Forest off 812 offers free dispersed camping with direct access to moving water. "Nice camping spot in George Washington NF. The spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring," reports Sarah and James H.
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and privacy at certain campgrounds. At Otter Creek Campground, one camper mentioned, "The creek ran right through our spacious and secluded site. It was quiet and serene- just what we were looking for before heading back to city life."
Fall foliage viewing: The Blue Ridge Parkway provides spectacular autumn color displays, with campgrounds strategically located for optimal viewing. "We stayed in 2020, first time at this campground and will definitely stay again. Very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, plenty of places to hike," notes Jennifer K. about her experience at a parkway campground.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: George Washington National Forest free camping areas have no toilets, trash service, or drinking water. "It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. You loose cell service a couple miles from the site," says Ryan L. who stayed at the Forest Service Road 812 camping area.
Weather considerations: Storms can impact camping conditions throughout the region. At Peaks Of Otter Campground, one visitor noted, "We had the best of the lot - very private but only one side of the picnic table was accessible (bc of the slope). Worked for our setup with rooftop tent but would've been difficult for someone w a camper or tent."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area operate on limited seasonal schedules. "North Creek Campground, VA: George Washington and Jefferson NF 4/21/23 - one night. $7.5 w Senior pass," reports Roger W., highlighting the campground's affordable rates during its operating season.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water features for children. "There were a ton of things for the kids to do here which was great. I really enjoyed the water park myself as it was in the high 90's/low 100's when we were there," shares Kevin F.
Tent platforms prevent flooding: Some campgrounds provide raised platforms for tents, protecting campers during wet weather. At Lynchburg KOA, "The tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms. It stormed our first night, and the raised gravel tent platforms prevented us from flooding."
Nature exploration opportunities: Creeks and small wildlife provide entertainment for young campers. "My wife, my 2 yr. old, and I enjoyed our weekend here. The campground was clean and staff was very friendly. There is ample hiking and the lake is something different to do," explains Chaz M. about Cave Mountain Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides guidance for RV positioning. "If we had camper with slide, we would not have been able to use our slide in this site," cautions Martha S., highlighting the importance of selecting appropriately sized sites.
Water pressure variations: Campgrounds may have inconsistent water pressure depending on site location. One camper at Lynchburg KOA noted, "My water pressure was good but talking to other campers, the farther away you get from the front of the park the worse the water pressure gets."
Road conditions in campgrounds: Access roads at some locations present challenges for larger vehicles. At Thousand Trails Lynchburg, a visitor observed "Almost every site has a bag over there electricity. Limited 50 amps. Lots of road wash outs," indicating maintenance issues that could affect RV access.
