The mountainous terrain surrounding Marion, Virginia creates opportunities for rustic camping in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest region, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 5,000 feet. Primitive campsites in this area typically sit alongside mountain creeks with limited or no cell service. Some dispersed camping locations, particularly along Hurricane Road and forest service routes, don't require permits and allow stays up to 14 days.
What to do
Paddling access points: Multiple dispersed sites in Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites provide excellent water access, with creekside options for both swimming and kayaking. One camper noted, "We got lucky and parked right next to a swimming hole, had a gorgeous swim and enjoyed our time."
Stargazing at higher elevations: The mountain peaks near Whitetop offer exceptional night sky viewing opportunities, away from light pollution. A camper shared: "Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze."
Appalachian Trail access: Several primitive camping areas serve as gateways to AT hiking sections, with Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offering direct trail connections. As one visitor mentioned: "We were very lucky to obtain a perfect spot on the top of Mount Roger's during our section hike of the AT. It provided amazing views for both sun up and sun down."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Wild ponies can be spotted at higher elevations near Scales Trailhead Basecamp, adding a unique element to the camping experience. According to one review: "Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!"
Creek sounds: Many campsites sit alongside mountain streams, providing natural white noise. A camper at Little Tumbling Creek described: "Camp next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery."
Above-cloud experiences: When conditions are right, higher elevation campsites rise above the cloud line, creating surreal views. As one Whitetop camper described: "As we're getting ready to head out for the day, all of a sudden the sun came out and we were ABOVE THE CLOUDS. It was absolutely stunning."
What you should know
Road quality varies significantly: Many dispersed sites require difficult driving to access. For example, Scales Trailhead requires serious off-road capability with one reviewer noting: "The road in is...rocky. High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous."
Site proximity to roads: Some primitive camping locations sit close to forest roads which can affect privacy. A camper at Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites observed: "Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek's sound is pleasant. No network at all."
Permit requirements for some areas: While most dispersed camping is free, Hidden Valley WMA requires a $4 Virginia Wildlife Access pass with camping authorization. A camper explained: "Camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account)."
Limited or no amenities: Prepare to be self-sufficient as most areas have minimal facilities. A camper advised: "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Consider established sites for first trips: First-time dispersed campers with children may appreciate Walnut Flats, which offers more amenities than typical backcountry sites. A reviewer noted: "It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didn't smell."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting wild ponies and other animals. One camper at Mount Rogers shared: "Variety of types of campsites. Amazing sights and wild ponies! The AT provides some great hiking."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. A Whitetop camper warned: "Only camp here if there's clear sky's. Even then, the wind is killer and probably never lets up."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most dispersed camping areas near Marion aren't suitable for larger vehicles. Even sites marked as RV-friendly often have access limitations, as one Hidden Valley WMA camper noted: "The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to... Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it."
Level site scarcity: Finding truly level spots for larger vehicles presents challenges in this mountainous terrain. At Walnut Flats, one RVer appreciated the "level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole" which made setup easier.
Extended stay possibilities: For those planning longer stays, some areas allow 14-day camping. One RVer at Walnut Flats shared: "I stayed just shy of 2 weeks and 1 other came in a few days after me and stayed the whole time I was there and both of us worked on our rv without any disturbances."
