Dispersed camping near New Castle, Virginia offers primitive outdoor experiences within Jefferson and George Washington National Forests. Most sites are accessible via unpaved forest roads at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, with camping concentrated along creek beds and forested areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, while spring and fall bring significant temperature fluctuations requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The area surrounding Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area features multiple trail systems for day hiking. "I'm all about trails so this place was greaaat!" notes one visitor. Many trails connect to larger networks, providing options for various skill levels.
Stream fishing: Several dispersed sites along Forest Road 812 offer direct creek access for fishing. "We got one for 3 nights. They are all lovely & creekside with fire pits & there is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!" reports one camper at George Washington National Forest.
Bouldering: Some areas near Johns Spring Shelter provide opportunities for climbing enthusiasts. According to one visitor, "Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 locations offer good separation from other campers. "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road," writes one camper about a particular site's layout.
Creek-side camping: Many campers appreciate the natural water features. At George Washington National Forest off 812, one visitor reports: "Showed up around 5pm and were the only ones there. 6-8 different sites, all are beautiful and most are right next to the creek. There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose."
Well-established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature sturdy fire rings. "Best boondocking we've done in VA. The sites were clean, along a gentle stream, and all had huge fire pits. Highly recommend," notes a camper at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812.
What you should know
Limited water sources: Water availability varies significantly by location. At Johns Spring Shelter, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North," according to one Appalachian Trail hiker.
Cell service limitations: Most dispersed areas have unreliable or non-existent connectivity. One camper at Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite notes this isolation factor: "Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close which when I drive down a really long dirt road that is questionable for my van, i want it to be private and this was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it."
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out," reports one visitor to Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812.
Tips for camping with families
Established options: Walnut Flats offers more amenities than typical dispersed sites. "This is a wonderful spot. It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didnt smell," notes one camper, making it suitable for families needing more facilities.
Bring entertainment: Most sites lack structured activities for children. Plan for creek exploration, nature scavenger hunts, or portable games. One visitor to George Washington National Forest mentioned: "We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing."
Restroom considerations: Toilet facilities are limited or nonexistent. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, "Maybe 5-10 min off of highway 220. There are maybe 5 ish spots to camp next to a river in this mountain valley...Need to be self sufficient though, only convenience is a toilet house."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed areas have limited space for larger vehicles. One RVer at Sherwood Lake WV observed: "Around a dozen sites with fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only. These are located along the road to Lake Sherwood in Neola WV off Rt. 92."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. "Nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole," notes a camper at Walnut Flats, one of the few areas with more level parking.
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have few areas to turn larger vehicles. A visitor to Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area shared: "Great camp site!! I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice. Quiet spot with a nice grassy level area."
