Best Dispersed Camping near New Castle, VA
Dispersed camping near New Castle, Virginia concentrates in several national forest areas including George Washington National Forest off Forest Road 812. These free primitive sites are mostly drive-in accessible with some walk-in options along creek beds and forest roads. Johns Spring Shelter on the Appalachian Trail provides hike-in camping with basic facilities including a wooden shelter structure and tent sites. Walnut Flats and Reservoir Road offer additional options for primitive camping on public lands.
Access to most dispersed sites requires navigation on unpaved forest roads that may present challenges during wet weather or for low-clearance vehicles. The Forest Road 812 area features multiple pull-off sites along a creek with established fire rings but no formal facilities beyond occasional pit toilets at select locations. Several campers note losing cell service when approaching these remote areas. Most sites lack drinking water, requiring campers to either filter from streams or bring their own supply. "There's 2 sites that I saw on the road with pits. There's access to the App Trail on the road so you might see some hikers but it was real quiet otherwise," noted one visitor to the FR 812 area.
The primitive nature of these sites appeals to those seeking solitude in wooded settings. Many campsites include natural features like creekside locations with stone fire rings. A camper at George Washington National Forest described it as "nice and peaceful" with "nice trials" nearby. Johns Spring Shelter provides a convenient overnight option for Appalachian Trail section hikers exploring McAfee Knob, described as "one of the most photographed spots on the AT." Visitors should note seasonal fluctuations in site availability, as one camper reported that "80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm." Walnut Flats offers more established amenities including picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets while maintaining a primitive camping experience.
