Dispersed camping near Montebello, Virginia offers primitive sites within the George Washington National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 feet. The Blue Ridge Mountain terrain provides natural water sources through streams and small lakes, with temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Summer nights often drop to the 50s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Trail hiking from campsites: Several sites at Spy Rock connect directly to hiking trails. "The hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it," notes Emily T., who adds that despite some technical restrictions, "the fire pit and tent areas still seem in use."
Fishing opportunities: Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area features a stocked fishing pond. "The pond is stocked with trout, so small groups of fisherpeople came and went," reports Amy S., who appreciated finding "fire rings, firewood, and enough room to pull in, pitch a large tent, and hang hammocks."
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide exceptional stargazing conditions. According to Austin K. at Braley Pond, "I was the only one here on a Saturday night. Very quiet and it was great to have the place to myself. The stars were amazing!"
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers prefer sites with water access. At George Washington National Forest off 812, Sawyer B. found "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."
Secluded backcountry spots: True isolation draws many visitors. Sydney D. describes Flagpole Knob as ideal "if you really wanna be alone. Camped up there with just my dog and I doubt there was a single person for miles around. The sunset and sunrise views are insane."
Multiple site options: Forest roads often feature numerous camping spots. Kelly K. found that around George Washington National Forest off 812, "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site & we got one for 3 nights."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many primitive camping areas require appropriate vehicles. For Flagpole Knob, David B. advises "This site requires a 4x4 vehicle with clearance. The trail leading to and from camp can be a bit tricky for some."
Seasonal accessibility: Weather significantly affects access to remote sites. At Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping, Emil D. explains "The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active throughout the region. "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times," warns Emil D. about Switzer Lake.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits. At James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping, Zach K. notes "You simply need to purchase either a daily or annual access pass from the DWR website and then report which days you will be staying at the WMA—it's currently $23 for the annual pass."
Tips for camping with families
Protected camping areas: For families with children, look for sites away from drop-offs. Amy S. recommends Braley Pond: "I brought my boys out to camp this past weekend, and this place was perfect for our first dispersed campsite experience. The day use area is close enough to use the bathroom (just an open pit toilet, nothing fancy)."
Creek exploration: Small waterways provide entertainment for children. Sarah and James H. found at George Washington National Forest off 812, "The spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring."
History-focused day trips: When camping with children, nearby historical attractions offer educational breaks. Sam M. suggests that while camping at Spy Rock, "go visit Monticello (TJ's house), go to a winery, see UVA's campus and take a historical tour" in nearby Charlottesville.
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: RVers should check recent conditions before attempting forest roads. Mike C. warns about Switzer Lake, "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road."
Field camping for larger vehicles: Some areas provide open spaces suitable for RVs. At James River Wildlife Management Area, L H. reports, "For me being in the 29 foot classy, I opted to park it in a field/parking area at the entrance. I was the only one here all day."
Designated parking areas: When unsure about road conditions, look for established parking areas. According to Clayton S. at Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, "There is a large clearing off of Hidden Valley Rd just past Poor Farm Camp A Rd that can easily accommodate multiple vehicles with 3 or 4 fire pits."
