Best Dispersed Camping near Montvale, VA

Searching for the best camping near Montvale, VA? Montvale is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Montvale, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Montvale, Virginia (5)

    1. George Washington National Forest off 812

    12 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    25 miles
    Website

    "Unexpectedly found this site after planning on doing some primitive camping off the road. There's 2 sites that I saw on the road with pits."

    "You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet. Will definitely be back soon!"

    2. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    19 miles
    Website

    "I stayed at this AT shelter when I was doing a section hike with some friends. It's not bad as far as shelters on the AT go. There is not a water source too close to the shelter."

    3. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    2 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    "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. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream."

    "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."

    4. Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Buena Vista, VA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    "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"

    5. Spy Rock

    5 Reviews
    Montebello, VA
    45 miles
    Website

    "The views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents."

    "This place is amazing for primitive camping. Good trails to hike and overland"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Montvale, VA

23 Reviews of 5 Montvale Campgrounds


  • Rob U.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2018

    Spy Rock

    Beautiful Hike and Amazing Views

    The views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents. There are few amenities, but a few fire pits, etc. I've heard it can get pretty crowded, but it was not when I was there in October of 2015. Scramble up to the top for amazing sunsets and sunrises.

    A little research ahead of time can help, as well. You can hike from Crabtree Falls, which is longer, but alternatively, you can park at the Fish Hatchery in Montebello and make a much shorter hike to Spy Rock, a quick (though admittedly steep) 1.5 miles. There seems to be an occasional debate about whether the trail that connects the fish hatchery road to the Spy Rock trail is open, as it passes through private property, but last I check it WAS.

  • Mark M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2021

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Peaceful remote camping

    Unexpectedly found this site after planning on doing some primitive camping off the road. 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. Pretty nice scenery (you're smack in the middle of the forest) so if you want to get out and away from people this is a great site.

  • Lucy P.
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Cute but very basic

    As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source. However, it's a decent spot to stay the night especially if it's not crowded! There's a few other shelters and stealth sites in the area that are also great options though.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Anniversary Trip!

    We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet. Will definitely be back soon!

  • SJ W.
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    Very long road to get there

    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.

  • Jason L.
    Nov. 25, 2020

    Spy Rock

    Amazing!

    This place is amazing for primitive camping. Good trails to hike and overland

  • Ryan L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 24, 2022

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Secluded

    I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. You loose cell service a couple miles from the site. The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping. Fire ring and river are right there, no toilets. I didn’t see anyone else near this site when I stayed.

  • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2018

    Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    nice little AT shelter

    I stayed at this AT shelter when I was doing a section hike with some friends. It's not bad as far as shelters on the AT go. There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat. There is also a wooden shelter maintained by the AT, but those aren't my favorite to sleep in. Seemed nice as far as they go though.

    I was hiking a little section that includes Mcafee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the AT. This spot is really awesome. It can also just be done as a day hike, so I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a 8ish mile hike. 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. Lugging a crash pad all the way to the top isn't the most fun, but worth it if you want to get some cool bouldering in.

  • Katrina L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Labor day weekend

    August 31, 2024, Labor Day weekend camping trip. Spent a night here camping with my younger sister.  She could only do one night, as she lives up north and had to be back up by Monday to go back to work on Tuesday. We arrived around 10:30am, we got everything set up before we ventured out. Very nice spot we found, very quiet except for nature. Best sounds ever. We visited the Natural bridge, which was about 20 minutes or so from the camp site. It did some light rain from around 8p til sometime after midnight, but stayed comfy and dry.


Guide to Montvale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Montvale, Virginia, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out George Washington National Forest off 812

  • This area features multiple sites along a peaceful creek, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and nature sounds. Check it out at George Washington National Forest off 812.
  • Visitors have noted the tranquility of the location, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway, even with occasional passing cars.
  • The site allows for campfires and pets, enhancing the camping experience for those looking to unwind in nature.

Scenic hikes and camping at Spy Rock

  • The hike to Spy Rock is challenging but rewards campers with breathtaking views and a unique camping experience at the summit. More details can be found at Spy Rock.
  • Campers have enjoyed the primitive setup, with ample space for tents and fire pits, making it a great spot for stargazing and enjoying the outdoors.
  • The area is known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, making the effort to hike up worthwhile for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Montvale, Virginia

  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 offers a large open space with several flat areas for tents, perfect for groups or families.
  • Be prepared for a rocky path leading into some sites, but the reward is a peaceful environment with easy access to hiking trails and streams.
  • Remember to pack out what you pack in, as these sites do not have trash services, ensuring the beauty of the area is preserved for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Montvale, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Montvale, VA is George Washington National Forest off 812 with a 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Montvale, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Montvale, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.