Camping opportunities near Mount Solon, Virginia range from roadside tent sites to higher elevation dispersed areas across the George Washington National Forest. The region sits within the Appalachian Valley and Ridge Province at elevations between 1,100-4,400 feet, creating variable weather conditions throughout the year. Many campsites offer creek access with several locations requiring high-clearance vehicles to navigate unpaved forest roads.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area provides stocked fishing opportunities just west of Mount Solon. "The pond is stocked with trout in season, check DGIF site for dates," notes Paul P., who appreciates the off-grid experience. Another visitor mentioned, "I got to hike a nearby trail that while challenging was rewarding. I highly recommend this first come first serve campground."
Mountain biking trails: North River Campground attracts cyclists with nearby technical routes. "Lots of bmx bikers, tucked far back in the woods so decent for privacy except that sites are basically in an open field," reports Lucy P. The campground sits within minutes of multiple trail systems connecting to the broader Shenandoah Valley network.
Waterfall hikes: Hone Quarry serves as a trailhead for waterfall access routes. "We went to the first site after the lake and it was fairly flat and open. And we were right by the trail that goes to the waterfall. The creek was a few minute walk away as well," explains Breanna M. The trail network offers moderate difficulty hikes ranging from 2-5 miles.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping offers secluded spots away from crowds. "There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek," reports Adam G., who has camped there multiple times. These dispersed sites require self-sufficiency as they lack facilities.
Seasonal program activities: Loft Mountain Campground provides ranger-led programs during summer months. "We drove to the visitor center at the Big Meadow. They had very cool programs and really good food. I enjoyed a blackberry shake, which is kinda famous for the area, and it was delicious," shares Katrin M. The Appalachian Trail passes directly through the campground, offering day hiking options.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report dawn and dusk wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. "We were certainly surprised to have a deer family join us during dinner. The mountain remained fogged in for most of our stay, but hikes on the AT and Doyles Falls were stunning," writes Cindy M. about her Loft Mountain experience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Flagpole Knob requires appropriate vehicles. "This site requires a 4x4 vehicle with clearance. The trail leading to and from camp can be a bit tricky for some," advises David B. The unpaved roads become particularly challenging after rain.
Limited mobile connectivity: Cell service disappears quickly at higher elevations and in valley bottoms. At North River Campground, "It is just remote enough. There's no service for Verizon, but if you have an emergency, you can drive a mile or two and send out a call," explains one camper.
Seasonal closures affect availability: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Loft Mountain Campground only welcomes campers "mid May to late October," according to official listings, while others like Switzer Lake become difficult to access during winter months when roads may not be maintained.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Shenandoah Valley Campground offers multiple water features for hot days. "They have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields. You can even have a tent right on the river. Across from a beautiful waterfall," explains Joy A. The river provides natural wading areas with graduated depths appropriate for different ages.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the resident wildlife at some campgrounds. "My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt," reports Ryan Z. about Shenandoah Valley Campground. The semi-tame rabbit population creates memorable experiences for young campers.
Pack extra clothing layers: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common in the mountains. Mike C. reports from Switzer Lake: "Average Daily Temp: 61, Average Evening Temp: 30," highlighting the need for proper preparation even during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site size constraints: Consider your RV dimensions when booking. "The one problem is the camper section is very tight, whereas the tent sites look more roomy," notes Ryan Z. about Shenandoah Valley Campground. Sites with full hookups tend to be closer together than more primitive options.
Limited number of full-hookup sites: Walnut Hills Campground offers various utility options but requires advance planning. "Not all sites have full hookup. It was separated from the site on one side and close to the site on the back side," reports Laure D. Weekends typically fill well in advance during peak season.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide dump services without sewer hookups at individual sites. "They pick up trash each morning and have propane refill, if needed," notes DK S. at Walnut Hills. Smaller campgrounds like North River maintain sanitary dump stations but lack other RV amenities.
