Salem, Virginia's Appalachian foothills offer diverse primitive camping options at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with fall temperatures between 45-65°F, making it ideal for autumn camping trips. Forest roads and trails connect many secluded sites where campers can find solitude among oak, maple and pine forests.
What to do
Swimming access: Breeden Bottom Campground provides direct river access for water activities. One camper noted, "Sites are spacious and right along the river. Most sites have river access directly from the site. The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm."
Hiking trails: Shirleys' River Retreat serves as a convenient base for nearby mountain trails. Located along the riverbank, it offers "wonderful host and amazing campsite right in the riverbank," according to a recent review.
Mountain biking: Greenbrier River Trail provides 77 miles of rails-to-trails riding opportunities. A visitor observed that "Trail conditions got soft and muddy after the previous night's deluge through the more heavily wooded areas, once the trail was exposed to constant sun, it dried quickly."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many tent camping areas near Salem provide ample room between campsites. At Breeden Bottom Campground, "Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone." Another camper added, "Probably my favorite campsite in Virginia now."
Established fire rings: Most primitive sites include fire pits for evening campfires. The dispersed camping site off Forest Road 812 features "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other."
Stream access: Several tent sites are positioned near water sources. A visitor to Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 mentioned it has "several flat areas for tents" and "easy access to the stream." Another reviewer called it "the best boondocking we've done in VA. The sites were clean, along a gentle stream, and all had huge fire pits."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites require self-sufficiency. At Dragon's Tooth, a visitor noted, "This was a fine place to park overnight... There is no running water, but there are vault toilets stocked with toilet paper at the trailhead as well as bear proof trashcans."
Site access varies: Some locations require walking from parking areas. FR 812 has "a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Cell coverage gaps: Be prepared for limited connectivity. At Camp Success, visitors find "no cell service" but note the campground is a "beautiful spot on the New River in Giles County, VA located right outside downtown Narrows."
Weather considerations: The area experiences sudden weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. Some trails become temporarily impassable after heavy rain, with one camper noting "blow-down did slow us down a few times" after storms.
Tips for camping with families
Look for flat terrain: Choose sites with level ground for easier tent setup. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, a visitor found "several flat areas for tents" making it suitable for families with multiple tents.
Seek sites with nearby activities: Whitt Riverbend Park offers a "cozy little site not too far from the main highway" with "plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!"
Consider noise factors: Some sites experience periodic disturbances. At Breeden Bottom Campground, "The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there."
Pack extra water: Many primitive sites lack potable water sources. Even sites with pumps may have reliability issues, as one camper found at Greenbrier River Trail: "Hand pump well water was inoperable during our late June visit."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping areas near Salem have restrictions for larger vehicles. For smaller rigs, Willville Motorcycle Camp offers amenities uncommon at primitive sites, with "clean showers, big fire pit, free coffee in the morning."
Pack extension cords: Where electric is available, it may not reach all sites. A visitor to Willville Motorcycle Camp noted, "Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot (you can bring an extension cord if you need it for a CPAP or such)."
Scout access roads: Many forest roads leading to tent camping areas have challenging sections. One camper described FR 812 as having "a very rocky path" before reaching the main camping area.
