Best Dispersed Camping near Oriskany, VA

Oriskany, VA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Oriskany. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Oriskany and user-submitted reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Oriskany, Virginia (6)

    1. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    17 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."

    2. George Washington National Forest off 812

    12 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    33 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!"

    3. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    2 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    34 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. Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Warm Springs, KY
    39 miles
    Website

    "I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice."

    "No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."

    5. Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Buena Vista, VA
    39 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"

    6. Spy Rock

    5 Reviews
    Montebello, VA
    49 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 Oriskany, VA

28 Reviews of 6 Oriskany Campgrounds


  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

    Great "out of the way" spot

    Great camp site!! I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice. Quiet spot with a nice grassy level area. will definitely stay here again when I get back up this way.

  • 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.

  • Mikaela K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 24, 2023

    Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

    Nice spot, even for our conversion van!

    Wasn’t too hard to get there and park in our van. Peaceful for the most part (a few campers were there). No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came.

  • 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.

  • R C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 27, 2025

    Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

    Nice free camp spot(s) next to a river

    Really enjoyed this place. Maybe 5-10 min off of highway 220. There are maybe 5 ish spots to camp next to a river in this mountain valley. I took the one and only site just before the proper camp site (it was the best one IMO). Need to be self sufficient though, only convenience is a toilet house. No cell coverage. Highly recommend for primitive camping.

  • Jason L.
    Nov. 25, 2020

    Spy Rock

    Amazing!

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


Guide to Oriskany

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Oriskany, Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Scenic Views at Spy Rock for Dispersed Campers

  • The hike to Spy Rock is challenging but rewards you with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley, making it a must-visit for adventurous campers.
  • This spot features a flat area for setting up tents, along with fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek, as the trailhead can be tricky to find, but the stunning scenery at the top is worth the effort.

Tranquil Escapes at George Washington National Forest off 812

  • Nestled by a peaceful creek, this area offers a quiet retreat where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.
  • The dispersed sites here are spacious enough for various camping setups, making it ideal for both tents and smaller RVs.
  • With easy access to hiking trails, you can explore the surrounding forest and discover the beauty of the Virginia wilderness.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Oriskany, Virginia

  • When visiting Johns Spring Shelter, be aware that water sources are limited, so plan accordingly and bring enough for your stay.
  • For those looking for a more secluded experience, the Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 is tucked away from the main road, providing a serene environment for campers.
  • Always check for local regulations and guidelines, as some areas may have restrictions on campfires or require specific camping practices to protect the natural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Oriskany, VA is Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Oriskany, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.