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Best Dispersed Camping near Paris, VA

36 Reviews

Shenandoah National Park offers several backcountry camping options near Paris, Virginia, with dispersed sites requiring permits throughout the park. Most primitive sites are accessible via hiking trails rather than direct vehicle access, with popular areas including Overall Run, Jeremy Run, and Piney Branch camps. Backcountry campers must follow strict regulations including proper food storage due to active black bears in the region.

The surrounding George Washington National Forest provides additional primitive camping opportunities, including Little Fort Campground with simple amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Veach Gap offers spectacular ridgeline camping but requires a challenging 4-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. A camper noted, "Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking." Dispersed sites in this region generally observe the standard 14-day camping limit.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Paris, Virginia (17)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Paris, VA

37 Photos of 17 Paris Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Paris, VA

36 Reviews of 17 Paris Campgrounds

  • Jon N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2022

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    My favorite Hike in the area

    I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.

  • John R.
    Aug. 20, 2022

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Love this National Forest!

    There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!

    You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!

    One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!

    Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!

  • Jacqueline F.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Amazing drive and lots of wildlife

    We only stayed one night, but wish we could have stayed more! The campground offers so many different trails and breathtaking scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got there, we saw several deer. I’d almost say they were friendly :) No electric hookups, but the weather was beautiful! We hiked part of the Appalachian Trail which gets pretty steep. I didn’t use the bathrooms or the coin operated showers as we have them in our RV, but they had the services available. It is a drive through the mountains to get to the campsite, but very well worth it for us!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Beautiful spot!

    Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours. Unfortunately there was a decent bit of trash we cleaned up. The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Squirrel Hollow Road Camping

    Convenient off the road boondocking

    Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by cat or with a small teardrop trailer.

    True boondocking, haul it in, pack it out. Evidence of a cat hole in the site we picked

    Sites were quiet at night. Some traffic related to logging activity. Looks like a popular weekend camp spot for locals.

    We camped during the week and had nobody else camping on weekdays.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed

    It's quiet

    Quite a few miles down Squirrel Gap Rd. There is another sunnier sight a little before this one. But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep. Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood.

  • TJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2023

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    Amazing Campsite

    Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

Guide to Paris

Dispersed camping near Paris, Virginia, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Trails for Hiking Enthusiasts

  • The Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites provide access to numerous trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail, where hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • For a more challenging experience, the hike to the Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site features a 1,200-foot elevation gain, rewarding adventurers with stunning vistas of the Shenandoah River.
  • The Gravel Springs Hut is a great stop along the Appalachian Trail, offering a unique shelter experience with nearby hiking opportunities.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities

  • At the South Fork Shenandoah River, visitors often spot deer and other wildlife, making it a prime location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
  • The Little Fort Campground is surrounded by lush woods, providing a peaceful setting where you might encounter various birds and small mammals.
  • The Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area is ideal for those looking to teach kids about fishing while enjoying the local wildlife.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Paris, Virginia

  • Always pack out your trash, especially at sites like the Compton Gap Backcountry camping, where there are no trash facilities available.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at places like the Zepp Mountain Dispersed, which lacks drinking water and toilets, so bring all necessary supplies.
  • If you're camping at the Stultz Gap on Johnstown Road, remember that no permits are required, making it a convenient option for spontaneous trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Paris, VA is Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 15 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Paris, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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