The George Washington National Forest provides numerous free camping opportunities near Paris, Virginia, with primitive sites scattered throughout its 1.8 million acres of woodland. Elevations in the area range from 500 to 4,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside locations to mountain ridgelines. Temperatures vary significantly between spring and fall seasons, with summer highs typically reaching the mid-80s while spring and fall nights can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Gravel Springs Hut in Shenandoah National Park serves as a convenient access point to the Appalachian Trail for day hikers or overnight backpackers. According to one reviewer, "The hut is 3 sides and open on the 4th, the open side faces the fire pit. There is a picnic table, privy, bear locker, and bear pole to hang additional items at the site."
River activities: The South Fork Shenandoah River offers excellent fishing, swimming and boating opportunities. A camper shared, "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."
Ridgeline exploration: For those seeking elevation and views, the trails around Wolf Gap Recreation Area provide rewarding experiences. One visitor noted, "There are several trails that intersect with the campsite and day hikers are a common site."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: At Wolf Gap Recreation Area, campers appreciate the privacy between sites. A reviewer mentioned, "Most sites have a paved parking platform and then a second tier for the camp site. All sites are quite large and include picnic tables, fire rings and large tent platforms. The campsite itself is beautifully wooded. Each campsite is mostly secluded from the rest of the park."
Wildlife viewing: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers opportunities to observe local fauna. One camper noted, "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."
Free camping options: Little Fort Campground provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. A visitor shared, "Great established free campground! We got the last spot around 7pm. Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform. We used one of the sign in slips but many of the other campers did not. Bathrooms and bear proof trash was provided."
What you should know
Water availability: Most backcountry sites lack reliable water sources, especially at higher elevations. At Veach Gap, a camper advised: "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."
Site registration systems: Different campgrounds use different registration methods. At Little Fort Campground, "You select a campsite by flipping a washer on a hook on the board from green to red. Flip it back when you leave."
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for limited connectivity. One Little Fort camper reported, "Oh on this app it says T-Mobile access, I'm a T-Mobile customer, no reception at all but drive 5 minutes back down the mountain and you're good to go."
Weather impacts: Sites near rivers can flood after heavy rains. A camper at South Fork Shenandoah River noted, "I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable."
Tips for camping with families
Simple fishing spots: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers accessible fishing for beginners. A visitor mentioned, "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."
Established sites with amenities: Little Fort Campground provides families with reliable facilities. A camper noted, "Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform... Bathrooms and bear proof trash was provided. Nice trails/creek behind site."
Park entrance fees: Some families may want to avoid Shenandoah National Park's entry costs. One visitor reported, "This place was $30 just to enter and it was super duper packed. We turned around and found a great boondocking site nearby."
Bear awareness: Families should practice proper food storage in all camping areas near Paris. A camper at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites noted, "There are so many trails to hike throughout the park and with a backcountry permit, you can find countless campsites. I stayed in the area of overall run falls. Make sure to hang your food. There are plenty of black bears in the area."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Squirrel Hollow Road Camping offers accessible free camping for small rigs. A visitor shared, "Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer."
Site leveling challenges: Even at established sites, parking areas may require leveling. At Wolf Gap Recreation Area, a camper observed, "Many of the car parking pads are not level. But the tent pads appear to be."
Seasonal timing: Weekday camping offers more solitude for RVers. A Squirrel Hollow Road visitor shared, "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."
