Best Tent Camping near Paris, VA
State parks and national forests near Paris, Virginia offer several tent-only camping options with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Sky Meadows State Park Campground in nearby Delaplane provides walk-in tent sites about one mile from the parking area. Mountain Lake Campground in Paris itself offers tent camping year-round. For those seeking more seclusion, Veach Gap in George Washington National Forest features backcountry tent sites with ridgeline views, while Little Fort Campground provides dispersed camping with basic amenities.
Most tent campsites in the region require some preparation for primitive conditions. Sky Meadows features pea gravel tent pads, bear boxes, and non-potable water pumps that require boiling before consumption. Campers should pack essential supplies, as many sites lack running water. Little Fort Campground uses a self-registration system where campers flip a washer on a board to claim their site. Vault toilets are common at established sites, but shower facilities are generally unavailable. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at most locations, with firewood available for purchase at Sky Meadows through an honor system.
In early spring and fall, tent camping areas around Paris offer peaceful experiences with fewer crowds. According to reviews, Sky Meadows sites are "spaced far apart" and situated in a wooded area "well away from other park attractions," creating a quiet atmosphere even when the campground is full. One camper noted that the hills throughout the campground help each site "feel like a little private oasis." At Veach Gap, a visitor recommended packing all necessary water as "there is no water after the first mile" of the hike in, but the effort rewards campers with "breathtaking" views from the ridgeline. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, owls, and various birds frequently observed by tent campers in the area.
