Best Dispersed Camping near Pulaski, VA

The southwestern Virginia landscape surrounding Pulaski offers diverse camping experiences within the Appalachian Mountain region. Walnut Flats provides free dispersed camping with five established sites featuring fire rings, picnic tables, and basic pit toilets. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, located about an hour south, offers numerous primitive camping opportunities along creeks and forest roads. The Appalachian Trail corridor passes near Pulaski, providing access to shelters like Johns Spring, which serves hikers with basic amenities. These public lands support both vehicle-accessible sites and backcountry camping options, with most areas permitting both tent and RV camping.

Road conditions vary significantly across camping areas, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles. According to one camper at Scales Trailhead Basecamp, "The road in is rocky. High clearance 4WD needed." Many free sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly in national forest areas. Water availability differs between locations, with creekside sites offering natural sources that require filtration. Cell service remains limited in most camping areas, with one Walnut Flats visitor noting, "There is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage." Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable temperatures.

Creekside camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the region. One Mount Rogers camper shared, "The sound of the creek seemed to drown out all road noise." Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience, particularly in the Mount Rogers area where wild ponies roam freely. Proximity to recreational trails represents a significant draw, with the Virginia Creeper Trail and Appalachian Trail accessible from several camping areas. Night skies provide exceptional stargazing opportunities, with one visitor describing it as "one of the most memorable moments from our trip. I've never seen so many stars!" Most primitive sites maintain established fire rings but lack developed amenities, requiring campers to pack in essential supplies and water filtration equipment.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pulaski, Virginia (5)

    1. Walnut Flats

    4 Reviews
    Staffordsville, VA
    12 miles

    "Quiet place with plenty of firewood on the ground. Occasional.peiole driving through but a great experience!"

    "There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage."

    2. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Sugar Grove, VA
    40 miles
    Website

    "Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, there are multiple free national forest camping spots along the creek, just off Hwy 58. The sound of the creek seemed to drowned out all road noise."

    "It is a little close to the main road, as others have mentioned, but it was still removed enough for me to feel remote. The creek is loud and the trees offered privacy."

    3. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    48 miles

    "Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.

    The campground itself is great! "

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

    4. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    44 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."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pulaski, VA

20 Reviews of 5 Pulaski Campgrounds



Guide to Pulaski

Dispersed camping near Pulaski, Virginia, offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of scenic spots, you can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while taking advantage of the freedom that comes with dispersed camping.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pulaski, Virginia

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Walnut Flats, allow for campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; for instance, Scales Trailhead Basecamp does not provide drinking water, so bring enough supplies for your stay.
  • Most locations, such as Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, do not require permits, allowing for spontaneous trips without the hassle of reservations.

Hiking and exploring while free camping near Pulaski

Scenic spots for dispersed campers near Pulaski

  • The picturesque setting of Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers beautiful views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers.
  • Campers at Hurrican Road Roadside Camp can enjoy the convenience of drive-in access while being surrounded by the natural beauty of Virginia.
  • For a unique experience, consider Walnut Flats, where you can set up camp near a trail that connects to the Appalachian Trail, providing both adventure and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pulaski, VA is Walnut Flats with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Pulaski, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.