The Bassett, Virginia area connects to notable hiking trails and primitive camping options, with the Appalachian Trail system accessible within driving distance. Johns Spring Shelter on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail offers basic accommodations for hikers and backpackers seeking a rustic overnight experience. Within a broader radius, campers can also access the Shallow Ford Natural Area in North Carolina, providing a different camping environment with riverside sites. These locations represent the spectrum of primitive camping opportunities in the region, primarily catering to hikers and backpackers rather than vehicle-based camping.
Water access and planning are important considerations for campers in this region. Johns Spring Shelter lacks convenient water sources, with the nearest water approximately three miles north according to visitor reports. As one camper noted, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North." Sites are generally flat and suitable for tent camping, though amenities are minimal. The Shallow Ford Natural Area offers a more serene experience with natural features. A visitor described it as "very peaceful" with "lots of shade" and mentioned "fire rings" and hearing "the river in the background."
Hiking opportunities enhance the camping experience throughout the region. The Appalachian Trail section near Johns Spring Shelter includes access to McAfee Knob, described by one hiker as "one of the most photographed spots on the AT." This landmark can be reached via an 8-mile day hike for those not staying overnight. The Shallow Ford Natural Area connects to the Mountains to Sea Trail, providing additional hiking options. Campers report wildlife viewing opportunities, with birds and squirrels commonly seen. The primitive nature of these sites means visitors should prepare for self-sufficient camping, bringing necessary supplies including water or filtration equipment, especially when staying at Johns Spring Shelter where water access is limited.
"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."
$10 / night
"This campsite is on the Mountains to Sea Trail for those that are doing that. There’s lots of shade and it is very peaceful. It is pretty flat for your tent and there are fire rings."
RangerAs 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.
LegendI 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. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat. There is also a wooden shelter maintained by the AT, but those aren't my favorite to sleep in. Seemed nice as far as they go though.
I was hiking a little section that includes Mcafee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the AT. This spot is really awesome. It can also just be done as a day hike, so I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a 8ish mile hike. Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones. Lugging a crash pad all the way to the top isn't the most fun, but worth it if you want to get some cool bouldering in.
TravelerThis campsite is on the Mountains to Sea Trail for those that are doing that. There’s lots of shade and it is very peaceful. It is pretty flat for your tent and there are fire rings. Someone left me a bundle of wood. I hear the river in the background and lots of birds and squirrels. I would highly recommend this place.
Dispersed camping near Bassett, Virginia provides backcountry options for self-sufficient campers in the Blue Ridge Mountain region. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. These primitive camping areas generally lack developed facilities and require hikers to pack in all necessary supplies.
Bouldering opportunities: Near Johns Spring Shelter, experienced climbers can access routes at higher elevations. "Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones. Lugging a crash pad all the way to the top isn't the most fun, but worth it if you want to get some cool bouldering in," notes camper Sam M.
Mountain wildlife observation: The forests around primitive campsites harbor diverse wildlife. At Shallow Ford Natural Area, campers report good viewing conditions. One visitor mentioned, "I hear the river in the background and lots of birds and squirrels."
Long-distance trail connections: The Mountains to Sea Trail runs through Shallow Ford, providing extended hiking options. A camper confirmed, "This campsite is on the Mountains to Sea Trail for those that are doing that."
Natural shade coverage: Johns Spring Shelter and surrounding areas offer tree canopy protection. Shallow Ford Natural Area campsites feature "lots of shade and it is very peaceful," according to a recent visitor.
Established fire rings: Several primitive sites include basic fire rings. A camper at Shallow Ford noted, "It is pretty flat for your tent and there are fire rings. Someone left me a bundle of wood."
Tent-friendly terrain: The natural areas provide relatively level ground for setting up camp. A Johns Spring Shelter visitor described the area as having "sites that aren't bad though, pretty flat."
Limited water access: Plan water supplies carefully for backcountry camping. At Johns Spring Shelter, "The closest water source is about 3 miles North," according to visitor reports.
Basic shelter conditions: Appalachian Trail shelters provide minimal protection. One camper described Johns Spring as "pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source."
Varying site availability: During peak seasons, established sites may fill quickly. A visitor noted Johns Spring "is 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."
Consider shelter alternatives: For families with children, tent camping may be preferable to shared shelters. One camper mentioned wooden shelters at Shallow Ford Natural Area "aren't my favorite to sleep in. Seemed nice as far as they go though."
Plan shorter segments: When backpacking with children to dispersed sites near Bassett, allow extra time between destinations. The distance between water sources and shelters can exceed 3 miles in some sections.
Prepare for primitive conditions: Most dispersed camping areas lack developed facilities. A visitor described Johns Spring Shelter as "Cute but very basic," highlighting the need for family preparation.
Access limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Bassett require hiking to reach sites. The access types for Johns Spring Shelter are listed as "hike-in" and "walk-in" only, with no vehicle access to the shelter.
Alternative parking options: RVers must locate suitable trailhead parking for overnight stays. No dedicated RV sites exist at the primitive camping areas around Bassett.
Pack-in requirements: With no hookups or services available, RVers transitioning to tent camping need to carry all supplies. These dispersed sites have "NO electric-hookups" and "NO water-hookups" according to site listings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rules and permits are required for dispersed camping in Bassett Gulch?
Dispersed camping in Bassett Gulch follows standard Forest Service regulations: camping is limited to 14 days within a 30-day period, and campsites must be at least 100 feet from water sources and 150 feet from roads. No permits are required specifically for dispersed camping, but a valid Colorado fishing license is needed if fishing nearby streams. Like at Shallow Ford Natural Area, practice Leave No Trace principles by using existing fire rings, properly storing food to prevent wildlife encounters, and packing out all trash. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons, so check with the San Isabel National Forest office before your trip for current regulations.
Where is Bassett Gulch dispersed camping located in Colorado?
Bassett Gulch dispersed camping is located in the San Isabel National Forest in central Colorado, approximately 15 miles west of Buena Vista. This area sits along the eastern slopes of the Collegiate Peaks, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains. While specific facilities are limited like at Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Bassett Gulch provides a more remote experience. The area is accessible via Forest Service roads and typically opens after snowmelt in late spring, remaining available through fall depending on weather conditions.
Is 4WD required to access Bassett Gulch dispersed camping?
Access to Bassett Gulch dispersed camping generally requires high-clearance vehicles, with 4WD strongly recommended especially during or after rain when roads can become muddy and rutted. The Forest Service roads leading to the area are unpaved and can include rocky sections, water crossings, and steep portions. Conditions vary seasonally, with spring often presenting the most challenging access due to snowmelt and mud. Unlike established camping areas with maintained access roads, Bassett Gulch's remote nature means visitors should be prepared for primitive road conditions. During dry summer months, some experienced drivers navigate the area in 2WD high-clearance vehicles, but this isn't recommended for most visitors.
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