Top Free Dispersed Camping near Ridgeway, VA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Ridgeway? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Ridgeway just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ridgeway, VA (1)

    Camper-submitted photo from Shallow Ford Natural Area

    1. Shallow Ford Natural Area

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    17 Saves

    The Shallow Ford Campsites are located along The Haw river. The Haw River Trail provides public access to Alamance County’s most important natural feature. Built on the idea of conservation through recreation, the land and paddle trails allow the community to explore and appreciate its river while helping to conserve and protect this important resource.

    Primitive backcountry campsite located approximately one mile from parking area. Access by hiking or paddling only!

    The department requires that a responsible adult accompany each group. Group limit is 10 people.

    Fee: $10 per group (County & Non-County Resident)

    Please choose your arrival day for your reservation, we will know you are staying the night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available

    $10 / night


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Ridgeway

1 Reviews of 1 Ridgeway Campgrounds


  • Linda
    Camper-submitted photo from Shallow Ford Natural Area
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Shallow Ford Natural Area

    Peaceful camping

    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. 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.



Guide to Ridgeway

Camping near Ridgeway, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hanging Rock State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The park has 5 waterfalls... almost all the hikes involve a steep hill climb of stairs." It's a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A reviewer said, "The lake beach area is particularly nice and staffed by lifeguards."
  • Mountain Biking: Check out Pilot Mountain State Park Campground for mountain biking trails. One visitor noted, "Impressive small campground with clean and well-appointed sites."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. A happy camper said, "The bathrooms and laundry room are exceptionally clean."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpful staff at Claytor Lake State Park Campground. One reviewer shared, "Friendly staff. Would definitely go back!"
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spacious sites at Goose Point Park. A family mentioned, "The well-maintained, spacious campsites provided privacy."

What you should know:

  • No Showers at Some Campgrounds: If you're staying at Peaks of Otter Campground, be aware that there are no showers. A camper noted, "There are no showers. The staff were friendly and were able to help with all questions I had."
  • Limited Amenities: At Eno River State Park Campground, amenities are basic. One visitor said, "The gates close at 7:30 pm... Overall an amazing spot. I’d highly recommend."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads. A camper at Mayberry Campground mentioned, "Only complaints it was near interstate traffic."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Hagan-Stone Park. A reviewer said, "Very nice playgrounds... one of the best to just get away and relax."
  • Plan for Water Activities: If your family enjoys swimming, consider Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The pool was nice. Restroom/Showers were wonderful and clean."
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Many campgrounds have open spaces for games. A camper at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA mentioned, "They have a pool, a pond, a playground, a dog park."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pilot Mountain State Park Campground noted, "Parking at Sites 23, 25, 26 is pretty level for a truck or camper van."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, Claytor Lake State Park Campground offers them. A camper said, "The majority of the power/water sites are pull through making life easy."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some campgrounds, like Goose Point Park, have spotty cell service. A visitor mentioned, "Cell data coverage a bit spotty."

Camping near Ridgeway, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ridgeway, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ridgeway, VA is Shallow Ford Natural Area with a 5-star rating from 1 review.