Dispersed camping options near Salem, Virginia include several free primitive sites within George Washington National Forest. Elevations range from 1,200 to 2,500 feet across the region, creating varied microclimates with cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Summer nights typically drop into the 50s even when daytime temperatures reach 80-90°F, requiring campers to pack accordingly for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Bouldering adventures: The area surrounding McAfee Knob offers climbing opportunities beyond just hiking. "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," notes a Johns Spring Shelter visitor.
Creek exploration: Many sites along FR 812 provide direct water access for filtering, cooling off, or ambient sound. "There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," reports one camper at George Washington National Forest off 812, who appreciated the creek-side location.
Summit hiking: Beyond the Appalachian Trail, local roads connect to additional viewpoints. "There is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!" shares a visitor who stayed at one of the additional sites along FR 812 when their first choice was occupied.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Despite multiple sites in close proximity, campers report minimal interaction. "I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. You loose cell service a couple miles from the site. The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping," reports one visitor who appreciated the isolation at dispersed sites.
Established amenities: Some free sites offer more infrastructure than typical dispersed camping. "It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didnt smell," notes a camper at Walnut Flats, one of the more developed free options.
Flexible arrival options: Several campers mention successfully finding sites even without early arrival. "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one," shares one visitor who found availability despite arriving later in the day.
What you should know
Water considerations: Not all sites have reliable water sources nearby. The Johns Spring Shelter area requires planning ahead as "there is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North," according to one hiker's experience.
Communication limitations: Cell service disappears quickly in this area. "You loose cell service a couple miles from the site," notes one camper, while another at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 states "No cell service(T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Site availability strategies: Some visitors suggest exploring beyond your initial target. "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site & we got one for 3 nights," reports a successful camper who found alternatives along the same forest road.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple-site groups: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings. One camper found "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other" at a dispersed site, making it suitable for family reunions or multi-family camping.
Accessible nature exploration: Flat areas near water provide natural entertainment for children. "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream," notes a visitor regarding the terrain advantages.
Safety considerations: The creek access that enhances many sites requires supervision for younger campers. "We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet," shares one anniversary camper at George Washington National Forest.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "There's 2 sites that I saw on the road with pits," notes a camper, but larger RVs should research carefully before attempting access.
Leveling requirements: Even in sites accessible to RVs, preparation may be necessary. "I stayed just shy of 2 weeks and 1 other came in a few days after me and stayed the whole time I was there and both of us worked on our rv without any disturbances," shares a visitor at Walnut Flats who found the site suitable for extended stays and minor maintenance.
Road conditions: Forest roads deteriorate seasonally, requiring assessment for RV access. "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out," explains one camper about accessing certain sites off the main road.
