Best Dispersed Camping near Shenandoah National Park

Alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia sits Shenandoah National Park. This pocket of Virginia holds some of the best camping and nature viewing in the state. This is an outdoor paradise filled with scenic trails for campers and thru-hikers alike.

Shenandoah National Park has five established campgrounds, which open in early spring and close in late fall. Only the Matthews Arm and Big Meadows campground have RV accommodations available, and all campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance. In the off-season, the best camping near Shenandoah National Park is in the nearby Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where you can disperse camp for free. If you want to stay in the main city, choose Harrisonburg, VA.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Shenandoah National Park (19)

    1. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

    1 Review
    Shenandoah National Park, VA
    3 miles
    Website

    "This campsite is another one we found on a list provided by Shenandoah’s park rangers and was listed as moderate hike and easy camping."

    2. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    15 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    "Night 1: Overall Run Camp: This is the third established site along the trail downhill from Overall Run Falls, near the junction of the Overall Run Trail and the Tuscarosa Trail."

    "There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights!"

    3. Crisman Hollow Road Camp

    1 Review
    Mount Jackson, VA
    18 miles

    "There was one really nice hiking trail by the bridge. Cons: Some roads were closed. Some spots were full of trash."

    4. South Fork Shenandoah River

    2 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    23 miles

    "Plenty of firewood from downed trees, sites are dirt which makes staking down easy, but I can imagine it would be muddy if it rains."

    5. Little Fort Campground

    4 Reviews
    Woodstock, VA
    29 miles

    "The campsites have a fire ring, a picnic table, and a flat area to pitch a tent. They have parking spots next to them. There are permanent structure Vault toilets/ out houses."

    "Love staying here for just a night couple small trails around the area not any great views but it is very peaceful in the woods."

    6. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Brandywine, VA
    37 miles
    Website

    "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road."

    "Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot."

    8. Flagpole Knob

    8 Reviews
    Brandywine, VA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "They Said , you need a high clearance vehicle, I cleared my throat. They said, you need 4 wheel drive, I SAID "ILL SEND YOU PICTURES!!!""

    "This site requires a 4x4 vehicle with clearance.  The trail leading to and from camp can be a bit tricky for some."

    9. Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    2 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    31 miles
    Website

    "You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection."

    "Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site."

    10. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    13 Reviews
    West Augusta, VA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system."

    "Car could be parked right next to us on site 2. Next to a creek, so good sounds and cool environment 3. Some walking trails 4."

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Shenandoah National Park

60 Reviews of 19 Shenandoah National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Shenandoah National Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.

Dispersed campers should check out South Fork Shenandoah River

  • This site allows for a peaceful retreat with easy access to the river, making it perfect for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • With no permit required, you can set up camp quickly and enjoy the natural surroundings without the hassle of reservations.
  • The area is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the great outdoors together.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Shenandoah National Park in Virginia

  • Always pack out your trash to keep the environment clean, as some sites like Crisman Hollow Road Camp have reported issues with litter.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many spots, such as Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed, do not offer drinking water or toilets, so bring your own supplies.
  • Check the road conditions before heading out, as some areas can be tricky to navigate, especially for low-clearance vehicles, like those leading to Switzer Lake.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Shenandoah National Park

  • The Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site offers stunning vistas of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains, rewarding hikers with incredible scenery after a moderate trek.
  • For those who appreciate wildlife, sites like Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites provide opportunities to spot deer and other animals in their natural habitat.
  • If you're looking for a quiet escape, Little Fort Campground is nestled in the woods, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the noise of more developed areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Shenandoah National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Shenandoah National Park is Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Shenandoah National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Shenandoah National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.