Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp in Virginia? Dispersed camping is camping where no facilities are provided. Search nearby dispersed sites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Virginia

The Best Dispersed Camping in Virginia

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Shenandoah National Park? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Shenandoah National Park. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Shenandoah National Park

The Best Dispersed Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Back-country Permit Required - https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/bc-permit.htm

Each year thousands of people spend a night or more in the Shenandoah’s backcountry. While visitors seek the backcountry for isolation, the cumulative actions of everyone in these areas can have dire effects on the resources we seek to enjoy. We can mitigate these effects by following Leave No Trace principles, as well as observing park backcountry regulations. The following regulations exist to keep Shenandoah's wilderness wild and untrammeled for you and for future generations of hikers and campers.

Hazeltop Summit Dispersed Camping

A free back country camping permit is required: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/bc-permit.htm

Shenandoah National Park has 196,000+ acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping is, by its very nature, a primitive experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. Before you head out on your trip, however, be sure that you understand all of the information below so that you'll be prepared to safely discover a brand new world beyond the pavement!

Each year thousands of people spend a night or more in the Shenandoah’s backcountry. While visitors seek the backcountry for isolation, the cumulative actions of everyone in these areas can have dire effects on the resources we seek to enjoy. We can mitigate these effects by following Leave No Trace principles, as well as observing park backcountry regulations. The following regulations exist to keep Shenandoah's wilderness wild and untrammeled for you and for future generations of hikers and campers.

Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed 

## Overview

Dundo Group Campground (mile 83.7) is a small, beautiful campground located in the southern part of Shenandoah National Park that offers group campsites, only. The Appalachian Trail passes through the campground. All sites include fire rings and picnic tables.

The southern end is a picnic area and the northern end is the campground with three reservable group campsites. All Dundo check-ins are at Loft Mountain Campground, mile 79.5. Check out or re-register by noon. Group camping fees are non-refundable and there are no discounts. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive nights per year.

## Recreation

Dundo provides a great base camp for group activities with easy access to the Appalachian Trail, Doyles River and many other popular hikes in the South District.

## Facilities

Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, food storage boxes, fire grates, and parking for up to five vehicles per site. Generators are prohibited. Your group must have a minimum of seven people and a maximum of twenty. Do not trench your tent or put nails in trees. Two vault toilet facilities are located at the campground/picnic area. Firewood, ice, groceries, laundry, pay phones, coin operated showers and camp store are available 3.7 miles north at the Loft Mountain Camp Store. These facilities are open May through October.

## Natural Features

Dundo offers three large, grassy group tent sites shaded by native oaks and mature pines. It is illegal to approach, feed, frighten, or disturb wildlife. Hunting is prohibited. The laws in our national parks protect all resources such as wildflowers, plants, animals, and artifacts.

## Nearby Attractions

Dundo is located at milepost 83.7 along the scenic Skyline Drive. The Loft Mountain Camp Store is located 3.7 miles north, at the Loft Mountain Campground (turn up the hill across from the Loft Mountain Wayside, the store is on the left). There are over 500 miles of trails located throughout the park. The closest visitor center is Byrd Visitor Center located at Milepost 51. **On Friday and Saturday during the summer, park Interpretative staff schedules Ranger programs at the Loft Mountain Amphitheater.**

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 48 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged

Dundo Group Campground

Shenandoah National Park has 196,000+ acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping is, by its very nature, a primitive experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. Before you head out on your trip, however, be sure that you understand all of the information below so that you'll be prepared to safely discover a brand new world beyond the pavement!

All sites are within 5-8 miles of Skyline Drive, starting from mile 21 in the North District.  All are near creeks (runs) and completely undeveloped.  Check with the Visitor Center for permits and camping regulations within the park.  Many, but not all trails, allow dogs.



Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

Gravel Springs Hut is 0.2 mi south of Gravel Springs Gap and another 0.2 mi down

Gravel Springs Hut

Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

This colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound.

Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.

Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

Compton Gap backcountry camping

Retreat in our forest! Great for couples, families, and groups!
No camping gear? No problem. Sites are stocked with kitchen essentials including dishes, utensils, pots and pans, a grill with propane, insect screen, chairs, hammocks, and much more! We have games you can borrow and a recreation area. Just bring a tent, sleeping bag, and food.

Phantom Hill Forest Farm

Switzer Lake

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay are some of the best camping locations in Virginia. Near Virginia Beach, VA, camping by the beach gives you easy access to water activities that include catching a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. The oceanside city is the ideal place to gather any supplies you need before heading to your campsite. Campgrounds by Fort Story let campers walk, boat, or drive up to campsites. RVers will also find all of the necessary amenities for their vehicles. Spend some time on the beach, tour the fort, and don’t forget to stop by the historic lighthouse.

Virginia Beach

The Best Virginia Beach Camping | Virginia Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Virginia Beach, VA has a lot to offer. Virginia Beach is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Virginia Beach, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Virginia Beach, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Norfolk. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norfolk camping trip.

Norfolk

The Best Camping Near Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Chesapeake, VA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Chesapeake

The Best Camping Near Chesapeake, Virginia

Arlington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Virginia

Richmond is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Richmond is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Richmond camping trip.

Richmond

The Best Camping Near Richmond, Virginia

Newport News is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Newport News and user-submitted reviews.

Newport News

The Best Camping Near Newport News, Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Alexandria, VA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alexandria. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Alexandria, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Alexandria

The Best Camping Near Alexandria, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Alexandria. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alexandria camping trip.

Join the fun near Blue Ridge Parkway. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Best Camping Near Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

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.

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Shenandoah National Park, VA has a lot to offer. Shenandoah National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shenandoah National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Prince William Forest Park, VA? Prince William Forest Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Prince William Forest Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Prince William Forest Park

The Best Camping Near Prince William Forest Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are George Washington & Jefferson National Forest campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—George Washington Memorial Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The Best Camping Near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

The Best Camping Near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia

Join the fun near Alabama River Lakes. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alabama River Lakes. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alabama River Lakes camping trip.

Alabama River Lakes

The Best Camping Near Alabama River Lakes, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Proctor Lake, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Proctor Lake and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Dispersed Camping in Shenandoah National Park

Top Campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park (14)

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