Best Dispersed Camping near Stanardsville, VA
Looking for dispersed camping near Stanardsville? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Stanardsville, VA (19)
1. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
Bentonville, Virginia15 Reviews•106 Photos•432 SavesShenandoah 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.
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Drinking Water
2. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia1 Review•2 Photos•7 SavesA 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.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
3. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Brandywine, West Virginia10 Reviews•57 Photos•409 SavesThis 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.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
West Augusta, Virginia11 Reviews•6 Photos•409 SavesBraley Pond Day Use Area is a very popular access to multiple trailheads including Ramsey's Draft Wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this universally accessible area perfect for family picnics, or plan to stay overnight in the adjacent dispersed camping site.
No dispersed camping allowed in picnic area.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Toilets
5. Crisman Hollow Road Camp
Mount Jackson, Virginia1 Review•22 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. Flagpole Knob
Brandywine, West Virginia7 Reviews•38 Photos•245 SavesForest Road 85 travels 3.6 miles to the summit of Flagpole Knob, wobbling along the top of the Alleghany Mountains following the border between Virginia and West Virginia. This high elevation access route brings the wildlife watcher into habitats not encountered elsewhere on the North River Loop of the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail.
- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. South Fork Shenandoah River
Rileyville, Virginia2 Reviews•12 Photos•82 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
8. Little Fort Campground
Woodstock, Virginia3 Reviews•8 Photos•119 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
9. Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
Bentonville, Virginia2 Reviews•11 Photos•46 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
10. Gravel Springs Hut — Shenandoah National Park
Washington, Virginia1 Review•17 Photos•31 SavesGravel Springs Hut is 0.2 mi south of Gravel Springs Gap and another 0.2 mi down
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Stanardsville
59 Reviews of 19 Stanardsville Campgrounds
- h
heather
Traveler
South Fork Shenandoah River
Great site, bad timing?
The site was wonderful! Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick. There is a launch in the middle, so there is a bit of come and go. The real issue was the land directly across the river that had 20+ people playing loud music at almost all hours. Docked one star for that but everything else was great. Bathrooms had no TP so bring your own, and please remember to pack out your trash! 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.
EDIT: I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable. Just keep this in mind when you go out.
- WWaseem H.
Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Quiet peaceful place
I didn’t find and good spots, but it was quiet and peaceful. I drove from there to flag pole. The trail was really fun and moderately difficult.
- WWaseem H.Guide
Flagpole Knob
Enjoyed the drive and stay
I drove to Switzer Lake first and from there stayed on the trail all the way to Flag Pole. The drive took a few hours but was a ton of fun. There are a few good spots up there and it gets fairly busy.
Kevin C.
RangerWolf Gap Recreation Area
An Outstanding Forest Service Campground
The road leading to the camp site from Wardensville was in excellent condition all the way to the camp site. There are e total of 9 campsites.
Most sites have a paved parking platform and then a second tier for the camp site. All sites are quite large and include picnic tables, fire rings and large tent platforms.
The campsite itself is beautifully wooded. Each campsite is mostly secluded from the rest of the park.
The campground has vaulted toilet and communal garbage receptical. There is a large day use area. There are several trails that intersect with the campsite ànd day hikers are a common site.
- NNeil M.
Scout
Shawl Gap
Hammock Camping
Great Hammock camping off the trail near shawls gap
- SSomadNomad M.Guide
Flagpole Knob
They Said....
They said, no way, I chuckled. 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!!!" what an Amazing view, don't use me as an example , you definitely should not drive your 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 159 wb campervan up that road like I did. so now that that's clear how about some pics?.it's absolutely pouring down rain and hail. how about some security cam footage?
Sumner C.GuideSouth Fork Shenandoah River
Great view on the river
The road to get to the campsite was well maintained and easy to get to. Campsites themselves were a tad overgrown but it was the beginning of the season. Seemed to be about a dozen spots to camp. Each site had its own fire pit. Quiet and peaceful.
kylie B.GuideSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Terrible road to get in
I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .
Emil D.TravelerSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Nice area the camp spots can use some work
I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.
The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.
There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.
The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.
Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.
TJ W.Traveler
Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
Amazing Campsite
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. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.
- NNora S.Ranger
Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
Hard to find.
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. I think, just like some other on the list, the easy camping might be a slight exaggeration. It was not particularly easy to find and we couldn’t find a super great spot. Good views on the hike.
- LLauren M.Scout
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Beautiful area!
I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. 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. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!
Leslie R.
Legend
Compton Gap Backcountry camping — Shenandoah National Park
Buggy and damp
Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.
Matt M.ScoutSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Beautiful, but...
My site was great. It was an established site with a fire ring. It had a large clearing with a pretty flat spot for my tent. I accessed the site on my motorcycle. You wouldn't get a car/truck to the site. The trail is only about 30 yards. I am not sure I was in a camping allowed spot though. Some reviews say you have to go farther down the road. So there is that. I need to get more specific guidelines. Regardless, it was a great night if camping. I was pretty discouraged by the amount of trash. I grabbed as much as I could fit, but I didn't have extra bags or extra room, being the bike.
- DDavid S.Traveler
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Great For No Hassle One-Night Camping
I only stopped there one night on my way through to Delaware, but it was just what I needed. Great views too, it was quite windy though on the lake. Might be something to keep in mind. Most vehicles should be fine coming in off of 33. From what I hear from another camper, it is rough coming the other way with anything other than something that can scale rocks
- Morgan H.Guide
Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
Great Spot for a Night
Sites had plenty of space with fire rings built out of rocks. Loved exploring the area and pond. Pond had a lot of trash along the shoreline and vault toilet was rather full. Otherwise, a great place for a night of camping.
Mikaela K.TravelerBraley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
Good spot to camp with a tent or a van
We took our conversion van and had no problems parking and pulling through to turn around when we left. Plenty of places to park or set up a tent along the road or at the end near the bathrooms and information center. A few nice hikes, and plenty of privacy. We did have to clean up after the last campers in our spot though, but other than that it was well taken care of
Matthew F.GuideSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Plenty of spots not near the lake
We couldn’t find the spots closer to the lake so we ended up alongside a creek further down the road from the switzer. The road is pretty rocky, but nothing crazy.. Take it slow and most vehicles can get by.
Our site was great and there were plenty to choose from. Where boots and run in to check out the various sites. I’m sure there would be even cooler ones
John R.Guide
Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
Love this National Forest!
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! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!
You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!
One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!
Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!
- Sydney D.Scout
Flagpole Knob
Awesome
If you really wanna be alone this is the spot. Camped up there with just my dog and I doubt there was a single person for miles around. The sunset and sunrise views are insane. Made it up in a stock Subaru Outback. Not difficult but definitely need at least a little bit of clearance.
- CConnor W.Scout
Switzer Lake
Need AWD and some ground clearance
Good little spot, used to go here a lot in college, the drive in can be done by a sedan but I’d definitely recommend AWD/4WD. Great views of the lake surround by pines, free access, drive through the stream to get to a few popular spots. Like most places, please leave it better than you found it, trash has been an issue
- Zach K.Traveler
James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping
Great, secluded location
The James River WMA is primarily used by hunters and fishermen throughout the year. However, one of the benefits of this place is that it is also open to dispersed campers! You simply need to purchase either a daily or annual access pass from the DWR website and then report which days you will be staying at the WMA--it's currently $23 for the annual pass.
After turning onto Midway Mills Lane from the northern end (route 626), there is a gravel access road about .5 miles down the road that is well-maintained. It almost immediately opens up into an open field where large rigs of any size can fit. There is another site further down the road, but it is smaller and primarily used for truck campers and tents.
This is where we stay any time I need to work in-office down in Lynchburg, VA. It is 20 minutes from the closest grocery store (Food Lion), liquor store, gas station, and propane supplier (Foster Fuels).
I had great T-Mobile service, but no ATT service--even with a powerful LTE antenna. I do not have Verizon so I cannot comment on their service.
This isn't a campsite for the best "scenery" or anything (though it is pretty in the morning), but it is quiet (you might sometimes hear dogs or gunshots from hunters who are near the water-fowl impoundment at the very end of the road by the river), secluded, and convenient. If you need a place in central Virginia to camp for (almost) free, this is it.
Jon N.GuideVeach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
My favorite Hike in the area
I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. 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. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.
adrian F.GuideFlagpole Knob
Perfect overlanding spot
We had some bad weather but still loved our trip. If you know it’s going to be windy don’t camp at the peak. There’s plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees. Very spaced out. Everyone you run into is nice and welcoming. Recommend vehicles with some ground clearance depending on which route you take up. Unbeatable views from the top.
Also there is raccoons. Tie up your trash and keep your shoes in your tent or vehicle. A few people lost shoes overnight while we were there and found them few hundred yards away.
- adrian F.Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Fantastic primitive get away
Great spot to get away. Super peaceful and relaxing. Make sure to secure food trash. Pack in what you pack out and more if possible. We found lots of trash on the trails and at campsites. There’s nothing there so plan ahead for water and bathroom use.
Adam G.TravelerSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Switzer is my go to spot coming from Harrisonburg!!
I’ve camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek. Switzer is a nice quiet place and perfect for big or small groups that never disappoints. It’s also empty on weeknights. Beautiful sunrises from the dam.
Emily T.Ranger
Spy Rock
Not easy but well worth it
I camped here 3 times, the hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it. This most recent time camping we discovered that apparently TECHNICALLY camping isn’t allowed anymore, but the fire pit and tent areas still seem in use and I really doubt someone would hike up there to tell you to leave. The trailhead is tricky to find if you don’t already know where it is, and there’s no service until you get up to the top. It’s literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you.
Guide to Stanardsville
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Stanardsville, Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Dispersed campers should check out Crisman Hollow Road Camp
- This site features numerous quiet spots right by the water, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy fishing or relaxing by the river.
- A nearby hiking trail offers a scenic route for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.
- While some roads may be closed and litter can be an issue, the peaceful atmosphere makes it worth the visit.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Stanardsville, Virginia
- Always pack out your trash to help maintain the pristine environment, especially at places like Switzer Lake, where litter has been a concern.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed does not provide drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season to enjoy a quieter experience, as some sites can fill up quickly, like South Fork Shenandoah River.
Scenic views await at Flagpole Knob
- This location offers breathtaking views and a sense of solitude, perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.
- Access requires a vehicle with some ground clearance, making it a great adventure for off-road enthusiasts.
- The area is known for its stunning sunsets and sunrises, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Stanardsville, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Stanardsville, VA is Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Stanardsville, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Stanardsville, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.