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Best Dispersed Camping near Star Tannery, VA

45 Reviews

The mountainous terrain surrounding Star Tannery, Virginia provides diverse camping experiences within the George Washington National Forest and nearby public lands. Little Fort Campground offers basic amenities with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, while requiring no reservations. Campers simply claim available sites using a self-service board system. Several dispersed camping options exist along forest roads, including Squirrel Hollow Road Camping and Squirrel Gap Road Dispersed sites, which provide primitive camping with minimal facilities. The nearby Veach Gap backpacking site requires a moderate 4-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain but rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Shenandoah River valley.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites accessible only via winding mountain roads that may become challenging during wet weather. Cell service is notably limited or nonexistent at most camping areas, as one camper noted: "No reception at all but drive 5 minutes back down the mountain and you're good to go." Wildlife encounters, particularly black bears, are common throughout the area, requiring proper food storage. Weather patterns can change rapidly due to elevation differences, with spring bringing significant temperature variations. Many forest roads remain unpaved, and several campers recommend high-clearance vehicles for accessing more remote sites.

Visitors consistently highlight the solitude and natural beauty available at most sites, though noise from nearby OHV trails affects some locations. According to one camper at Little Fort: "It is very peaceful in the woods. The only thing is it is next to an off-road vehicle trail and there was a lot of action coming down until about 7 PM." Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings and flat tent pads, though amenities are minimal. Weekends typically see higher usage, especially during summer and fall. The proximity to Shenandoah National Park provides additional hiking opportunities, with many campers using these free or low-cost sites as base camps for exploring the broader region's extensive trail networks and scenic viewpoints.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Star Tannery, Virginia (17)

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47 Photos of 17 Star Tannery Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Star Tannery, VA

45 Reviews of 17 Star Tannery Campgrounds

  • Dave V.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Shoulder season solitude...flora and fauna delight

    Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, part of the Monongahela National Forest, offers something for every hiker, backpacker, camper.

    Having visited Dolly Sods numerous times at the Red Creek Campground, using that as the base camp to launch off to explore the myriad of trails. We decided to use the backcountry as a primer for the following year's longer westerly  backbacking trip. 

    Know that it will likely rain on you in Dolly Sods, so always bring rain gear. Also realize, that with climate and conditions similar to the Canadian Tundra, temperatures and winds vary and fluctuate often, any time of year. Those two conditions often dissuade less hearty souls...but they are also exactly what creates and sustains a very beautiful environment.

    During our excursion, we spent three nights and four days on what I will term the perimeter trails...camping at Raven Ridge, Big Stonecoal Run creek, and at Reds Creek at the forks. Numerous websites offer insight and directions and all are beneficial to study. We chose to travel counter-clockwise from Bear Rocks, parking in the grass across from the trailhead. Note: leaving valuables in or on your vehicle while you traipse about in the Sods is always iffy, just like anywhere else, so use wisdom. I've read of thefts...but the vehicle parked to us had two high end full-suspension mountain bikes on a roof rack for days without issue.

    If you are unfamiliar with Dolly Sods Wilderness trails...choose footwear that either dries fast or is waterproof...has a robust sole to fend off bruises from the brutal amount of sharp, ankle buster rocks on the trail...and won't pull off and be lost in the countless bogs and areas of shoe sucking mud. We wanted to rename one particular trail "pointed rock trail." Our expensive boots were actually a fail for this trip...which was a valuable education.

    We saw people run this trail in a day...but there's no way you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells moving that quickly. I felt we should've taken more time and explored much more...although soggy weather became a deterrent. The amount of brightly colored fungi, snakes, crayfish and salamanders were astonishing. So if you move too quickly, you miss them.

    Do practice "leave no trace." The heavy summer and weekend use by careless and selfish hikers or backcountry partiers...has left the woods adjacent to Reds Creek camping sites littered with toilet paper...dig your cat hole and bury your "goods!"

    The rocks on the trail may be a pain, but the formations and views from Raven's Ridge, Lion's Head and Bear Rocks rival the best.

    Do your homework, choose your camping gear and wardrobe wisely and launch off into the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area...you'll be glad you did!

  • Jon N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2022

    Veach 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.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 13, 2020

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Allegheny mountain wilderness

    Dolly Sods is a wilderness area within the great Monongahela National Forest. I backpacked here in early March a few years ago. Definitely be prepared for high winds and rain. We hiked in in warm weather and once we reached the top of a long entrance road (where one trailhead was) we found snow. A lot of the snow had melted making the ground very soggy and oversaturated in some areas. Despite this, our short Dolly Sods backpacking trip was an amazing first trek for myself and a fiend. Dolly Sods is absolutely gorgeous and is a completely different and unique ecosystem than the surrounding area. I also have friends who have camped here later in the year - mid to late summer - and have highly, highly, recommended that I go back during that time.

  • Sean M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2020

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Wilderness of the West in the East

    The sods are a truly wild and remote place in an increasingly crowded East coast. For years Dolly Sods has been my go-to backcountry destination, even for chilly winter stays. Many places carry the “wilderness” moniker in the East, but this place lives up to it. No cell service, no car camping, no trail markers, no toilets, and no running water. It’s the real deal. During the off season you can hike for days and not see another person. There are some opportunities to camp closer to the trailhead for those only looking to dip a toe into wilderness travel, but you could hike for miles to a remote site as well. Be advised, a good physical map and compass, the skills needed to use them, are vital here. There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing. Come prepared and have a great adventure.

  • Kelly G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2021

    Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed

    Great location near Dolly Sods Wilderness

    Brushy Ridge Road is Forest Service Road 75 and is in decent condition. There are several pull off campsites along this road on the way up to Dolly Sods wilderness but this primitive group of three large unmarked campsites with stone fire rings is before you get to the Bear Flats Plateau and the Red Creek camp grounds. It is a 2.5 mile, 2000’ climb to get to the trailhead for Bear Rocks Trail in Bear Rocks Preserve which is about a half mile past the entrance to this unmarked group site. I camped in the middle of these three large campsites that are each about 100 feet away from each other. Firewood was available on a self serve honor system (put $5 cash in the box for each bundle you take) at the farmhouse across from the turn on to Brushy Creek.

  • John R.
    Aug. 20, 2022

    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!

  • Jacqueline F.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Amazing drive and lots of wildlife

    We only stayed one night, but wish we could have stayed more! The campground offers so many different trails and breathtaking scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got there, we saw several deer. I’d almost say they were friendly :) No electric hookups, but the weather was beautiful! We hiked part of the Appalachian Trail which gets pretty steep. I didn’t use the bathrooms or the coin operated showers as we have them in our RV, but they had the services available. It is a drive through the mountains to get to the campsite, but very well worth it for us!

  • Hannah V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2018

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Backcountry Gold

    Did a four-day hike of the 26-mile loop in Dolly Sods Wilderness, first night we camped was at Ravens Ridge. There were some camps already in that area but in the woods, however we chose to set up camp on the ridge with a view of Canaan Valley. The next day we hiked to Big Stone Coal Creek, where we set up for the night, a campsite had been left from other hikers with a makeshift fire pit and stone chairs. On day 3, we hiked up to Lion’s head where there were lots of campsites from past hikers, but we continued on to Red Creek where we camped for the night. Lots of weekend warriors’ hike into Red Creek for the weekend, so lots of campsites but also be weary of the people who don’t know how to use the restroom in nature, lots of flies and toilet paper lying about. The trails were all well marked, I would still bring a map of the trails and know which ones you want to take before heading out into this vast wilderness. Also, be aware that during the summer lots of rain fall so trails will be muddy and some trails almost completely underwater, Dobbins Grade is one of the trails that typically is wet and muddy most of the summer and fall.

    You can backpack in any season of the year here, but both roads (Forest Road 19 and 75) leading to Dolly Sods are winding and steep so in snowy or ice conditions could be dangerous. You can park at Bear Rocks or right in front of the trail head, you will see a good majority of cars parked in those areas from people backpacking in or day hiking. There are multiple ways back into the wilderness, the first is close to Red Creek campground along the Blackbird Knob Trail, Dolly Sods picnic area has the trailhead for Rohrbaugh trail, Red Creek trail starts on Forest Road 19, then Forest Road 19 turns into 75 and you have multiple Trailheads along that route until Bear Rocks.

Guide to Star Tannery

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Star Tannery, Virginia, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, it's the perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Star Tannery, Virginia

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites, require a permit, so be sure to check the regulations before you go.
  • Look for hidden gems by researching online; some campers have discovered free sites that aren't widely advertised, such as Blowing Springs Campground in Bath County.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Little Fort Campground has no drinking water or electric hookups, so bring everything you need.

Scenic hikes and breathtaking views for dispersed campers

  • The Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site offers stunning views of the Shenandoah River after a rewarding hike, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Hikers can enjoy the Appalachian Trail, which is accessible from various dispersed camping areas, providing a chance to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Don't miss the chance to explore Falling Spring Falls, a spectacular waterfall located near some of the dispersed camping spots, enhancing your outdoor adventure.

Dispersed campers should check out South Fork Shenandoah River

  • The South Fork Shenandoah River is a great spot for those who enjoy fishing and kayaking, with easy access to the water.
  • This area features several campsites that are well-maintained, but be mindful of noise from nearby gatherings, especially during peak times.
  • Remember to pack out your trash, as many dispersed sites, including those along the river, do not have trash disposal facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Star Tannery, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Star Tannery, VA is Little Fort Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Star Tannery, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Star Tannery, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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