Dispersed camping options surround Staunton, Virginia throughout the George Washington National Forest. Unlike crowded park settings, these sites offer more solitude with varying access from easy drive-in spots to hike-only clearings. While most sites lack facilities, Braley Pond provides vault toilets and stream access in a location that sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Sherando Lake Campground connects to multiple trail systems, from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain routes. As one camper notes, "The tent pads are large and flat. There are family friendly hiking paths around the lake and upper fishing pond. There are also some kickass trails that climb to the Blue Ridge Parkway and intersect with the AT."
Water activities: At Shenandoah Valley Campground, visitors enjoy a creek for tubing with a waterfall for cooling off. "There is a big swimming pool, hot tubs, store, cafe with limited items. Tent sites by the river," according to one visitor who appreciated the variety of water options.
Outdoor adventures: The area around Devils Backbone Camp features excellent access to local outdoor activities. "Being at the base of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, there are many outdoor activities to take advantage of. We hiked to Humpback Rocks which is a decent climb, so be prepared, but once you summit, the views are amazing."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Braley Pond Dispersed Camping provides primitive sites with surprising privacy. "Car could be parked right next to us on site. Next to a creek, so good sounds and cool environment. Some walking trails. A pit toilet is located at the picnic site."
Riverside camping: Crabtree Falls Campground sites line the Tye River, creating a peaceful setting. "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night," shared one camper who enjoyed the natural soundscape.
On-site breweries: Many campers appreciate Devils Backbone Camp's proximity to craft beverages. One visitor noted, "From start to finish excellent. Family's first RV experience and it was great. 5 minute trail walk to the Devil's Backbone brewery. You can have several great beers with your meal and safely walk back to the camp site."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperatures and conditions vary significantly by season and elevation. Summers can be hot at lower elevations, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions.
Bear activity: Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park requires proper food storage. A visitor warned: "Each site has its own food locker which is really important because bears actually frequent the area. A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!"
Site availability: The best places to camp near Staunton often fill quickly during peak season. As one camper at Sherando Lake noted, "Half the sites are first come-first serve and half can be reserved. The only drawback is that many people love this park and it is difficult to get reservations. The window opens six months out."
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. At Devils Backbone Camp, visitors report: "Cell service and wi-fi are spotty at best, but what do you expect? You are in the middle of the mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Walnut Hills Campground offers a fishing pond and swimming pool. A visitor mentioned, "Looks like a fun place with lots of activities to come back to over the summer. The bathhouse was close and clean with laundry and dump site next to it."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly areas. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, "There is a huge playground with volleyball and basket ball court near the pavilion. Along with a small arcade room and a huge fire pit ring to hang out at."
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy observing local animals at Shenandoah Valley Campground, where "Wild but tame bunnies are everywhere," according to multiple reviewers who mentioned their children's fascination with the campground's resident rabbit population.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Devils Backbone Camp, RVers should note the unusual utilities arrangement. "The sewer connection for the odd number sites is on the opposite side of the RV than the electricity and water. The good news is that in a pinch, and your sewer hose does not fit, they do have a dump station on site."
Site selection: Walnut Hills Campground offers varying levels of shade. "The sites along the lower area near the lake were shaded mostly, some more than others, while the sites up the hill at the top and near the front entrance (pull through sites) were not shaded much."
Bathroom access: Sherando Lake Campground layout matters for RVers. A visitor advised, "There is a single bathhouse in the camp area that is near the tent area and a good walk from both the RV areas. The bathhouse was clean and functional."
