Best Dispersed Camping near Strasburg, VA
Dispersed camping occurs in several locations surrounding Strasburg, Virginia, primarily within George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park lands. The region includes primitive campsites along forest service roads, riverside areas such as South Fork Shenandoah River, and backcountry zones at Veach Gap and Little Fort. Free camping is permitted at multiple locations including Squirrel Gap Road and Squirrel Hollow Road areas, though Shenandoah National Park requires permits for backcountry camping and some sites have entrance fees despite being listed as dispersed.
Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads that can become challenging during wet conditions. Little Fort Campground provides vault toilets and designated tent pads but no drinking water, while most other areas offer no facilities whatsoever. Vehicles with higher clearance may be necessary for reaching remote locations like Squirrel Hollow Road. Fire restrictions vary by location - fires are prohibited at Compton Gap and Gravel Springs Hut but permitted at most other sites. "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," noted one camper about South Fork Shenandoah River area.
The dispersed sites in this region provide opportunities for wildlife observation and access to hiking trails. Several areas connect to the Appalachian Trail, particularly in Shenandoah National Park where black bears are common. Campers should be prepared for variable conditions including limited or no cell service at most locations. Sites at Veach Gap require a four-mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain but reward with panoramic views. "Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site," according to one reviewer. Weather impacts accessibility, with riverside sites occasionally flooding after heavy rains, and mountain locations experiencing seasonal closures.
