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Best Dispersed Camping near Sumerduck, VA

29 Reviews

Shenandoah National Park offers backcountry dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance of Sumerduck, requiring permits for overnight stays. Sites vary from established areas along Overall Run and Jeremy Run to more remote locations along trails like Laurel Prong and Veach Gap. Most sites have no facilities beyond occasional pit toilets, and campers must pack in all water or filter from streams. The standard 14-day camping limit applies throughout the park's backcountry areas.

Forest Service roads provide access to several dispersed sites including Crisman Hollow Road Camp, which accommodates both tents and RVs with basic toilet facilities. South Fork Shenandoah River offers riverside camping with direct water access, though visitors note varying experiences with noise. As one camper reported, "The site was wonderful! Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick." Fire restrictions are common during summer months, with most backcountry areas in Shenandoah prohibiting campfires year-round while some Forest Service sites permit fires in established rings when conditions allow.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Sumerduck, Virginia (8)

    1. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    15 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    "Night 1: Overall Run Camp: This is the third established site along the trail downhill from Overall Run Falls, near the junction of the Overall Run Trail and the Tuscarosa Trail."

    "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!"

    2. South Fork Shenandoah River

    6 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    42 miles

    "The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours."

    "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."

    3. Little Fort Campground

    6 Reviews
    Woodstock, VA
    48 miles

    "The campsites have a fire ring, a picnic table, and a flat area to pitch a tent. They have parking spots next to them. There are permanent structure Vault toilets/ out houses."

    "Love staying here for just a night couple small trails around the area not any great views but it is very peaceful in the woods."

    4. Gravel Springs Hut — Shenandoah National Park

    1 Review
    Washington, VA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 535-6331

    5. Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Shenandoah National Park, VA
    39 miles
    Website

    "About as flat as you’ll get, the hike here was nice."

    "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."

    6. Compton Gap Backcountry camping — Shenandoah National Park

    1 Review
    Huntly, VA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    7. Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    2 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    44 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "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."

    8. Crisman Hollow Road Camp

    2 Reviews
    Mount Jackson, VA
    49 miles

    "A bit dirty but awesome spot near a creek"

    "There was one really nice hiking trail by the bridge. Cons: Some roads were closed. Some spots were full of trash."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Sumerduck, VA

35 Photos of 8 Sumerduck Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Sumerduck, VA

29 Reviews of 8 Sumerduck Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Beautiful spot!

    Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours. Unfortunately there was a decent bit of trash we cleaned up. The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow

  • Amanda D.
    May. 9, 2019

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Beautiful views, well-maintained trails, variety of amenities

    I recently led a large group of Scouts to the Mathews Arm Campground in SNP. We spread out over 4 RV/camper/tent sites as our base camp. There was definitely a lot less privacy/space between sites here at SNP than I’ve noted at other parks across Virginia. I suppose it’s because it’s a national park, with a big draw and higher volume of visitors. The roads were well-marked and paved nicely. The bathrooms were okay, I’ve been in better-maintained/cleaned ones and worse ones, so I’m not going to complain. They were quite prevalent though. The staff that circulate around the park were quite friendly! We had a lovely hike to a nearby waterfall that was gorgeous. We even took a group out hiking across the AT and did some backcountry camping. I was impressed by how well-maintained the trails were! We had a really nice time and I look forward to returning again soon. I will note that our original reservation was for the Southern Section, but because of the winter storms, there was a lot of storm damage which caused them to close down quite a bit of Skyline Drive and they automatically shifted our reservation (with the option to cancel) to the Northern Section of the SNP. So, we didn’t hike what we expected to, but we still had a nice time, regardless. Plus, a couple days before our trip they did open the Southern Section, but we left our reservations and plans alone.

  • TJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2023

    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.

  • M
    May. 17, 2018

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Great backpacking

    There are so many trails to hike throughout the park and with a backcountry permit, you can find countless campsites. I stayed in the area of overall run falls. Make sure to hang your food. There are plenty of black bears in the area.

Guide to Sumerduck

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Sumerduck, Virginia, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Sumerduck, Virginia

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites, are free and provide a chance to enjoy the natural beauty without the hassle of reservations.
  • Always check for permit requirements before heading out, as some areas, such as Gravel Springs Hut, require permits for overnight stays.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Compton Gap Backcountry camping has no toilets or trash disposal, so plan to pack out what you bring in.

Scenic hikes while free camping near Sumerduck

  • The trails around South Fork Shenandoah River offer breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a great choice for hiking enthusiasts.
  • If you're looking for a challenge, the hike to Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site rewards you with stunning vistas after a 4-mile trek.
  • For a more relaxed experience, the area around Little Fort Campground features small trails that are perfect for leisurely walks in the woods.

Dispersed campers should check out the South Fork Shenandoah River

  • This location is well-reviewed for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the river, making it ideal for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • While camping at South Fork Shenandoah River, be mindful of the nearby noise from recreational activities across the river, especially during peak times.
  • The site offers basic facilities like toilets, but remember to bring your own toilet paper and pack out any trash to keep the area pristine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sumerduck, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sumerduck, 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 Sumerduck, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Sumerduck, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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