Best Dispersed Camping near Tazewell, VA

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout Jefferson and Washington National Forests near Tazewell, Virginia. Several free primitive camping areas are available within these public lands, including Little Tumbling Creek, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, Whitetop, Scales Trailhead Basecamp, Walnut Flats, and Hidden Valley WMA. Most sites are undeveloped with minimal amenities, situated along creeks, forest roads, or mountain ridges, providing access to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail systems.

Many dispersed sites require careful navigation on rough forest roads. The road to Scales Trailhead Basecamp demands high-clearance 4WD vehicles, with campers noting it takes about 45 minutes from the main road to reach the campground. Whitetop Mountain sites have rough areas but are generally accessible when driven slowly. Hidden Valley WMA requires a Virginia Wildlife Access permit ($4) with a camping authorization for stays up to 14 days. Most areas allow fires in established rings when no fire bans are in effect, though campers should bring all necessary supplies as drinking water is typically unavailable except at Walnut Flats.

The camping experience varies significantly across these dispersed sites. Creek-side locations are particularly valued for their ambiance and water access. "The sound of the creek seemed to drown out all road noise," reported one camper at Mount Rogers. Sites along Bear Creek offer "large, very shaded" camping spots with access to multiple outdoor activities. Weather conditions can be challenging at higher elevations—Whitetop Mountain campers face considerable wind exposure with one noting "the wind is killer and probably never lets up." Cell service is largely unavailable at most sites, with campers reporting "absolutely no Verizon service" at Little Tumbling Creek and Washington & Jefferson Forest sites, requiring trips into nearby towns like Damascus for reliable coverage.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tazewell, Virginia (8)

    1. Little Tumbling Creek

    3 Reviews
    Saltville, VA
    15 miles
    Website

    "There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing. Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents."

    "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping."

    2. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Sugar Grove, VA
    23 miles
    Website

    "Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, there are multiple free national forest camping spots along the creek, just off Hwy 58. The sound of the creek seemed to drowned out all road noise."

    "It is a little close to the main road, as others have mentioned, but it was still removed enough for me to feel remote. The creek is loud and the trees offered privacy."

    3. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    7 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 265-5100

    "At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."

    "Coordinates take you right to the site and there’s a small gravel road you can pull into. The campsite is directly off the forest road, maybe 20 feet."

    4. Whitetop

    6 Reviews
    Whitetop, VA
    34 miles

    "Nice spot to pitch a tent or for car camping. Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets."

    "Great view but the drive in is a bumpy rock terrain so some clearance is a must . Signal at the hill top T-mobile 2 bars LTE"

    5. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    32 miles

    "Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine. The campground itself is great! "

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

    6. Walnut Flats

    4 Reviews
    Staffordsville, VA
    35 miles

    "Quiet place with plenty of firewood on the ground. Occasional.peiole driving through but a great experience!"

    "There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage."

    7. Hidden Valley WMA

    4 Reviews
    Willis, VA
    37 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available."

    "This spot is very nice, close to the water’s edge (although no camping allowed lakeside). There’s quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo. We had the place to ourselves which was really great."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tazewell, VA

38 Reviews of 8 Tazewell Campgrounds


  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 24, 2018

    Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    FREE roadside camping!

    Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, there are multiple free national forest camping spots along the creek, just off Hwy 58. The sound of the creek seemed to drowned out all road noise.

    Sites are first come, first served, have no picnic table or toilet, but all seem to have an established fire ring and access to the creek for water. Bring your water filter and portable potty!

    Within 3 miles of these spots along the creek, you will find the famous and gorgeous Virginia Creeper Trail, the Whitetop Laurel Creek, and the Appalachian Trail. So bring your bikes, fishing poles, kayaks, and hiking boots for a full week of adventure. We couldn’t get enough of this gorgeous area and hit the early spring weather spot on for some fun in the sun!

    The closest town is Damascus which are filled with companies that will load your bikes on a trailer and haul you and your bike to Whitetop Mountain where you can hop on the Virginia Creeper Trail for 17 miles of easy downhill coasting (or 34 miles if you choose to go all the way to Abingdon). Or, for more of a workout, you can hop on the trail at various access points and ride uphill and coast down. For whitewater fun, consult the American Whitewater website for the runnable area/range of the Whitetop Laurel Creek.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2020

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Creekside Camping

    At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant.  The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek.

    Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace! 

    Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease. We stayed at this camp for 3 weeks during the pandemic shutdown and it was a perfect place to ride out this crazy storm and decompress from some anxiety. 

    The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.

  • Glennie V.
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

    First time trying dispersed-camping and was super excited originally! We followed the coordinations and pulled into an off-road spot. Initially we felt pretty comfortable riding through the national park. However when we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car: It was a man and female. They appeared to be smoking meth and had a distinctive smell coming from their truck. They were making incoherent noises and could barely hold their heads up. They then pulled out a gun and started shooting at the signs near the road. Needless to say we quickly packed our gear and left. It was definitely scary and not the best encounter for first time dispersed camping. Thankfully I was with my partner and felt safe with him. If I was alone, I'm unsure how safe I would've felt, as a traveling/camping solo-female. We were able to find another dispersed campground down the road about 15-20 mins alongside the road. We also saw more people car-camping and doing the same: so overall we felt better about the situation. However, I'm not sure if I'd recommend this spot or go back again: Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!

  • Jon M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2024

    Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    Serious off road capability needed

    The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick.

  • Betsy W.
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Great peaceful place

    Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available. Rocks for fire pits and no tables.

  • s
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Little Tumbling Creek

    Secluded campsite by creek

    This is a small campsite that I believe is on hunting land. You pass a sign going in toward it that states as much. There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing. Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents. It is very secluded from people, but no tree line or anything to camp in. All in all it’s a nice site. Absolutely no verizon service a the site.

  • s
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Small site right by road and creek

    Coordinates take you right to the site and there’s a small gravel road you can pull into. The campsite is directly off the forest road, maybe 20 feet. It’s a nice spot with some flat areas to put a tent if you don’t mind being close to the road.

    Right across the road there’s actually a second road that goes into the forest on the opposite site. Buddy and I actually set up our tent over there instead, as it was more in the tree line, a bit more protected, and farther back from the road. Had a nice night and no one bothered us. Absolutely no verizon service.

  • Jay N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    Isolated & wonderful!

    We've been going to Scales for several years now, & it's one of the few places we keep revisiting! Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.

    The campground itself is great! It's right on the AT, so there are lots of through hikers that you'll see stop in for a night. That also means that there's lots of great hiking options! Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!

    Additionally, there are a lot of fire pits& there are pit toilets.

  • Clayton S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2021

    Whitetop

    Whitetop Mountain

    Nice spot to pitch a tent or for car camping. Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets.


Guide to Tazewell

Dispersed camping areas in Jefferson and Washington National Forests near Tazewell, Virginia range from 1,700 to 5,500 feet in elevation. Most sites experience significant temperature variations between day and night, with mountain locations often 10-15°F cooler than surrounding valleys. Road conditions can be challenging, particularly after rain or during winter months when ice may form on forest roads.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Little Tumbling Creek connects to Laurel Bed Lake where anglers can fish throughout the warm season. "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek," notes one Little Tumbling Creek camper.

Trail exploration: Several significant hiking routes intersect the camping areas. "The Appalachian Trail provides some great hiking," reports a visitor to Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Trail connections are abundant with "trail right through the campground and the Appalachian trail just across the road" at Walnut Flats.

Water recreation: Beyond fishing, the reservoirs and lakes support other activities. At Hidden Valley WMA, campers appreciate that the "Lake is calm and clean for water recreation." The area includes swimming holes where visitors report having "a gorgeous swim" at Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites.

What campers like

Creek sounds: Many campers value the ambient noise from waterways. A visitor to Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites noted "the sound of the creek was lovely all night." Others describe the "quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery" at Little Tumbling Creek.

Night sky viewing: Higher elevation sites offer exceptional stargazing. One camper at Mount Rogers reported "The night sky was one of the most memorable moments from our trip. I've never seen so many stars!" Sites away from light pollution create optimal viewing conditions.

Privacy levels: Campgrounds vary in seclusion. "This is a small campsite that I believe is on hunting land. You pass a sign going in toward it that states as much. There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing," describes a Walnut Flats visitor who found "5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole."

What you should know

Road accessibility: Access roads vary significantly in difficulty. The route to Scales Trailhead Basecamp is particularly challenging—"The road in is...'rocky'. High clearance 4wd needed," warns one camper who adds it's "not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous." Another notes it takes "probly 45 mins from the road to the campground."

Permit requirements: While most sites are free, Hidden Valley WMA requires documentation. Camping is "free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account)."

Weather exposure: Elevation affects camping conditions dramatically. A visitor to Whitetop explains, "If there's any clouds in the sky, you're literally just in a cloud of condensation. Everything is wet. Only camp here if there's clear sky's."

Tips for camping with families

Established sites: For families, more developed areas provide better facilities. "This is a wonderful spot. It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didn't smell," notes a visitor about Walnut Flats.

Water access considerations: Sites with water features require supervision. "We got lucky and parked right next to a swimming hole," reports a Whitetop visitor who adds that "the views later when the clouds cleared were spectacular."

Wildlife encounters: Many sites offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Variety of types of campsites. Amazing sights and wild ponies!" shares a Mount Rogers visitor. Scales Trailhead also offers wild pony sightings near salt licks.

Tips from RVers

Parking surfaces: RV accessibility varies by location. "Nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole," notes a visitor who stayed at Walnut Flats in an RV for nearly two weeks.

Road clearance needs: Vehicle ground clearance is critical for certain areas. "The road to this site is WILD, but doable! I'll leave photos of the worst spots to help you decide whether or not you should drive up to the top. We drove our 2WD Ford Maverick up the rocky road and it handled it just fine," shares a Hidden Valley WMA visitor who adds "The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites."

Campsite size limitations: Several areas have restrictions on rig size. "Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it," reports a Hidden Valley WMA camper.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tazewell, VA is Little Tumbling Creek with a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

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