Dispersed camping near Troutville, Virginia concentrates primarily in the George Washington National Forest, where elevations range from 1,600 to 4,000 feet, creating varied terrain and camping conditions. The forest encompasses over one million acres with several disconnected segments throughout western Virginia. Camping opportunities tend to be more abundant on the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains where numerous forest roads provide access points.
What to do
Hiking local trails: Several trails connect with dispersed camping areas in George Washington National Forest. One camper at Piney Ridge Trailhead parking noted, "We ended up staying overnight at the trailhead parking lot. Room for several vehicles. Forested site combination of hardwoods and White pines, on top of the ridge with a view of the sky and a million stars."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes forest campsites ideal for astronomy. A camper at Peters Creek Spur mentioned the view included "the sky and a million stars," making it perfect for nighttime sky observation.
Stream exploration: Many sites feature small stream access. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, one visitor mentioned, "There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream," making it convenient to explore the water features.
Bouldering opportunities: Some areas near the campsites offer climbing possibilities. A visitor to Johns Spring Shelter area mentioned, "Some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many sites offer seclusion from neighboring campers. One visitor to FR 812 mentioned, "Unexpectedly found this site after planning on doing some primitive camping off the road. There's 2 sites that I saw on the road with pits. It was real quiet otherwise."
Fire features: Established fire rings are common at most sites. A camper at George Washington National Forest off 812 found "a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," offering enhanced cooking options.
Stream sounds: The proximity to running water enhances the camping experience. At Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite, a reviewer described "Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd."
Group camping potential: Some areas accommodate larger gatherings. One camper described a site off FR 812 as "a very wonderful group site" with "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires traveling unpaved roads. A camper at Reservoir Road noted, "This was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it," indicating preparation for longer drives on rough terrain.
Site availability timing: Weekends fill quickly at popular spots. One visitor to Sherwood Lake WV mentioned, "Around a dozen sites with Rock fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only... First come first serve."
Cellular connectivity: Service becomes increasingly limited as you travel into forest areas. A camper at one site mentioned, "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service," suggesting intermittent connectivity.
Site cleanliness concerns: Some visitors report issues with previous campers. One reviewer noted finding that "whoever used it last decided to walk a few yards down the trail and use the bathroom right in the middle of the path," highlighting the importance of proper sanitation practices.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for flatter areas away from steep drop-offs. A camper at Johns Spring Shelter mentioned, "The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat," which makes setup easier with children.
Water filtering necessity: Bring filtration equipment for creek water. One camper mentioned, "It was clean, creek for water if you have filter," indicating the need for water treatment equipment.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. A camper who visited in August noted, "it was very buggy," suggesting families should pack appropriate repellent.
Weather readiness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Consider sites that offer some tree coverage for shade and protection from sudden weather changes.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some forest roads present challenges for larger vehicles. One camper noted, "It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81" and another mentioned some areas have "rocky paths" requiring careful navigation.
RV size limitations: Smaller trailers and campervans fare better on forest roads. A reviewer mentioned, "Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare," indicating suitable spots for modest-sized vehicles but potential challenges for larger RVs.
Site positioning: The best RV-friendly dispersed sites are typically located closer to main forest roads rather than at the end of spurs. One camper mentioned finding "Large open space with several flat areas" that could accommodate vehicles.
