Best Dispersed Camping near Vesuvius, VA
Looking for dispersed camping near Vesuvius? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Vesuvius, Virginia (11)
2. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
11 Reviews•6 Photos•414 SavesWest Augusta, VirginiaBraley Pond Day Use Area is a very popular access to multiple trailheads including Ramsey's Draft Wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this universally accessible area perfect for family picnics, or plan to stay overnight in the adjacent dispersed camping site.
No dispersed camping allowed in picnic area.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Toilets
3. George Washington National Forest off 812
8 Reviews•33 Photos•258 SavesGlasgow, Virginia- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
2 Reviews•2 Photos•43 SavesBuena Vista, VirginiaThe best way to find out what areas are open to dispersed camping is to contact the nearest District Office to the area you wish to visit. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads and look for a clearing or a spot with a view. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. Dispersed camping is allowed in a one-mile perimeter away from campgrounds and 200 feet from any stream. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
5. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
2 Reviews•3 Photos•132 SavesGlasgow, VirginiaThe best way to find out what areas are open to dispersed camping is to contact the nearest District Office to the area you wish to visit. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads and look for a clearing or a spot with a view. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. Dispersed camping is allowed in a one-mile perimeter away from campgrounds and 200 feet from any stream. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area
4 Reviews•1 Photo•86 SavesWarm Springs, VirginiaHiking and fishing opportunities are abundant at Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area. Enjoy hiking trails that meander along the Jackson River, or break out that rod and reel as the trout stocked waters are popular amongst fly and traditional fishermen alike.
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Toilets
- Alcohol
7. Flagpole Knob
7 Reviews•38 Photos•249 SavesBrandywine, West VirginiaForest Road 85 travels 3.6 miles to the summit of Flagpole Knob, wobbling along the top of the Alleghany Mountains following the border between Virginia and West Virginia. This high elevation access route brings the wildlife watcher into habitats not encountered elsewhere on the North River Loop of the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail.
- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
10 Reviews•57 Photos•415 SavesBrandywine, West VirginiaThis colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound. Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping
1 Review•4 Photos•63 SavesWingina, VirginiaA camping authorization is required to camp on WMA’s. Authorization can be obtained at any license agent or at GOOUTDOORSVIRGINIA.COM. Primitive camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive nights when occupants are engaged in authorized activities (no more than 14 nights in any 28-day period). Camping is prohibited on or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, fishing lake or at other specific sites as posted or marked on WMA maps. All campers are required to store food in such a manner that it is not accessible by wildlife. Detailed camping regulations are found in 4VAC-15-20-155. It is unlawful to leave a campfire unattended. From February 15 to April 30 campfires are allowed only between the hours of 4:00PM and midnight. The James River WMA runs for just over a mile along the north shore of the James River, and encompasses more than a thousand acres of prolific habitat. Along the entry road, check the numerous dead snags for perched raptors along with the more numerous American crows. Red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks regularly occur, as do sharp-shinned hawks and American kestrels. Ospreys prefer the area next to the river. Just upstream from the boat landing parking area, lies a freshwater marsh managed for waterfowl. Anytime during the fall and winter, visitors can encounter northern pintail, blue-winged and green-winged teal and northern shovelers here, and during the summer wood ducks. Check the vegetation nearby for common yellowthroats, which can be very numerous during migration. The river itself is worth checking for waterfowl with diving ducks, especially mergansers, joining the resident wood ducks. The river also supports monstrous eastern river cooters, which are often seen sunning along the banks. Another reptile to be on the lookout for is the rough-green snake, which can be found almost anywhere in the area. Spring and summer are the best times to search for butterflies, with monarchs passing through on their way south in the fall. The colorful American rubyspots can be seen dancing along the river, while Halloween pennants play in the fields.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Vesuvius, Virginia
51 Reviews of 11 Vesuvius Campgrounds
- K
Kenlei B.
Traveler
George Washington National Forest off 812
Anniversary Trip!
We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet. Will definitely be back soon!
Jason L.
Guide
Spy Rock
Amazing!
This place is amazing for primitive camping. Good trails to hike and overland
Emil D.Traveler
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Nice area the camp spots can use some work
I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.
The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.
There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.
The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.
Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.
Mark M.GuideGeorge Washington National Forest off 812
Peaceful remote camping
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.
There's access to the App Trail on the road so you might see some hikers but it was real quiet otherwise. Pretty nice scenery (you're smack in the middle of the forest) so if you want to get out and away from people this is a great site.
Derek D.
Scout
Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
Primitive spot
Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county. Multiple spots along reservoir rd.
Jon C.
RangerSpy Rock
tent in the clouds
Slept at this camping spot passing through on the AT. Site just below the summit. Plenty of soft and level ground to set up your tent. Wish I was able to see the view at sunrise but it was cloudy all morning.
- Zach K.Traveler
James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping
Great, secluded location
The James River WMA is primarily used by hunters and fishermen throughout the year. However, one of the benefits of this place is that it is also open to dispersed campers! You simply need to purchase either a daily or annual access pass from the DWR website and then report which days you will be staying at the WMA--it's currently $23 for the annual pass.
After turning onto Midway Mills Lane from the northern end (route 626), there is a gravel access road about .5 miles down the road that is well-maintained. It almost immediately opens up into an open field where large rigs of any size can fit. There is another site further down the road, but it is smaller and primarily used for truck campers and tents.
This is where we stay any time I need to work in-office down in Lynchburg, VA. It is 20 minutes from the closest grocery store (Food Lion), liquor store, gas station, and propane supplier (Foster Fuels).
I had great T-Mobile service, but no ATT service--even with a powerful LTE antenna. I do not have Verizon so I cannot comment on their service.
This isn't a campsite for the best "scenery" or anything (though it is pretty in the morning), but it is quiet (you might sometimes hear dogs or gunshots from hunters who are near the water-fowl impoundment at the very end of the road by the river), secluded, and convenient. If you need a place in central Virginia to camp for (almost) free, this is it.
adrian F.Guide
Flagpole Knob
Perfect overlanding spot
We had some bad weather but still loved our trip. If you know it’s going to be windy don’t camp at the peak. There’s plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees. Very spaced out. Everyone you run into is nice and welcoming. Recommend vehicles with some ground clearance depending on which route you take up. Unbeatable views from the top.
Also there is raccoons. Tie up your trash and keep your shoes in your tent or vehicle. A few people lost shoes overnight while we were there and found them few hundred yards away.
- AAmy S.Scout
Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
Great family site
I brought my boys out to camp this past weekend, and this place was perfect for our first dispersed campsite experience. The day use area is close enough to use the bathroom (just an open pit toilet, nothing fancy). The pond is stocked with trout, so small groups of fisherpeople came and went. In spite of it being a weekend, we were one of two occupied sites. There are fire rings, firewood, and enough room to pull in, pitch a large tent, (ours was a 10-person) and hang hammocks. There are also trails along the pond’s edge. we didn’t explore too in depth, so there may be more hiking available. Though you can’t swim in the lake, we did wade the stream, which was cold and clear and beautiful. We’ll be back!
Rob U.GuideSpy Rock
Beautiful Hike and Amazing Views
The views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents. There are few amenities, but a few fire pits, etc. I've heard it can get pretty crowded, but it was not when I was there in October of 2015. Scramble up to the top for amazing sunsets and sunrises.
A little research ahead of time can help, as well. You can hike from Crabtree Falls, which is longer, but alternatively, you can park at the Fish Hatchery in Montebello and make a much shorter hike to Spy Rock, a quick (though admittedly steep) 1.5 miles. There seems to be an occasional debate about whether the trail that connects the fish hatchery road to the Spy Rock trail is open, as it passes through private property, but last I check it WAS.
- NNikki A.Scout
Flagpole Knob
flagpole knob camping
about 5 or so campsites, pretty private. good for a night
Adam G.TravelerSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Switzer is my go to spot coming from Harrisonburg!!
I’ve camped here probably 12 times over the past 2 years and I seem to always find another awesome spot every time I go. There is a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek. Switzer is a nice quiet place and perfect for big or small groups that never disappoints. It’s also empty on weeknights. Beautiful sunrises from the dam.
David B.GuideFlagpole Knob
If you want a great view
So to get a great view you need to go all the way up to the knob. There are primitive campsites all along the trails
Amber A.RangerBraley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
FREE dispersed camping near wilderness
This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system. Site itself is mostly good for fishing but tons of other good hiking in the area.
Jim M.Guide
Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area
Great "out of the way" spot
Great camp site!! I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice. Quiet spot with a nice grassy level area. will definitely stay here again when I get back up this way.
- adrian F.Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Fantastic primitive get away
Great spot to get away. Super peaceful and relaxing. Make sure to secure food trash. Pack in what you pack out and more if possible. We found lots of trash on the trails and at campsites. There’s nothing there so plan ahead for water and bathroom use.
Cierra A.RangerBraley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
Prepare yourself for a primitive camping experience.
In terms of free sites, i havent had trouble dealing with the grounds being busy like i have in WV. I've only visited here twice. We had an issue with a tick or two, but otherwise it was comfortable and well placed primitive spot.
Jon N.Guide
Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
A wonderful group site tucked back a couple miles from 501
I was originally looking for a different camp site earlier on the road when I stumbled upon this one. It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out. There is 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.
No cell service(T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service.
Katrina L.ScoutGeorge Washington National Forest off 812
Labor day weekend
August 31, 2024, Labor Day weekend camping trip. Spent a night here camping with my younger sister. She could only do one night, as she lives up north and had to be back up by Monday to go back to work on Tuesday. We arrived around 10:30am, we got everything set up before we ventured out. Very nice spot we found, very quiet except for nature. Best sounds ever. We visited the Natural bridge, which was about 20 minutes or so from the camp site. It did some light rain from around 8p til sometime after midnight, but stayed comfy and dry.
Cara P.TravelerBraley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
right next to running water!
we went on a Tuesday night and we were the only people there and got the best spot right next to the creek. it’s free and you are allowed to camp unknown. they already had large logs for fire prepared and the site was clean, we love this spot and will definitely be coming back. there’s bathrooms in the picnic area and it’s easy to access.
- CConnor W.Scout
Switzer Lake
Need AWD and some ground clearance
Good little spot, used to go here a lot in college, the drive in can be done by a sedan but I’d definitely recommend AWD/4WD. Great views of the lake surround by pines, free access, drive through the stream to get to a few popular spots. Like most places, please leave it better than you found it, trash has been an issue
- LLauren M.Scout
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Beautiful area!
I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!
Sam M.
LegendSpy Rock
fun times in the cold
So I wouldn't even necessarily call this place a campground, more like a spot to camp. Spy Rock is this awesome hike about an hour away from Charlottesville, Va. It is a great hike with a small rock scramble at the top for an extra bit of fun. Not only that, but the top has almost 360 degree views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Basically, at the top before you do the rock scramble, there is a little clearing meant for camping. Sure you have to cart all of your crap to the top with you, but TOTALLY worth it once you catch that sunrise from the top of the mountain. Plus the clearing is an awesome spot to camp. Flat, open, space for a fire. What more could you ask for?
This is one of my favorite hikes in the Shenandoah Valley.
Also, as long as you're close, might as well hit up Charlottesville. I went to college at the university of virginia, so I know the area well. There is no better city than cville. Amazing food, concerts, great hiking, sports, history, and beautiful scenery. If you're looking for something to do in the area, go visit Monticello (TJ's house), go to a winery, see UVA's campus and take a historical tour. There are so many options. Not to mention the Sky Line Drive which is only a short drive away.
Do this hike, stay on the mountain, and go visit cville. I promise you won't regret it.
Emily T.RangerSpy Rock
Not easy but well worth it
I camped here 3 times, the hike up is brutal but the top is absolutely worth it. This most recent time camping we discovered that apparently TECHNICALLY camping isn’t allowed anymore, but the fire pit and tent areas still seem in use and I really doubt someone would hike up there to tell you to leave. The trailhead is tricky to find if you don’t already know where it is, and there’s no service until you get up to the top. It’s literally just the top of a mountain, nothing but what you carry up with you.
SJ W.GuideReservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
Very long road to get there
Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close which when I drive down a really long dirt road that is questionable for my van, i want it to be private and this was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it.
- DDavid B.Scout
Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
Great Option
Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream.
Ryan L.GuideGeorge Washington National Forest off 812
Secluded
I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. You loose cell service a couple miles from the site. The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping. Fire ring and river are right there, no toilets. I didn’t see anyone else near this site when I stayed.
Guide to Vesuvius
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Vesuvius, Virginia, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of options, campers can enjoy serene landscapes, hiking trails, and the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
Scenic Creekside Retreats for Dispersed Campers
- Experience the peaceful ambiance of George Washington National Forest off 812, where you can unwind by the creek and enjoy the sounds of nature.
- This location offers multiple road sites suitable for various vehicles, making it easy to find a perfect spot to set up camp.
- Campers have noted the quiet atmosphere, even with occasional passing cars, ensuring a relaxing getaway.
Hiking Adventures While Free Camping Near Vesuvius
- The Spy Rock area is perfect for those seeking a challenging hike with rewarding views at the summit, making the trek worthwhile.
- This site is known for its primitive camping experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the thrill of hiking.
- With trails leading to stunning vistas, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine camping with adventure.
Nature Exploration at Braley Pond for Dispersed Campers
- The Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area offers ample space for setting up tents and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
- Campers can explore the pond area, which is great for fishing and wildlife observation, providing a unique outdoor experience.
- Although some areas may require cleanup, the overall environment is well-maintained, making it a great choice for a night under the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Vesuvius, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Vesuvius, VA is Spy Rock with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Vesuvius, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Vesuvius, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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