George Washington National Forest provides the majority of free camping near Vinton, Virginia. The forest covers over 1 million acres across Virginia and West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 600 to over 4,000 feet. Dispersed campsites in this region are typically situated along forest roads, creek beds, and in proximity to hiking trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. Most sites require preparedness for primitive conditions.
What to do
Stream exploration: Multiple campsites along FR 812 offer direct creek access for wading and wildlife observation. "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," notes Mark M. about George Washington National Forest off 812.
Hiking nearby trails: The area connects to significant trail systems. "There is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!" shares Kelly K. about their experience at George Washington National Forest. For those seeking an extended adventure, Johns Spring Shelter provides access to McAfee Knob, where Sam M. notes, "Mcafee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the AT. This spot is really awesome. It can also just be done as a day hike."
Rock climbing: For climbers, the area offers bouldering opportunities. "Another cool thing about this area is that there's 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," explains Sam M. about the Johns Spring Shelter vicinity.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking isolation. Keith H. reports about Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, "Did not see another person," during their May stay. Similarly, Kenlei B. appreciated the serenity at George Washington National Forest off 812: "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."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature stone fire rings. "There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," notes Sawyer B. about their camping experience. David B. describes the Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite as having "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."
Creek proximity: Access to running water is a highlight for most campers. "Nice camping spot in George Washington NF. There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in. The spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring," describes Sarah and James H.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access requires navigating unpaved roads that can be challenging. SJ W. notes about Reservoir Road, "This was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it." Ryan L. adds, "It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81."
No cell service: Communication is limited in these areas. According to Jon N. at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Site availability: Competition for spots increases on weekends and during peak seasons. Michael C. advises, "Happened to pull up and snag this beauty. Had one other person later on drive by while I was scorching a fire." SJ W. found that "80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one."
Multiple site options: Beyond the main areas, additional campsites exist. Kelly K. explains, "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site & we got one for 3 nights."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For those hiking with children, structured options exist. Lucy P. describes Johns Spring Shelter as "Cute but very basic. As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source."
Water planning: With no reliable water sources at some sites, families need to bring sufficient supplies. Sam M. notes about Johns Spring Shelter, "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North."
Site selection: Groups should target larger sites. Jon N. describes one area as having "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."
Insect preparation: Be ready for insects in warmer months. SJ W. warns, "Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance considerations: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. SJ W. mentions having a "questionable" experience with their van on the dirt roads to Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite.
Limited amenities: RVers must be entirely self-contained. Derek D. simply describes the Reservoir Road area as "Primitive spot. Nice camping spots on the pedlar river in Amherst county."
Parking constraints: RV-suitable sites are limited. Jon N. notes the approach to one site includes "a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
