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Best Dispersed Camping near Waterford, VA

21 Reviews

Shenandoah National Park offers several dispersed camping options near Waterford, Virginia, with backcountry permits required for most sites. Campers can access primitive sites through various entry points, with many requiring hikes of 1-4 miles. The Veach Gap site in George Washington National Forest stands out with a 4-mile uphill trek to ridge-top camping with panoramic views of the Shenandoah River. One camper noted, "Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site."

Little Fort Campground provides a more accessible dispersed camping experience with drive-in access, though roads can be challenging. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables with nearby vault toilets but no running water. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers free camping with both drive-in and walk-in options, plus basic amenities like toilets and trash collection. Bears are active throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. Most dispersed sites prohibit fires or have seasonal restrictions, with varying cell service depending on elevation. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring adequate preparation for temperature fluctuations even during spring months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Waterford, Virginia (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Waterford, VA

24 Photos of 6 Waterford Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Waterford, VA

21 Reviews of 6 Waterford 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!

  • 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.

  • Stephanie R.
    Jun. 14, 2018

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    Backcountry camping

    These sites are backcountry meaning they are not established sites. You just wander down the trail and pick your favorite spot with consideration to not disturbing as much nature as possibe. I got to sleep listening to a river all night. It is also convenient since most places are not far from the trails.

Guide to Waterford

Dispersed camping near Waterford, Virginia, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping away from traditional sites. With stunning landscapes and a variety of options, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Waterford, Virginia

Dispersed campers should check out Shenandoah National Park

  • The Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites provide access to breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails, making it a prime spot for outdoor adventures.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see deer and other animals in their natural habitat while camping in this scenic area.
  • Be prepared for a drive through hilly terrain to reach these dispersed sites, but the stunning landscapes make the journey worthwhile.

Veach Gap - A hidden gem for dispersed campers

  • The Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site offers incredible views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains, rewarding those who make the 4-mile hike to the site.
  • This area is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds, as it provides a more secluded camping experience with minimal foot traffic.
  • Remember to bring enough water, as there are limited sources along the trail, ensuring a comfortable stay at this picturesque location.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Waterford, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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