Best Dispersed Camping near Willis, VA

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Washington and Jefferson National Forest near Willis, Virginia, with several free primitive sites located along forest roads and creek beds. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area provides multiple dispersed camping zones, particularly along Bear Creek and in the vicinity of Whitetop Mountain. Hidden Valley Wildlife Management Area also permits dispersed camping with proper permits. These public lands feature primitive sites with no designated facilities, allowing campers to experience backcountry conditions while following leave-no-trace principles.

Access to many dispersed sites requires careful navigation of unpaved forest roads. The route to Scales Trailhead Basecamp demands high-clearance 4WD vehicles due to rocky terrain, with one review noting it's "a 45-minute drive from the road to the campground" with a "rocky road in." Hidden Valley WMA requires a Virginia Wildlife Access permit with camping authorization, allowing stays up to 14 days. Most sites lack amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, or established restrooms, though some areas like Hidden Valley provide portable toilets and trash receptacles.

The region's dispersed camping areas provide varied experiences from mountain views to creekside settings. Sites along creeks offer natural water sources for filtering and pleasant ambient sounds. "The sound of the creek seemed to drown out all road noise," noted one camper at Mount Rogers. Whitetop Mountain provides spectacular vistas but comes with challenges: "The wind is killer. Very little Verizon and AT&T signal. Gorgeous sunsets." Many areas have established fire rings, though campers should bring their own firewood or collect dead wood where permitted. Several reviews mention issues with trash left by previous campers, emphasizing the importance of proper waste disposal. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites, particularly in valley locations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Willis, Virginia (9)

    1. Hidden Valley WMA

    4 Reviews
    Willis, VA
    2 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."

    2. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    6 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    27 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."

    3. Little Tumbling Creek

    3 Reviews
    Saltville, VA
    24 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."

    4. Whitetop

    6 Reviews
    Whitetop, VA
    32 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. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Sugar Grove, VA
    39 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."

    6. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    37 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."

    7. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

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Showing results 1-9 of 9 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Willis, VA

36 Reviews of 9 Willis Campgrounds



Guide to Willis

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Willis, Virginia, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next adventure.

Scenic Waterfalls for Nature Enthusiasts

  • Experience the breathtaking views at Little Tumbling Creek, where you can hike to stunning waterfalls and enjoy fishing along the creek.
  • This area offers several flat spots for tent or van camping, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • The peaceful ambiance created by the gentle sounds of the creek enhances the overall camping experience, perfect for relaxation.

Hiking Trails and Wildlife Encounters

  • The Scales Trailhead Basecamp is an excellent starting point for hiking adventures, with trails that lead to beautiful views and opportunities to see wild ponies.
  • This location is known for its friendly atmosphere, where fellow campers often share stories and tips, enhancing the sense of community.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a rocky drive to reach this secluded spot, but the stunning scenery and hiking options make it worthwhile.

Fishing and Relaxation by the Water

  • At Hidden Valley WMA, you can enjoy fishing right by the water's edge, although camping is not allowed lakeside.
  • This area is well-equipped with fire rings and bear bins, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
  • The tranquility of the surroundings makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and connect with nature while enjoying some fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Willis, VA is Hidden Valley WMA with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Willis, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.