Tent camping near Wise, Virginia offers primitive camping options in the Jefferson National Forest and surrounding state parks. Located in the Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet, the area experiences cool nights even in summer with average temperature drops of 15-20 degrees after sunset. Most sites require campers to pack in their own water and practice Leave No Trace principles due to limited facilities.
What to do
Kayaking at Bark Camp Lake: The entrance to Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost is directly across from Jefferson National Forest where visitors can access water recreation. "We were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area," reports Noah O.
Fishing at stocked lakes: The small lake at Kingdom Come State Park Campground is regularly stocked with trout, bass, bluegill and sunfish. According to Brian B., "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites."
Rock climbing and vista hiking: Several challenging trail options exist near the camping areas with unique geological features. Brian B. describes, "Our favorite is the Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains."
What campers like
Secluded camping experience: Most primitive tent sites in the area offer significant privacy and solitude. Paul H. notes about Kingdom Come, "I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper. It is very quiet and remote. The views from the outlooks at the top of the road are amazing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bear sightings from safe distances are common at several area campgrounds. One camper at Kingdom Come State Park reports, "I saw more bears while at this park then any other time. But it was never scary because they were always far away."
Free firewood service: Unlike many camping areas that charge for wood, some local parks provide complimentary firewood. "Everyday a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping," notes Brian B. about the Kingdom Come sites.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: All campgrounds in the region require proper food storage and clean campsites. Jess B. explains, "We were really careful to keep our campsite very clean as to not attract the bears closer." Sites at Misfit Farmz Campground provide similar precautions for wildlife management.
Limited connectivity: Most camping areas have no cell service or internet access. As Wyman M. notes about the Kingdom Come area, "Great area, no service or wifi," making these sites ideal for disconnecting but requiring advance planning.
Road accessibility challenges: Some forest roads leading to campgrounds may close seasonally or without notice. One camper reported about High Knob Campground, "Road closed unfortunately. Not information posted." Always check with ranger stations for current road conditions before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with bathroom access: For families with children, look for campgrounds with toilet facilities. Sarah from Kingdom Come State Park notes, "The nearby shelter house provides restrooms and trash cans," which makes primitive camping more manageable with children.
Pack extra water containers: With limited drinking water access at most sites, families need to bring sufficient water. Grant M. cautions when visiting Bellebrook Acres, "No dump station, and the road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine."
Reserve early for adjacent sites: To accommodate larger family groups, contact campground hosts directly. At Misfit Farmz, the owner explains, "We can help with large parties having private weddings and parties. We have the needed connections," allowing families to reserve multiple adjacent sites.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations critical: Most primitive camping areas near Wise can only accommodate small trailers or vans. Grant M. advises, "6 sites that are tent-centric but doable with a small trailer," when describing Kingdom Come's capacity for RVs.
No hookup availability: Nearly all tent camping areas lack traditional RV amenities. Small trailer campers should prepare for dry camping with no electric, water or sewer connections at most sites around Wise.
