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Map showing campground location near Troutdale, Virginia
Camper submitted image from Scales Trailhead BasecampView 8 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Troutdale, Virginia

Scales Trailhead Basecamp

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Hikers and equestrian riders have direct Appalachian Trail access from Scales Trailhead Basecamp, a dispersed site set within Jefferson National Forest outside Troutdale, Virginia. The road in is rocky and long, roughly 45 minutes from the paved road, and reviewers consistently recommend high-clearance vehicles. No running water is available at the sites, though creeks run nearby. Pit toilets are on-site, fire pits are established, and the surrounding area provides wood, though damp conditions in fall may require a fire starter. Wild ponies and a nearby salt lick draw wildlife viewers. Fox Creek Horse Camp is a short distance northwest for campers who want developed equestrian facilities.

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Map & DirectionsScales Trailhead Basecamp is located in Virginia near Troutdale

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

36.66998535 N
81.48690167 W

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Connectivity

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    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/8/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/8/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Scales Trailhead Basecamp

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5 Stars

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the well-maintained campground with scenic AT location and good facilities. Access requires high clearance vehicle for rocky 45-minute approach road. Beautiful views and wild ponies are frequent highlights.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Nov. 5, 2024

Fun, adventure, friendship

My partner and I took our dog on a quick impromptu weekend trip, we drove about 2 hours. 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. The campground was well kept, well placed, not to mention the next morning part of the crew that maintains the area helped us fix our flat. Some of the other campers introduced themselves and were extremely friendly and helpful. Some had been camping there for 40yrs. The fire pits are well built and there is plenty of kindling and tinder to find right off the trails. If you’re comping at night time and want a fire bring a starter log. This time of year the wood was a little damp as we arrived late. Other than that bring plenty of water there are creeks and running water around but no running water at the sites, if you’re a must have shower person bring a shower bag. The sights were magical and the salt lick for the ponies wasn’t far so if you’re looking for a weekend getaway with great sites, a little adventure and a whole lot of beauty this campground is for you. This will definitely become a frequent for my partner and I

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Scales Trailhead Basecamp by Mateo M., November 5, 2024
  • friendly ponies
  • Review photo of Scales Trailhead Basecamp by Mateo M., November 5, 2024
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2024

Isolated & wonderful!

We've been going to Scales for several years now, & it's one of the few places we keep revisiting! 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! It's right on the AT, so there are lots of through hikers that you'll see stop in for a night. That also means that there's lots of great hiking options! Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!

Additionally, there are a lot of fire pits& there are pit toilets.

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed May. 31, 2024

Serious off road capability needed

The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick.

Month of VisitAugust
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What do Scales Campground looks like and are there photos available?

Scales Trailhead Basecamp is a picturesque open-field campground located in a scenic mountain setting. The campground features an expansive grassy area where campers can set up tents with beautiful surrounding views. It's a rustic camping experience with plenty of space between sites. Photos of the campground are available on The Dyrt website and through official Grayson Highlands State Park resources. The images showcase the natural beauty of the area, including the grassy camping areas and nearby mountain landscapes that make this location popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

Where is Scales Campground located in Virginia?

Scales Trailhead Basecamp is located in the Grayson Highlands area of Virginia. It's accessible via a rocky mountain road that takes approximately 45 minutes to travel from the main road to the campground. The campground serves as a base for exploring the surrounding highland wilderness, including trails that connect to the wider Grayson Highlands State Park area. Its remote mountain setting requires some effort to reach but rewards visitors with stunning highland scenery.

What facilities and amenities are available at Scales Campground?

Scales Trailhead Basecamp offers a primitive camping experience with minimal facilities. The campground features basic sites suitable for tent camping in an open field setting. There are no electrical hookups, running water, or modern bathroom facilities available. Campers should come fully prepared with all necessary supplies, including water and waste disposal options. The campground's rustic nature is part of its appeal, offering an authentic backcountry experience. High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for access, as the road in is notably rocky and challenging. Alternatively, the site is also accessible by horseback, which many visitors prefer.

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