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Best Dispersed Camping in Virginia

132 Reviews

Virginia's George Washington National Forest offers numerous free dispersed camping spots, particularly along Forest Service Road 812 where multiple creekside sites feature established fire rings. These primitive areas require no reservations or permits and accommodate both drive-in and walk-in camping. A camper wrote, "There are 4-5 additional sites down the road, all lovely and creekside with fire pits."

Many Virginia dispersed sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. Flagpole Knob and Whitetop Mountain sites provide scenic mountain views but demand careful navigation. A review mentioned, "The road was a bumpy rock terrain so some clearance is a must." Shenandoah National Park allows backcountry camping but requires permits and prohibits pets and alcohol, unlike most other Virginia dispersed sites which typically allow both. Facilities are minimal across these locations—Braley Pond and Little Fort Campground offer vault toilets, but most areas have no drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring visitors to pack out all waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites in Virginia (35)

    1. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    15 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    "Night 1: Overall Run Camp: This is the third established site along the trail downhill from Overall Run Falls, near the junction of the Overall Run Trail and the Tuscarosa Trail."

    "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!"

    2. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    13 Reviews
    West Augusta, VA
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system."

    "Car could be parked right next to us on site 2. Next to a creek, so good sounds and cool environment 3. Some walking trails 4."

    3. George Washington National Forest off 812

    13 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    Website

    "Unexpectedly found this site after planning on doing some primitive camping off the road. There's 2 sites that I saw on the road with pits."

    "You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet. Will definitely be back soon!"

    4. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Sugar Grove, VA
    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."

    5. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Brandywine, WV
    Website

    "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road."

    "Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot."

    6. Flagpole Knob

    8 Reviews
    Brandywine, WV
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "They Said , you need a high clearance vehicle, I cleared my throat. They said, you need 4 wheel drive, I SAID "ILL SEND YOU PICTURES!!!""

    "There’s plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees. Very spaced out. Everyone you run into is nice and welcoming."

    7. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    7 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    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."

    8. Little Fort Campground

    6 Reviews
    Woodstock, VA

    "The campsites have a fire ring, a picnic table, and a flat area to pitch a tent. They have parking spots next to them. There are permanent structure Vault toilets/ out houses."

    "Love staying here for just a night couple small trails around the area not any great views but it is very peaceful in the woods."

    9. Whitetop

    6 Reviews
    Whitetop, VA

    "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"

    10. South Fork Shenandoah River

    6 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA

    "The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours."

    "Plenty of firewood from downed trees, sites are dirt which makes staking down easy, but I can imagine it would be muddy if it rains."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Virginia

103 Photos of 35 Virginia Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Virginia

132 Reviews of 35 Virginia Campgrounds

  • Mike C.
    Oct. 18, 2020

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Primitive Fall Fun

    Duration of Stay: Oct 16-18, 2020 Average Daily Temp: 61 Average Evening Temp: 30 On Site Parking: ✅ Potable Water: 🚱 Restrooms: 🚫 Firewood: 🚫 Cell Service: 📵 4x4: ✅ Wildlife and Fishing: ✅

    Amazing place with tons of very primitive spots and privacy. Directions on website are pretty accurate.

    Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you.

    Down the road you will find many spots on your left and your right to tuck back in and call it "home" for a couple days.

    If you travel back to U.S. 33 and drive 9.1 miles West you will find the Brandywine General Store on your left. They have kiln dried firewood, ice, bait, and supplies you may have forgot at home.

    This first come first served location is ideal for off road adventures. Make sure your rig is equipped, this ain't for rookies!

    Would have given this spot a 5 Star if some of the locals understood quiet hours after 10pm and slept past 5am. Be advised, it can get loud at some of the larger sites. Go deeper into the woods if you have the equipment.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 24, 2018

    Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    FREE roadside camping!

    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.

    Sites are first come, first served, have no picnic table or toilet, but all seem to have an established fire ring and access to the creek for water. Bring your water filter and portable potty!

    Within 3 miles of these spots along the creek, you will find the famous and gorgeous Virginia Creeper Trail, the Whitetop Laurel Creek, and the Appalachian Trail. So bring your bikes, fishing poles, kayaks, and hiking boots for a full week of adventure. We couldn’t get enough of this gorgeous area and hit the early spring weather spot on for some fun in the sun!

    The closest town is Damascus which are filled with companies that will load your bikes on a trailer and haul you and your bike to Whitetop Mountain where you can hop on the Virginia Creeper Trail for 17 miles of easy downhill coasting (or 34 miles if you choose to go all the way to Abingdon). Or, for more of a workout, you can hop on the trail at various access points and ride uphill and coast down. For whitewater fun, consult the American Whitewater website for the runnable area/range of the Whitetop Laurel Creek.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2020

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Creekside Camping

    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. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant.  The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek.

    Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace! 

    Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease. We stayed at this camp for 3 weeks during the pandemic shutdown and it was a perfect place to ride out this crazy storm and decompress from some anxiety. 

    The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.

  • Amber A.
    Aug. 1, 2016

    Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    FREE dispersed camping near wilderness

    This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system. Site itself is mostly good for fishing but tons of other good hiking in the area.

  • 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.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful area!

    I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 11, 2023

    Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)

    Not bad!

    Basic parking spot in quite location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It’s 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving. No amenities but nice camping experience and you can purchase $4 daily pass or if Virginia residents free 14 days camping complementary as well with any fishing license or hunting license if you have. I will come back!

  • Glennie V.
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

    First time trying dispersed-camping and was super excited originally! We followed the coordinations and pulled into an off-road spot. Initially we felt pretty comfortable riding through the national park. However when we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car: It was a man and female. They appeared to be smoking meth and had a distinctive smell coming from their truck. They were making incoherent noises and could barely hold their heads up. They then pulled out a gun and started shooting at the signs near the road. Needless to say we quickly packed our gear and left. It was definitely scary and not the best encounter for first time dispersed camping. Thankfully I was with my partner and felt safe with him. If I was alone, I'm unsure how safe I would've felt, as a traveling/camping solo-female. We were able to find another dispersed campground down the road about 15-20 mins alongside the road. We also saw more people car-camping and doing the same: so overall we felt better about the situation. However, I'm not sure if I'd recommend this spot or go back again: Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!

  • Jon M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2024

    Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    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.

Guide to Virginia

Virginia offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the freedom and adventure of dispersed camping. With stunning landscapes and a variety of amenities, campers can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

  • Experience the beauty of nature at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites, where you can enjoy hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • This area allows campfires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars, although be sure to bring your own firewood.
  • With no fees and a requirement for permits, this spot is ideal for budget-conscious adventurers looking for a peaceful retreat.

Top activities while free camping in Virginia

Unique features of Virginia's dispersed camping spots

  • Many sites, like Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping, allow pets, making it easy to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
  • Campers at George Washington National Forest off 812 can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nearby creeks while being surrounded by nature.
  • The remote setting of Spy Rock provides a unique camping experience with minimal amenities, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy primitive camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Virginia?

Virginia offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities across its national forests and public lands. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests provide multiple options, including sites along Bear Creek near the intersection of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites offer primitive camping with access to hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling. Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) also permit dispersed camping, with Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area offering waterside spots with a $4 daily pass (free for Virginia residents for up to 14 days). These areas typically have no amenities, so come prepared with water treatment systems and proper waste disposal methods.

What's the difference between boondocking and dispersed camping in Virginia?

In Virginia, the terms "boondocking" and "dispersed camping" have subtle differences but are often used interchangeably. Boondocking typically refers to RV camping without hookups in undeveloped areas, while dispersed camping encompasses any primitive camping in undeveloped locations regardless of setup. Sites like Eagle Nest Lookout in Chickahominy WMA exemplify dispersed camping with no established facilities along the James River. Flagpole Knob represents boondocking requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Both involve self-sufficiency - bringing your own water, managing waste, and leaving no trace. Some areas like Wildlife Management Areas may have specific permit requirements, while National Forest lands generally allow free camping for up to 14 days.

What are the rules for dispersed camping in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?

In George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, dispersed camping follows specific regulations. Camping is permitted for up to 14 consecutive days in one location and limited to 21 days total within a 30-day period. Campsites must be at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers first-come, first-served sites along creeks with no facilities. Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site requires a 4-mile hike to access with limited water sources. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, and you must use existing fire rings when available. Pack out all trash and waste. Some areas may require high-clearance vehicles or 4WD for access, especially at locations like Scales Trailhead Basecamp.

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