Dispersed camping near Baker, West Virginia offers primitive camping opportunities across several designated areas within George Washington National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions and temperatures that can drop significantly at night even in summer months. Most primitive campsites require campers to provide their own water sources as natural springs and creeks can be unreliable, especially during late summer.
What to do
Trail exploration: Wolf Gap Recreation Area: The 9 campsites serve as starting points for several trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail. "The campground has vaulted toilet and communal garbage receptical. There is a large day use area. There are several trails that intersect with the campsite and day hikers are a common site," notes Kevin C.
Creek activities: South Fork Shenandoah River: Fishing and swimming opportunities abound at this river access point. "Our site was amazing! 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," reports Justine I.
Wildlife viewing: Dolly Sods Backcountry: The unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife watching opportunities. "The amount of brightly colored fungi, snakes, crayfish and salamanders were astonishing. So if you move too quickly, you miss them," explains Dave V., highlighting the importance of slow, careful observation.
What campers like
Site seclusion: Wolf Gap Recreation Area: The thoughtful layout provides privacy despite proximity to other sites. "The campsite itself is beautifully wooded. Each campsite is mostly secluded from the rest of the park," writes Kevin C., emphasizing the natural separation between campsites.
Terrain variety: Dolly Sods Backcountry: The landscape transforms dramatically across short distances. "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana," shares Ben.
Accessibility: Squirrel Hollow Road Camping: Many sites can accommodate standard vehicles without specialized equipment. "Large campsites and relatively quite. We took two vehicles and found several suitable sites. Traffic was light with one pickup overnight and a small convoy of motorcycles the next morning," reports Jon D.
What you should know
Road conditions: Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed: Forest roads can deteriorate rapidly, especially after rain. "Quite a few miles down Squirrel Gap Rd. There is another sunnier sight a little before this one. But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep," warns Dexter V.
Weather variability: Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, requiring comprehensive gear. "We needed every layer we brought, including winter hats, puffy jackets, and gloves. During the 6 days we were in the backcountry, we experienced everything from warm summer-like weather to chilly winter winds, both day and night," shares a backpacker at Shenandoah National Park.
Sanitation concerns: Limited facilities mean diligent waste management is essential. "Do practice 'leave no trace.' The heavy summer and weekend use by careless and selfish hikers or backcountry partiers...has left the woods adjacent to Reds Creek camping sites littered with toilet paper...dig your cat hole and bury your 'goods!'" advises Dave V. at Dolly Sods Backcountry.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Little Fort Campground: Established sites provide useful amenities for family camping. "Great established free campground! We got the last spot around 7pm. Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform. We used one of the sign in slips but many of the other campers did not. Bathrooms and beer proof trash was provided. Nice trails/creek behind site," shares Sawyer B.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience unexpected night sounds that might disturb light sleepers. "I could hear some cars drive by and some dogs barking while I was trying to sleep, which was a bit disruptive," mentions Lindsay C. about Little Fort Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Animal encounters require proper food storage and camp management. "Bear country so bring a cannister or hang your food. But 100% worth the trip," advises Megan B. about primitive camping at Dolly Sods.
Tips from RVers
Parking challenges: South Fork Shenandoah River: Limited spaces mean early arrival is essential for RV sites. "The site at the end of the road is beautiful. We stayed right at the end of the road, since we have a 30 foot RV, but there are sites you can walk to all the way down the river. I saw one other site before ours," explains Justine I.
Leveling requirements: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven parking areas. "Many of the car parking pads are not level. But the tent pads appear to be," notes VanRumschpringa V. at Wolf Gap Recreation Area, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks.
Road access limitations: Some access roads cannot accommodate larger rigs or trailers. "The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow," advises Justine I. about South Fork Shenandoah River, indicating careful driving is necessary on unpaved access roads.
