Best Dispersed Camping near Bluefield, WV
Want to go dispersed camping near Bluefield? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Bluefield, WV (7)
1. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Sugar Grove, Virginia11 Reviews•20 Photos•274 SavesThis is a FREE national forest site along Hwy 58. There are quite a few of these sites within 3 miles of this site. Road side, but with the creek next to you it drowns out all road noise.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Trash
2. Walnut Flats
Staffordsville, Virginia2 Reviews•3 Photos•65 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
3. Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Prince, West Virginia12 Reviews•73 Photos•210 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
4. Little Tumbling Creek
Saltville, Virginia2 Reviews•2 Photos•11 SavesYou may disperse camp on Forest Service lands that do not have closures or restrictions. Dispersed camping is not allowed in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Drive on existing roads and, when car-camping, keep your campsite within 150 feet of a road.
If you can, pick a site that has been used before to minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite where you are going, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines:
Camp on bare soil, if possible, to avoid damaging plants. Do not camp within 200 feet of any water source. Avoid camping in the middle of a clearing or meadow; keep your campsite less visible so that other visitors can enjoy the views. Do not try to level or dig trenches in the ground at your campsite. Pick a tent site that is already level with good drainage.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
5. Scales Trailhead Basecamp
Troutdale, Virginia3 Reviews•8 Photos•17 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Toilets
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Bluefield
33 Reviews of 7 Bluefield Campgrounds
Mateo M.
Traveler
Scales Trailhead Basecamp
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
- RRhys R.
Guide
Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Very relaxing spot
Very nice spot, right by the river with plenty of spaces to hammock down by there. We were lucky and got one of the last spots, there’s only 11. Fire rings with grill, and bench at each site. The ground is great for tents, no rocks. If you’re planning on coming here, make sure and come early. Pit toilets also available.
- Harley G.Guide
Whitetop
Absolutely stunning!
Absolutely stunning views! I was a little sketched out going up as it was my first time driving up a mountain like that, but it really wasn’t bad. Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze.
- Betsy W.Guide
Little Tumbling Creek
Beautiful and peaceful
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.
Kel J.TravelerArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Free Camping & Beautiful Scenary
Pit toilets, but was nice to have something ++ FREE. Super cool river near by, great scenery.
Jay N.
ScoutScales Trailhead Basecamp
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.
Corda B.GuideArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Spots fill quickly
Stayed here for a few nights with 3 other people. We had 1 big tent, 2 vehicles and a few dogs and had plenty of room. The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in. Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store (like we did) so be prepared to have plenty of food and wood. Water access is not problem if you have a good filtration system. The view of the river is absolutely beautiful!!
- SSomadNomad M.Guide
Walnut Flats
Free
nice little free campground with about 5 sites with grill fire rings level gravel drive with tent pad and lantern pole, restrooms but I didn't use them well water pump for drinking water but didn't use it, quiet, few people in and out I stayed just shy of 2 weeks and 1 other came in a few days after me and stayed the whole time I was there and both of us worked on our rv without any disturbances. trail right through the campground and the Apalation trail just across the road
Jon M.ScoutScales 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.
Rachel S.
RangerArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Rare established free camping!
You can’t beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that’s also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn’t notice any mosquitoes in mid May. Peaceful and quiet!
Zach C.ScoutLittle Tumbling Creek
Secluded Place
Camp next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery.
Nathan G.ScoutWalnut Flats
Camping
Nice spot! Very quiet area
- mmatthew B.Scout
Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Really beautiful location
Army camp is nestled by the new river and has plenty of views of the mountains. None of us had cell phone reception, so if you’re looking for a tech free weekend then this is your spot. Saw plenty of small RV’s and campers at the spot. The road is pretty narrow so I wouldn’t suggest large RV’s go to this spot. Camp had a fire ring and hanging pole with enough room for four back packs on top. Parking spaces at the camp were big enough to accommodate 2-4 vehicles. Plenty of critters were roaming around with a bear spotted two nights in a row.
- JJordan B.Scout
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Incorrect listing, don’t come here!
This listing is for the main office for the forest. There are no camping sites near here. The sites are all located in the area listed as Washington and Jefferson camps sites down to the south west on HWY58, about a 45 minute drive toward Damascus VA.
- Kristi D.
LegendArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
You cant beat free!
We spent a night here on our way to Ohio. It has a small loop of campsites near the river. It is a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by. It's very doable. Campsites were mowed and it was a short walk to a really nice spot on the river. No electric/water, so plan to be ready to be off grid. Hard to complain about free!
- Michael W.Legend
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Not as depicted on DYRT
Went to site Dyrt said on pro trip selection. Read reviews looked good. See photos I give. It is the headquarters bldg. Free sites are from Damascus up mtn to bear creek campground
- CCharlesGuide
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Beautiful site by the creek
I stayed here two nights because it was so beautiful! 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. It is a pull-thru so it would be convenient for trailers, too.
Caroline F.GuideArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Quiet, nice free campground
FCFS. Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles. Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Spots are shaded. Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite. Very clean pit toilet bathroom. Road to access is single lane paved/gravel. Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds.
Knedd B.TravelerMount Rogers National Recreation Area
Great free sites!
Beautiful spot right by a babbling creek that will lull you to sleep.
- Matthew C.Scout
Whitetop
Dispersed Camping
Fantastic views. The wind is killer. Very little Verizon and AT&T signal. Gorgeous sunsets.
Jean C.LegendArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Free camping near, but not on the river
This is another of the free national park campgrounds in the New River Gorge, with sites that are more developed than many of the others. These are in a small open loop, largely level gravel parking and tent pads. They have picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles. No drinking water, so bring your own. No hookups. The river is nearby, but none of the sites are on the river. There’s an accessible site and also accessible trail to a bench along the river. There are latrines.
If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures.
If you can't find a site at one of the other campgrounds or you have a slightly larger rig, ths may be a better option for you. No cell service, so download your maps. The New River Gorge also offers rafting, and hiking options. Check out some of the mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, abuut 30 minutes away, and get up early to catch the sunrise from Grandview Point.
Clayton S.GuideWhitetop
Whitetop Mountain
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.
- LLisaTraveler
Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Army camp
Was okay, didn't end up staying due to limited spots available. Close to water, sites are wooded. There are 10 drive up sites and 6 walk in sites.
Tucker B.LegendArmy Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Nice free spot on the river!
It's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river.
Got lucky to find a site here after trying both Grandview Sandbar and Glade's Creek on the other side of the road.
No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!).
Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed.
Sheriff did arrive late the second night to visit my neighbors and lit up my tent pretty good.
Didn't ask too many questions this morning and I had to get up to pee anyway!
Alexandra T.GuideMount Rogers National Recreation Area
This spot is incredible.
Free spot, right next to a gorgeous creek. It was totally empty in March - we didn’t see a single soul. Got a beautiful campsite right on the creek. There’s lots of gorgeous spots on this stretch of road.
- HHannah L.Guide
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Currently closed
Currently closed as of January 25, 2021.
Marsha K.GuideMount Rogers National Recreation Area
Great campsites
The campsites are absolutely great in the park . We enjoyed every moment of being here . There is lots of water as well as wonderful nature spots .
Guide to Bluefield
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bluefield, West Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Stunning Views for Dispersed Campers
- Experience breathtaking vistas at Whitetop, where the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular, making it a prime location for stargazing.
- The area offers fantastic views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Be prepared for windy conditions, which can enhance the experience by adding a sense of adventure to your stay.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Bluefield, West Virginia
- For a truly remote experience, consider Scales Trailhead Basecamp, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature while being close to the Appalachian Trail.
- Bring plenty of water, as there are no water hookups available at the sites, but creeks and running water can be found nearby.
- The road to access this area can be rocky, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended to navigate the terrain comfortably.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
- Nestled by the river, Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers a relaxing spot with plenty of space for hammocks and tents.
- This area features established amenities like fire rings and pit toilets, making it a convenient choice for those seeking a balance between comfort and wilderness.
- Arrive early to secure one of the limited spots, as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bluefield, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bluefield, WV is Mount Rogers National Recreation Area with a 4-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bluefield, WV?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Bluefield, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.