John H.
Traveler
TravelerFlagpole Knob
Great place if you want to off road a little and have an amazing view to wake up and go to sleepp too. Would definitely do this again!
Dispersed Camping near Davis, WV
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Dispersed camping around Davis, West Virginia centers primarily within Monongahela National Forest, where primitive sites exist along forest roads and near water features. Free camping areas include Canaan Loop Road, Dolly Sods Backcountry, Lower Glady, and Gandy Creek dispersed camping zones. These sites typically feature minimal development, with most offering fire rings but lacking amenities such as running water, restrooms, or trash service. Several sites provide access to streams and rivers, creating natural boundaries between campsites and offering water filtration opportunities.
Access routes to dispersed camping areas vary significantly in quality and difficulty. Many locations require navigation on dirt or gravel roads with potholes, sharp turns, and occasional mud that may challenge low-clearance vehicles. Canaan Loop Road contains multiple pull-off sites visible from the road with some hidden spots accessible by short walks. Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days without permits or reservations. Fire regulations vary by season and location, with some sites allowing campfires in established rings while others prohibit them entirely. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent throughout most dispersed camping regions, particularly in valley areas.
The terrain around Davis provides unique camping experiences characterized by mountain vistas, creek-side sites, and diverse ecosystems. Dolly Sods Backcountry presents wilderness conditions similar to Canadian tundra, with variable weather patterns and extensive trail networks. "Depending on the access point, conditions range from muddy bogs to rocky trails that require careful navigation," noted one experienced backpacker. Sites along Gandy Creek offer greater privacy with campsites spaced well apart. As one camper observed, "Although our neighbors were across the river from us, the sound of the river blocked out any noise they had made." Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting various mushroom species, salamanders, and bird activity throughout the region.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Davis (28)
1. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
"This swath of land, sandwiched between two state parks(Canaan Valley State Park to the south& Blackwater Falls State Park to the north) is managed by the US Forest Service."
"road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that"
2. Dolly Sods Backcountry
"Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, part of the Monongahela National Forest, offers something for every hiker, backpacker, camper."
"Dolly Sods is a wilderness area within the great Monongahela National Forest. I backpacked here in early March a few years ago. Definitely be prepared for high winds and rain."
3. Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
"So this is quite large, I'm guessing at least 25 to 35 campsites along a 4-ish mile long dirt road that deadends. It is dispersed camping, free."
"Had direct access to water for washing and other needs. However I read in a brochure to not drink the water without boiling for 3 minutes because the area has giardia."
4. Gladwin Dispersed Camping
"Decided to try it even though other review said private property- and seems they were correct but incorrect. Initially you do come to private land with several campsites and campers present."
"I camped at the site closest to the river— right next to it in fact! And it was quite large."
5. Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping
"The main reason I'm reluctant to give it five stars(I gave it 4) is because nearly all of its many campsites cannot be entered by vehicle; you have to park next to the dirt road that runs north-south through"
"You get to them by a dirt road, park, and then the campsites are a little ways in. No amenities other than cleared level ground and a spot for the campfire."
6. Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed
"Brushy Ridge Road is Forest Service Road 75 and is in decent condition."
7. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
"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."
8. Little River Dispersed Campsites
"About 7+ miles in from the town of Durbin on a dirt road (not sure how that would go in an RV but easy in a small vehicle). Beautiful dispersed camping near a creek in dense, lush forest."
"This is the Little River Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest, WV. We drove in from the south, through Durbin, which is almost 7 miles on a pothole ridden dirt road."
9. Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
"I do a lot of dispersed camping, and have done several dispersed camping sites in West Virginia recently. Mower Basin is, hands down, my favorite one so far."
"I chose for this trip to pay a visit to the Monongahela Nation Forest in West Virginia. I plan on dispersed camp in the Mower Basin for seven days. "
10. Flagpole Knob
"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!!!""
"This site requires a 4x4 vehicle with clearance. The trail leading to and from camp can be a bit tricky for some."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 26 min from Morgantown, WV
- 1 hr 37 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 49 min from Harrisonburg, VA
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Davis, WV
134 Photos of 28 Davis Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
Dolly Sods Backcountry
Gladwin Dispersed Camping
Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping
Little River Dispersed Campsites
Gaudineer Knob camp sites
Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area
Monongahela National Forest Dispersed Site
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227
Wolf Gap Recreation Area
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Davis, WV
113 Reviews of 28 Davis Campgrounds
kacee W.TravelerDispersed camping at Mower Basin
Absolutely gorgeous
There are 25 or so established sights at Mower Basin and you're bound to find one with an incredible view of the mountains. Sight 12 took my breath away, but unfortunately as a tent camper the wind pushed us down to the lake sight just passed it. It was close to the road but still felt private. Everyone who passed our sight was very friendly. It's a gorgeous place, and from someone who's never been to Virginia, it was the perfect place to have my first experience. We will probably go back when we are heading back down south.
- Joe M.Traveler
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
8:00pm Arrival
You read that right. All the plans to arrive earlier went out the window and I pulled into the road well after sunset. Able to navigate well enough with recent rainfalls so road was pitted and rocky. Somewhat drove past lake and found pre-utilized spot. Nice ground for set up and plenty of room for vehicle in/egress. The 2:20am howl of the eastern coyote caught me off guard; definitely inside a mile. He traveled because at 2:40am he met his buddies and had a howl-fest in the far distance. By day light I was able to explore and see some great lake sites you would enjoy. Highly recommended. No cell service.
- AAlicia C.
ScoutGandy Creek Dispersed Camping
White noise of the creek
Overnight tent camping with my dog. Saw a raccoon in a tree. So private and peaceful. The water and wind at night made for a nice relaxing sleep. Plenty of trails to explore.
- MMatt P.
GuideDispersed camping at Mower Basin
Best Dispursed Camping!
This is a very accessible trail. We brought our 22ft Ember Overland Trailer down it with ease. While our trailer has high clearance and independent suspension.. you do not need that to get to some great sites!
We tried 3 different sites here and found campground 12 to be our favorite. It is secluded off the road, had amazing views, and tons of room for multiple cars or campers.
Hiking trails are also great and dog friendly!
Ethan W.ScoutDispersed Camping off Forest Road 227
one of the best sites i’ve ever been to
From what i can tell there is about 14 sites along about a 7-8 mile gravel road (some parts are rougher than other) each one different in size and shape. Some with astonishing nearly 360 views of the mountain ranges. Some small enough for 1-3 tent setups. This place is too cool, don’t ruin it with litter please. I have Verizon and was pleasantly surprised to see that from what i can tell sites 1-2 I was able to get a bar or two.
- Cherith S.Scout
Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
Greatest experience of our lives!
Super remote camp spot! The drive to the forest road was a little tight and windy for an inexperienced mountain driver as myself. Wouldn't want to do it at night.
Most camp spots are on loops of more group camping with 4-6 sites at each loop and I believe there were 3 or 4 loops. Not my cup of tea, too fish bowl for me and way too exposed. Outside of the loops, there were 8-10 sites that were more my style, with the one we stayed at was just right! The most perfect spot in the whole place (for our preferences) we were literally on a babbling creek. Couldn't get any closer. Had direct access to water for washing and other needs. However I read in a brochure to not drink the water without boiling for 3 minutes because the area has giardia.
Saw a lot of people headed further down creek to fish for trout. No cell service for about 20 minutes. We had to drive back to route 33 and the halfway to Elkins to catch a sliver of cell service.
If you are staying at camp and brought everything you need, you're golden. There are lots of things to occupy yourself with exploring. There is a trailhead on forest rd 162 with miles of hiking with a hand full of trails to choose.
We arrived around 4PM on a Sunday. Plenty of sites to choose from. Was about half full. When we got up the next morning to leave, most spots were open. We stayed until mid day on Friday. Action was definitely picking up. Saw more people, more kids and louder noises. We are definitely Sunday to Thursday campers. I want to camp without knowing the neighbors are there. When leaving on Friday most sites were taken.
Had no problems finding plenty of fallen kindling for our fire. We found a great roadside house on route 33 that was selling firewood in their front yard for only $10 a "row" as they called it. We got 2 rows because we werent sure what to expect when we got there. We built a good hearty fire every morning and every evening and still had firewood we left there since there was so much accessible resources.
We ended up doing a lot of "tourist" experiences that was a bit of a drive to get to due to my inexperience in driving in the mountains. The drives were usually 30 minutes to an hour and a half. But well worth the drive.
Elkins is the closest place to "civilization" (north on 33) we went there for cheap gas, ice, and the grocery store. Didn't explore Elkins as it was too "city" for us. We wanted more remote experiences.
Harman was the next closest place (south on 33) not much for exploring, but they have a dollar general (what remote town doesn't have a dollar general?) and a place for gas
Continue on 33 south and hit Seneca Rocks! Such a beautiful sight to see! Also have the oldest general store built in 1902 and Yokums country store. Its like going back in time. Both tourist traps but worth the experience. We went to the recreation area with river access so beautiful to see the cliffs upclose and personal. If you are a climber this is the place for you. We are hikers. But enjoyed the views.
Continuing on 33 south there is smoke hole caverns. Another tourist trap but fun. For $20 you get a cavern tour tack on a little more if you want to go gem "panning" and get a bag of dirt to find gems. Or putt putt. Giant gift shop. Someone said it was the largest gift shop in West Virginia.
From Seneca Rocks if you head west on 28 it will take you past Seneca Caverns. They were closed for the summer due to blasting nearby.
Continuing on 28 west you then come to one of my favorite spots. Spruce Knob. The highest elevation in all of West Virginia, gorgeous views all around! Terrible observation tower that you cant see anything due to trees. Nice picnic area. Going down the other side of the mountain Spruce Knob lake, lots more trail heads AND a fantastic dispersed camping area! Seneca Creek backcountry. Didn't camp here. Will camp here next time. All dirt roads down the other side of the mountain. But so worth the adventure!
From camp and going to Harman take 32 east and that will take you to Canaan Valley state park, didn't explore too much but access to a lot more hiking
Then you come to Davis WV one of the cutest little towns ever! Very developed for back country but very very quaint. The davis depot has some camping/hiking clothes and lots of tourist items with t-shirts stickers and such. But great designs. Spent a hunk of change here. Has a grocery store and a dollar general. And a hiking, camping, backpacking store. Has gear, clothes, shoes, you name it. Had an issue with my hiking boots. Got good quality boots here! There are several small boutique stores a couple of restaurants a brewery and a bicycle shop.
Last point of interest I'll address, on the other side of Davis, Blackwater State Park. Easy in intermediate hiking here did most of our hiking here. Gorgeous falls. 3 to be exact. Nice overlooks. Nice recreation center for the kids. Near Canaan loop rd.[Canaan loop rd has dispersed camping too. This is where I had planned on camping when we came to WV and ended up over in Glady. However, I was told by the guy at the camp store in Davis that it was closed. I cannot confirm this. But just definitely check into it before solidifying plans]
My preferences for camping are not usually the whole tourist thing. But WV has so much to offer I just couldn't get enough! So we kept trekking out to see more. The drive is a lot and was a whole day's journey round trip with spending time at those locations but so worth it. Not that far of a drive in the scheme of things
Will come back to this area over and over for all the dispersed camping options and for all the sights and experiences packed in such a small area.
- Carlos O.Traveler
Wolf Gap Recreation Area
Very clean spot
Very nice spot, good tent setup pads and fire rings at all the sites, my one complaint is that it is right next to the road that while not frequently used, the occasional car can often take away from the remote experience. There are some sites a little further in but the diff is minimal. Overall very great, well maintained spot
Kimberly C.GuideMonongahela National Forest Dispersed Site
Not for me
I used the coordinates and it took me to a campground that charges $15 a day. They weren’t private being right on the gravel road. There were tables,pits and the shepherds hook in each one. There were some that were on the river. There were toilets. I didn’t use them so I can’t say anything more about them. Not much sun thru the dense trees for solar. I kept driving around the forest on FR227 and came upon a whole nother set of labeled dispersed campsites that were very private and have open areas for solar. They were numbered. There were at least 12 that I saw.
Guide to Davis
Rustic camping near Davis, West Virginia centers within the Monongahela National Forest, at elevations ranging from 2,000-4,000 feet. This region experiences significant temperature variations between seasons and even day to night, with summer highs averaging 75°F and nighttime lows dipping to 45°F. Winter camping requires special preparation with temperatures regularly falling below freezing and significant snowfall accumulation common from November through April.
What to do
Hiking at Blackwater Falls: From Canaan Loop Road Dispersed campsites, access nearby hiking trails. "There are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that are tricker to see while driving... there are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park," reports Lillian R.
Wildlife observation: Track and identify animal species throughout dispersed camping areas. At Little River Dispersed Campsites, visitors often encounter diverse wildlife. "Not even 2 minutes from our dispersed camp site we were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict," notes Luke M., highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Swimming in natural pools: Several creek-side sites offer swimming opportunities during warmer months. At Gandy Creek, "several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming," according to Sandra B., who stayed at the site with the cliff overhang.
Off-road exploration: Access remote camping sites via forest roads that require appropriate vehicles. Canaan Loop Road provides multiple access points with varying difficulty levels. "I really enjoyed the Caanan Loop Road. It all dispersed camping and if you have a 4x4 you can complete the loop. If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle," explains Clayton S.
What campers like
Diverse ecosystems: The region offers multiple terrain types within short distances. At Dolly Sods Backcountry, "so many different landscapes packed into one area. We did an overnight trip and had so much fun," shares Alexandra B. This high-elevation plateau features unique plant communities similar to those found much further north.
Creek-side solitude: Sites positioned along waterways provide natural sound barriers. "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek. The only others we saw from our campsite were people fishing downstream from our camp and they were respectful of our space," explains Melanie S.
Primitive amenities: Most sites feature established fire rings but minimal facilities. At Lower Glady, "the campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky," notes Kevin C., highlighting the maintained facilities at this dispersed site.
Winter camping opportunities: For prepared campers, off-season visits offer solitude and unique conditions. "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites," shares Jacob about Canaan Loop Road, while Rhea B. adds, "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road."
What you should know
Weather variability: Conditions change rapidly at higher elevations. At Flagpole Knob, Adrian F. advises, "If you know it's going to be windy don't camp at the peak. There's plenty of camp spots close by with some cover from trees."
Road conditions: Many access routes require appropriate vehicles with clearance. For Little River Dispersed Campsites, Tommy S. warns, "We drove in from the south, through Durbin, which is almost 7 miles on a pothole ridden dirt road. Dangerous for RVs, great for those looking for an escape."
Limited facilities: Most sites lack water sources, toilets, or trash service. David S. notes the need for self-sufficiency: "The sites are so spaced out on the road that each is very private, though you see an occasional car drive by. There are no toilets, so bring your shovel."
Cell service limitations: Communication options are extremely restricted. Luke M. notes about Little River, "Lost cell service an hour before reaching the area. Utterly beautiful, pretty untouched wilderness. Very very quiet location."
Previous user impacts: Site cleanliness varies by location and timing. "While the wilderness is beautiful and untouched, the previous campers left behind some sweet teas and cans, which probably is why the wildlife was so close," observes Luke M., emphasizing the importance of removing trash.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose camping spots based on specific family needs. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, "the sites ranges in size from tent capable to large RV and group sites. Sites will usually have a fire circle and you are close to the creek," notes Joshua H., making this location suitable for mixed-age groups.
Water activities: Select creek-side spots for natural play areas. "We lucked out with a very spacious site right at the creek's edge. Towering pines lined the sight, and provided a gorgeous backdrop for the stars and fireflies at night," shares Tommy S. about Gandy Creek.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use sightings as teaching moments while maintaining safety. Lucille W. shares that Dolly Sods offers "a completely different and unique ecosystem than the surrounding area," providing natural learning experiences for children.
Access considerations: Plan arrival times carefully as sites fill quickly on weekends. Leonard M. cautions about Lower Glady: "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Most dispersed sites demand vehicles with appropriate ground clearance. For Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping, Mike C. advises: "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."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. Joe W. notes about Lower Glady, "We pulled our 28 foot travel trailer in past I'd say ten other campsites that were taken. The last big turnaround featured four rv accessible campfires for us to pick."
Seasonal road access: Winter and early spring conditions may prevent larger vehicle access. Scott R. remarks about Canaan Loop Road: "Very, very damp," indicating potential traction issues for heavier vehicles after rain or snow melt.
Supply planning: Stock all necessities as resupply options are limited. Clayton S. advises Canaan Loop Road visitors: "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Davis Willow dispersed campground located?
Where is Davis Willow dispersed campground located?
Davis Willow dispersed camping is likely similar to other dispersed sites in the Monongahela National Forest region of West Virginia. While specific information about Davis Willow isn't available in the reviews, similar dispersed camping areas like Dolly Sods Backcountry are located within the Monongahela National Forest. When searching for dispersed camping in this region, it's important to use Forest Service maps to confirm locations, as some areas that appear to be public land may actually be private property, as experienced by campers at Gladwin Dispersed Camping. Always verify site locations with the local Forest Service office before your trip.
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Davis Willow?
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Davis Willow?
While specific permit information for Davis Willow isn't available in the reviews, many dispersed camping areas in national forests follow similar guidelines. At Little River Dispersed Campsites in the Monongahela National Forest, permits aren't typically required for dispersed camping. Similarly, Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227 doesn't mention permit requirements. However, it's always best to check with the local Forest Service office before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally. Some areas may have fire restrictions or temporary closures that affect camping access. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles regardless of permit requirements.
What facilities are available at Davis Willow dispersed camping area?
What facilities are available at Davis Willow dispersed camping area?
Dispersed camping areas typically have minimal or no facilities. Based on similar dispersed sites, Davis Willow likely has no potable water, restrooms, or established fire rings. At Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping, campers report no potable water, no restrooms, and no provided firewood. Similarly, at Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area, facilities are primitive with campers needing to bring all supplies. You should prepare to be fully self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and camping gear. Cell service may be limited or nonexistent in these remote areas, so plan accordingly for emergency communication needs.
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