Dispersed camping near Hambleton, West Virginia includes a mix of established primitive sites and more remote options at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with nighttime lows sometimes dropping below 40°F even in summer months. Many dispersed campsites feature distinctive fire rings built with locally sourced rocks and access to smaller tributary streams rather than just the main waterways.
What to do
Mountain biking on surrounding trails: The Mower Basin area features a network of single-track trails that accommodate various skill levels. "There is a small network of single track trails for anyone with a bike... The trails were well maintained and offered a wonderful variety of wooded and open space riding," reports a visitor to Dispersed camping at Mower Basin.
Winter camping adventures: For those prepared for cold conditions, winter offers a unique camping experience. "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites," notes one camper at Canaan Loop Road Dispersed. Another winter camper adds, "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered."
Fishing in lesser-known spots: Many dispersed sites provide direct access to fishing opportunities beyond the main waterways. A visitor to Lower Glady Dispersed Campground shared: "Nice and quiet. A few friendly fishermen each day, sharing local knowledge." Another camper simply stated, "Nice camp sites, and good fishing."
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Unlike more developed campgrounds, many dispersed camping areas near Hambleton offer significant separation between sites. "The sites are so spread out/the foliage is so thick that you can't see or hear anyone," explains one visitor at Dispersed camping at Mower Basin.
Unique riverside locations: Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping offers distinctive waterside sites: "Our site had a hidden waterfall across the creek. If you listen, you can hear the loud falls over the normal creek sounds," shares one camper. Another adds, "We stayed at the last site with the cliff over hang and it was magical."
Natural features at campsites: Many spots contain unique natural elements worth seeking out. "We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping!" reports a camper at Canaan Loop Road Dispersed. Another camper at the same location noted, "The moss was like walking on carpet."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads can become challenging depending on weather. "The road to access these campsites is tucked in the back of a residential area. We missed it the first time by and had to turn around!" explains a camper at Little River Dispersed Campsites.
Wildlife awareness is critical: Bears are active in these areas. "Not even 2 minutes from our dispersed camp site we were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear... We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe," warns a visitor at Little River Dispersed Campsites.
Popular sites fill quickly: Plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons. "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," notes one camper at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with natural play features: Several areas have child-friendly natural elements. "When you park and walk down to the river, if you turn right, there's a beach area about 50 yards down that offers a great spot to take a dip!" recommends a camper at Little River Dispersed Campsites.
Select sites based on tent-friendly terrain: Some dispersed areas offer better ground for tent stakes than others. "Soft ground for staking a tent," notes a visitor to Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area, adding "The campsites are just pullouts in the road with fire pits. Good quality dirt access road, no problem for my Honda Civic."
Consider proximity to facilities: While most sites lack amenities, a few have basic facilities. "There are numerous disbursed camping sites at this location. We arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen," shares a camper at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground.
Tips for RVers
RV-suitable sites are limited but available: Some areas can accommodate smaller trailers. "We only drove down to the second site, but it was awesome! Big site, good fire ring, paths to walk right from the site," notes a Canaan Loop Road visitor.
Identify turnaround locations: Finding suitable places to turn larger vehicles is critical. "We pulled in just at sunset on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend and drove through the entire length of the campground to see that all the sites were filled. We got to the turn around and noticed a couple of fire pits setup," explains a camper at Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area.
Prepare for varied clearance needs: Some sites require higher clearance vehicles. "Just have to push through some steep gravel roads but we did it in truck and trailer," reports a camper at Dolly Sods Backcountry. Another camper shares, "We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!"
