The mountainous terrain around Paint Bank, Virginia sits within Jefferson National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the 70s°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Primitive camping options are concentrated along forest roads and near waterways, with most sites lacking amenities beyond basic fire rings.
What to do
Bouldering and hiking: Near Johns Spring Shelter, access popular hiking trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Another cool thing about this area is that there's some fairly nice bouldering to be found near the top. Some of the routes are a little under maintained and mossy, but there are some fun ones," notes camper Sam M.
Swimming and fishing: The New River provides recreation options at Army Camp. "Area for people to swim in the river or fish. One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet," reports Billy C. The river offers different experiences based on water levels, with deeper swimming areas during summer months.
Appalachian Trail access: Multiple forest roads connect to AT trailheads. At Walnut Flats, "trail right through the campground and the Appalachian trail just across the road," according to SomadNomad M. Day hikes range from moderate 3-mile loops to challenging 8-mile sections with significant elevation gain.
What campers like
Creekside serenity: At George Washington National Forest off 812, campers appreciate the water access. "There are 6-8 different sites, all are beautiful and most are right next to the creek. There was a fire ring and man made stone oven at the site we chose," notes Sawyer B.
Privacy and seclusion: Many primitive camping areas near Paint Bank offer isolation. "I stopped here for a night while traveling across the country. It is a hilly drive down back roads off of 81. The site itself is nice, perfect for car camping. Fire ring and river are right there, no toilets. I didn't see anyone else near this site when I stayed," Ryan L. shares about a Forest Road 812 site.
Multiple site options: When first-choice sites are taken, alternatives often exist nearby. "We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site & we got one for 3 nights," Kelly K. explains about dispersed camping along FR 812.
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Competition for sites increases on weekends and during peak seasons. "If you're planning on coming here, make sure and come early," advises Rhys R. about Army Camp. This particularly applies during fall foliage season when demand spikes throughout the region.
Water sources: Most sites require bringing water or filtering from streams. At Johns Spring Shelter, Lucy P. notes it's "pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source." Walnut Flats has a "well water pump for drinking water but didn't use it," according to SomadNomad M.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by site and weather conditions. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, R C. mentions it's "Maybe 5-10 min off of highway 220" and Clayton S. notes "If you follow the road further, about a quarter of a mile, is another spot for about two or three vehicles."
Cell service limitations: Most sites have limited or no connectivity. Mikaela K. advises, "No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came." At Walnut Flats, "There is no internet access but there is enough signal you can get text sometimes. You need to drive about ten minutes to the gas station to get dependable coverage," according to Alice S.
Tips for camping with families
Established site amenities: Walnut Flats offers more creature comforts than typical dispersed sites. "It has five established camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The bathroom is a pit style but it was still clean and didn't smell," describes Alice S. These features make it more suitable for families with younger children.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forested settings provide animal watching opportunities. "In the spring, it is covered in wild hares," Clayton S. mentions about Poor Farm's main camping area. Morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Bathroom options: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but some exceptions exist. At Army Camp, Caroline F. notes, "Very clean pit toilet bathroom," while at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, visitors should prepare for no facilities as it's described as having "no toilets" in site features.
Tips from RVers
Access for smaller vehicles: While most primitive sites near Paint Bank accommodate cars and small vans, larger RVs face challenges. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, Jon N. warns, "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Leveling and setup: Site terrain varies significantly. At Army Camp, Kristi D. reports, "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."
RV repair opportunities: Some sites provide space for maintenance work. At Walnut Flats, SomadNomad M. stayed "just shy of 2 weeks" and noted "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."
