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Best Dispersed Camping near Martinsburg, WV

9 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Martinsburg, West Virginia include several primitive sites within an hour's drive. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers basic roadside camping with vault toilets and trash disposal. The site features level, grassy areas suitable for tents, though experienced campers recommend hiking further in for better sites. Little Fort Campground in Virginia provides free established sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and tent platforms. Campers select sites using a self-registration board with washers to indicate occupancy.

Most dispersed sites in this region require visitors to pack in all necessary water. According to reviews, Veach Gap in George Washington National Forest has no reliable water sources after the first mile of trail. Squirrel Hollow Road and Squirrel Gap Road offer true boondocking experiences with multiple pull-off sites accessible to small vehicles and teardrop trailers. Several campers noted these areas remain quiet on weekdays but become popular with locals on weekends. Expect some logging traffic during business hours.

Fire regulations permit campfires at most sites, though visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles. Buchanan State Forest charges approximately $10 per night and requires permits, contrary to some online listings indicating free access. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region; Little Fort Campground has no reception, while Veach Gap offers service at the ridgeline but not on the access road. Weather conditions can change rapidly in these mountainous areas, particularly during spring and fall. Prepare for limited facilities by bringing adequate water, food supplies, and waste disposal bags.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Martinsburg, West Virginia (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Martinsburg, WV

9 Photos of 7 Martinsburg Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Martinsburg, WV

9 Reviews of 7 Martinsburg Campgrounds

  • Jon N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2022

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    My favorite Hike in the area

    I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Squirrel Hollow Road Camping

    Convenient off the road boondocking

    Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by cat or with a small teardrop trailer.

    True boondocking, haul it in, pack it out. Evidence of a cat hole in the site we picked

    Sites were quiet at night. Some traffic related to logging activity. Looks like a popular weekend camp spot for locals.

    We camped during the week and had nobody else camping on weekdays.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed

    It's quiet

    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. Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood.

  • TJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2023

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    Amazing Campsite

    Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Shawl Gap

    Hammock Camping

    Great Hammock camping off the trail near shawls gap

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2023

    Compton Gap Backcountry camping — Shenandoah National Park

    Buggy and damp

    Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Road side site is not too bad

    As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either, However no one came by. Other than that the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site.

  • Frank G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 6, 2022

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Hike in

    I spent a night here. There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em. Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired.

  • Jon D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 30, 2025

    Squirrel Hollow Road Camping

    Spacious sites

    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

Guide to Martinsburg

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Martinsburg, West Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking views at Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site, where a four-mile hike rewards you with stunning vistas of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains.
  • The Little Fort Campground offers a peaceful retreat in the woods, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the tranquility of nature.
  • For a unique experience, check out Buchanan State Forest, where the remnants of the abandoned PA turnpike add an intriguing historical element to your camping adventure.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Martinsburg

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Martinsburg, West Virginia

  • Always pack out what you pack in at Squirrel Hollow Road Camping to help maintain the natural beauty of the area and ensure a pleasant experience for future campers.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at Buchanan State Forest, as there are no toilets or trash services available, making it essential to plan accordingly.
  • When visiting Zepp Mountain Dispersed, remember that it’s a hike-in site with no water hookups, so bring enough water for your stay and be ready for a bit of a trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules for boondocking near Martinsburg?

When boondocking near Martinsburg, follow leave-no-trace principles strictly. At Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed, you'll find primitive sites with stone fire rings and available firewood, but must pack out all trash and waste. At Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, a $10 camping fee may apply, though payment information isn't always clear. Standard boondocking rules apply: stay in established sites, keep noise to a minimum especially after dark, properly extinguish all fires, dispose of human waste in catholes at least 200 feet from water sources, and leave your site cleaner than you found it. Always check for fire restrictions before your trip as they can change seasonally.

Are there free RV parking options around Martinsburg?

Little Fort Campground offers free camping with some sites that can accommodate smaller RVs or trailers. This established campground provides amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, parking spots, and vault toilets. No reservations are needed – simply claim an available site by flipping the washer on the board from green to red. For a more primitive option, Shawl Gap provides spaces for those with compact rigs. When RV boondocking in these areas, be prepared for self-contained camping without hookups, bring all necessary supplies including water, and follow proper waste disposal practices. Road conditions vary, so research accessibility for your specific RV size before traveling.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Martinsburg, WV?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Martinsburg. Squirrel Hollow Road Camping offers sites less than a mile from the paved highway with multiple spots suitable for cars or small trailers. For those seeking a backcountry experience, Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site provides beautiful views of the Shenandoah River after a 4-mile hike. Park at the Veach Gap Trailhead and follow the trail, making a left at the intersection. Remember that these areas follow true dispersed camping principles – pack in and pack out all supplies and waste. Most sites have minimal amenities, so come prepared with everything you need including water.

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