Top Free Dispersed Camping near Martinsburg, WV

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Martinsburg, look no further. Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Martinsburg, WV (6)

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      1. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

      2 Reviews
      15 Saves

      Map: https://wvdnr.gov/wmamapproj/pdf/pdf300/EdwardsRunFinal11x17_300dpi.pdf

      Primitive camping is provided as well as parking, a pit toilet and trash cans. Get your DNR permit and enjoy a day in the woods.

      The 397-acre Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is principally forested in oak and hickory though it includes approximately 17 acres of brush and scattered clearing. Deer, squirrel, and turkey are the principal species hunted in the management area. Edwards Run, a tributary of the Cacapon River, accommodates fishing for trout and is stocked from February until May. Six primitive campsites with pit toilets have been developed in the management area.

      Directions: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area is located in eastern Hampshire County two miles north of Capon Bridge, WV. To reach the area from Capon Bridge, follow highway US-50 to WV-15 north.

      Edwards Run WMA is managed by the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. It was formerly known as the Edwards Run Public Hunting & Fishing Area.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Dispersed
      • Trash
      • Toilets
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest

      2. Buchanan State Forest

      3 Reviews
      15 Photos
      9 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Dispersed
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground

      4. Little Fort Campground

      3 Reviews
      8 Photos
      112 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
      Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping
      • No image available

        6. Zepp Mountain Dispersed

        Be the first to review!
        1 Save

        Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed areas and other campers. Dispersed camping requires extra responsibilities and skills.

        Keep a pack-in pack-out camp. Amenities like water, restrooms or trash cans are not provided.
        There are no fees or permit required for dispersed camping in small groups. Group size is limited to no more than 10 people in a designated Wilderness.
        Camping stay is limited to 21 consecutive days.
        Please camp at least 200 feet from any stream or other water source.
        Contact the local District Office to see if any restrictions are in place.
        Use a good map to ensure you are not on private land.
        Be bear aware: keep a clean camp and keep food out of reach of bears.
        • Fires
        • Dispersed

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Martinsburg

      9 Reviews of 6 Martinsburg Campgrounds


      • M
        Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
        Oct. 27, 2024

        Buchanan State Forest

        Interesting and Rustic

        This was my first experience camping with no hookups. The park is very large, with interesting trails to explore. I had not been aware of the abandoned PA turnpike that runs through the park; very interesting and haunting. It’s extremely quiet, with not a whole lot to do, but very peaceful. A terrific place to see the stars. And while it’s not free, it’s only $10/night.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
        Jul. 9, 2024

        Buchanan State Forest

        Dyrt is wrong , AGAIN

        just pulled in and 1st spot looks great except it says on the sign THAT YOU NEED A PERMIT , DYRT So F'ing glad I paid for pro to show me the free campsites OH WAIT I JUST PAID $51.50 FOR 3 NIGHTS TO STAY AT THIS "FREE" SITE. Greed Is Killing America. Dyrt should give refunds.

      • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area
        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.

      • TJ W.
        Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
        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.

      • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Compton Gap backcountry camping
        Sep. 17, 2023

        Compton Gap backcountry camping

        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.

      • Frank G.
        Camper-submitted photo from Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area
        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 N.
        Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
        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.



      Guide to Martinsburg

      Camping near Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

      What to do:

      • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground rave about the "breathtaking views" and "tons to do in the area," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
      • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. One visitor at Rocky Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "This park has some good hiking and river access," perfect for those who love to cast a line.
      • Swimming: Take a dip in the lake at Greenbrier State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The swimming lake is excellent," making it a great spot for families looking to cool off.

      What campers like:

      • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. A visitor at Mathews Arm Campground said, "The bathrooms are very clean and well maintained," which is a big plus for many.
      • Secluded sites: Many campers enjoy the privacy offered by the sites. One reviewer at Cowans Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "The privacy of our site was pretty good and we had nice shade."
      • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA shared, "The staff made me feel comfortable as this was my first RVing experience."

      What you should know:

      • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Mathews Arm Campground noted, "There is no electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm."
      • Crowded during peak times: Popular campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Rocky Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "It stays booked because it is such a well-maintained campground."
      • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Green Ridge State Forest shared, "You can hear the beautiful sounds of nature," which includes the possibility of seeing some local wildlife.

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and swimming areas. A reviewer at Rocky Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
      • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids engaged. One camper at Greenbrier State Park Campground noted, "There are also easy trails from the camping loops to the lake."
      • Pack essentials: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A visitor at Codorus State Park Campground said, "The sites are fairly large and they do have some full hookup sites which is nice."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA mentioned, "The sites were so unlevel, close together," which can be a challenge for larger RVs.
      • Look for electric hookups: If you need power, confirm availability before booking. A visitor at Bull Run Regional Park noted, "Sites are gravel pretty level and not too close."
      • Plan for noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park shared, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place," so be prepared for that.

      Camping around Martinsburg, WV, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Martinsburg, WV?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Martinsburg, WV is Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Martinsburg, WV?

        TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Martinsburg, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.