Top Free Dispersed Camping near Wardensville, WV

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Wardensville? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your West Virginia camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wardensville, WV (18)

Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Wardensville

54 Reviews of 18 Wardensville Campgrounds


  • Harley G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    First night

    This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Sep. 9, 2024

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Great site, bad timing?

    The site was wonderful! Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick. There is a launch in the middle, so there is a bit of come and go. The real issue was the land directly across the river that had 20+ people playing loud music at almost all hours. Docked one star for that but everything else was great. Bathrooms had no TP so bring your own, and please remember to pack out your trash! Plenty of firewood from downed trees, sites are dirt which makes staking down easy, but I can imagine it would be muddy if it rains.

    EDIT: I went back early October to possibly camp again, shortly after the hurricane rains had passed. The sites were underwater or filled with river mud, making them completely un-campable. Just keep this in mind when you go out.

  • Sumner C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Shenandoah River
    Apr. 21, 2024

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Great view on the river

    The road to get to the campsite was well maintained and easy to get to. Campsites themselves were a tad overgrown but it was the beginning of the season. Seemed to be about a dozen spots to camp. Each site had its own fire pit. Quiet and peaceful.

  • kylie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Terrible road to get in

    I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .

  • 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.

  • Emil D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 31, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Nice area the camp spots can use some work

    I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.

    The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.

    There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.

    The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.

    Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.

  • 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.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed
    Oct. 13, 2023

    Laurel Prong Trail Dispersed

    Hard to find.

    This campsite is another one we found on a list provided by Shenandoah’s park rangers and was listed as moderate hike and easy camping. I think, just like some other on the list, the easy camping might be a slight exaggeration. It was not particularly easy to find and we couldn’t find a super great spot. Good views on the hike.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful area!

    I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. 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. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!

  • 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.

  • Matt M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, but...

    My site was great. It was an established site with a fire ring. It had a large clearing with a pretty flat spot for my tent. I accessed the site on my motorcycle. You wouldn't get a car/truck to the site. The trail is only about 30 yards. I am not sure I was in a camping allowed spot though. Some reviews say you have to go farther down the road. So there is that. I need to get more specific guidelines. Regardless, it was a great night if camping. I was pretty discouraged by the amount of trash. I grabbed as much as I could fit, but I didn't have extra bags or extra room, being the bike.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great For No Hassle One-Night Camping

    I only stopped there one night on my way through to Delaware, but it was just what I needed. Great views too, it was quite windy though on the lake. Might be something to keep in mind. Most vehicles should be fine coming in off of 33. From what I hear from another camper, it is rough coming the other way with anything other than something that can scale rocks

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    May. 23, 2023

    Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    Great Spot

    My partner and I like to camp here every year, this year being our third. We’ve found a few nice little spots to set up camp. Great trails nearby with wonderful views.

  • 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.

  • Matthew F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 31, 2022

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Plenty of spots not near the lake

    We couldn’t find the spots closer to the lake so we ended up alongside a creek further down the road from the switzer. The road is pretty rocky, but nothing crazy.. Take it slow and most vehicles can get by.

    Our site was great and there were plenty to choose from. Where boots and run in to check out the various sites. I’m sure there would be even cooler ones

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
    Aug. 30, 2022

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Favorite backpacking in WV

    Berries abound. Gorgeous views. Be sure to hang your food. Make sure you see bear rocks! Take a map. This place is just magical.

  • John R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites
    Aug. 20, 2022

    Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

    Love this National Forest!

    There are a lot of dispersed camping spots in VA, Especially in this region! I’ve camped all over the area and have seen many amazing sights! This pinned location doesn’t take you to a specific campground tho!

    You’ll have to do some digging (google free camping VA) and you’ll find plenty of spots! Many spots say they charge a fee but don’t as well so be on the look out!

    One of my favorite spots isn’t on The Dyrt but it’s free and in the Bath County area, It’s called Blowing Springs Campground, located near Covington VA. I also recommend seeing Falling Spring Falls almost a 100 Foot waterfall!

    Very hilly roads leading out to this part of the state but beautiful none the less! No cell service but plenty to see!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Aug. 11, 2022

    Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    Nice

    We arrived in the late afternoon and found a very pleasant back-in spot about a mile or so in. Hiked a few of the nearby trails. Saw some bear scat, but past that the only animals we saw were a few frogs.

    Very, very damp.

  • Clayton S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    May. 6, 2022

    Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    Great spot for winter camping

    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 (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4.  This will take you to Blackwater Falls state Park.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Dolly Sods Backcountry
    Apr. 25, 2022

    Dolly Sods Backcountry

    Best backcountry camping spots in the state

    Excellent weather. There will always be puddles / ponds in the middle of the trails in Dolly Sods, but conditions were generally excellent. Camped at the Forks and most sites ended up full there, but plenty of dispersed camping off other trails.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Switzer Lake
    Mar. 26, 2022

    Switzer Lake

    Need AWD and some ground clearance

    Good little spot, used to go here a lot in college, the drive in can be done by a sedan but I’d definitely recommend AWD/4WD. Great views of the lake surround by pines, free access, drive through the stream to get to a few popular spots. Like most places, please leave it better than you found it, trash has been an issue

  • 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.

  • Rhea B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Dec. 23, 2021

    Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    It snowed but we didn't die 🤣

    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. All of the sites were mud pits but they were easily identified by big fire rings.

    The scenery was gorgeous but don't come here in the winter unless you are prepared for any kind of weather event. It's very secluded and you need to definitely be self sufficient



Guide to Wardensville

Camping near Wardensville, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "There are numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty and distance" at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: The nearby rivers provide great spots for fishing. A visitor at Mathews Arm Campground noted, "This park has some good hiking and river access."
  • Cavern Tours: Don’t miss the chance to visit the Luray Caverns. One camper at Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages said, "We loved the cavern tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A reviewer at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views mentioned, "Each campsite has a view of the Blue Ridge mountains in the distance."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray appreciated that "the bathrooms were clean and all in working order."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Gooney Creek Campground said, "Pam, our gracious host and CG manager was friendly, helpful and very accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wolf Gap, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "There is no electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm."
  • Crowded Sites: Certain campgrounds can feel cramped. A visitor at Mathews Arm Campground mentioned, "The sites are a little close together, but it was quiet."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. One camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground appreciated the "placard fixed to the picnic table at my campsite with bear precautions."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray mentioned, "They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites to accommodate families. A camper at Gooney Creek Campground noted, "The spots are very big and you are well spread out."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise, especially near playgrounds. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray mentioned, "If you are looking for a peaceful experience, do not book near any of the play areas."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify site sizes before booking. A reviewer at Candy Hill Campground advised, "If you have a small camper... you really need to look at site guides."
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Some campgrounds have steep or narrow roads. A camper at Wolf Gap warned, "The road to get here was a little bit treacherous for a vehicle so big."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds that offer the amenities you need. A visitor at Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages mentioned, "The campground is situated on a mountain and can be hard to maneuver."

Camping near Wardensville, West Virginia, provides a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Wardensville, WV is Little Fort Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Wardensville, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.