Anglers and paddlers find access to both Switzer Lake and a creek system at this dispersed camping area in George Washington National Forest. The single-lane dirt road extends roughly two miles beyond the lake's boat ramp, offering multiple primitive sites tucked into the forest along both waterways.
The road surface presents challenges that define the camping experience here. Emil D. notes it's "a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain," while several campers emphasize the need for higher clearance vehicles. Sites range from larger clearings near the lake to more secluded spots deeper in the woods alongside the creek. A river crossing along the road opens access to additional camping areas, though the terrain becomes more demanding for low-clearance vehicles.
Trout fishing draws visitors to both the lake and creek, with electric motors and paddle craft permitted on the water. The boat ramp provides lake access, though campers should avoid setting up directly at waterfront locations with existing fire rings, as forest rangers enforce camping restrictions in these areas. Bears frequent the area, making proper food storage in vehicles essential.
The rocky, unpaved access road requires careful navigation and eliminates cell phone coverage for all carriers. Sites fill up quickly during weekends, particularly those closest to water features. Unfortunately, litter remains an ongoing issue at some locations, with multiple reviewers noting trash and debris around established fire rings.
Adam G. appreciates the variety, finding "a huge variety of spots, starting from huge ones right on the lake to more secluded, smaller spots deeper in the woods along the creek." This free camping area works best for self-sufficient campers with capable vehicles who don't mind primitive conditions and can pack out all waste.
Description
This colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound. Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping is located in Virginia
Coordinates
38.5656425 N
79.14818397 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 12/11/25
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 12/11/25
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 30 min from Harrisonburg, VA
- 1 hr 19 min from Charlottesville, VA
- 1 hr 24 min from Winchester, VA




































