Today’s Ultimate Guide to the Best Free Camping in Virginia for Couples
Are you looking for a low-cost vacation or honeymoon? If you live in or plan to stop in Virginia, you can’t go wrong with camping. Whether you plan on using an RV or a tent, there are so many great areas for camping. Thes best thing that some of these sites are free! Truly, some cost nothing at all. If you are looking for the best free camping in Virginia, welcome to our helpful guide.
Guide to the Best Free Camping in Virginia
Virginia is one of the top destinations for those looking to explore the great outdoors. With miles of public parks, national forests, and private campgrounds, there is everything you could need to spend time outdoors. In fact, the Blue Ridge Parkway was one of the top ten most visited National Parks last year.
There are plenty of dispersed camping opportunities and some basic campsites that offer free camping in VA and offer savings. While these may not be your traditional campsite experiences, they are still great for free overnight camping in Virginia.
If you’ve been wondering where can you camp for free in Virginia, there are several places to consider.
Types of Free Camping Sites in Virginia
There are three different options available for free campgrounds in Virginia, and each area has different opportunities. Choose from the free campsites based on the type of experience you’re looking for. Also, consider how long you plan to go camping.
Camping on Public Land in Virginia
There are some primitive camping options on public lands. Dispersed camping is allowed in these areas. Consequently, you can stay as long as you’re not there for a maximum of 14 days within 28 days.
You have to camp away from developed recreation areas or other campgrounds. However, these can still be good free campsites in Virginia if you don’t mind the lack of amenities.
Camping in Virginia’s National Forests
There are two different national forests here that offer free camping opportunities. The first is George Washington National Forest, and the second is Jefferson National Forest. These allow primitive or dispersed camping in some of the areas in the forest.
Again, these will have the same rules as public land camping. Consequently, these forests can be a great option if you’re looking to do some of the hiking trails here.
Overnight Camping in a Parking Lot
Not all parking lots are fair game here. However, some of them do make good overnight camping spots if you’re looking for a place to park your RV.
With owner approval, you can camp overnight at larger locations with big parking lots, such as Cracker Barrel and Walmart. Again, this is more for free RV camping in Virginia and not for tent-style accommodations.
Sites for the Best Free Camping in Virginia
- Oronoco Campground – If you’re looking for free campsites in Virginia with access to fishing, hunting, or hiking, head to Oronoco. It’s part of the George Washington National Forest.
- Scotch Town Draft – This offers free camping in VA and is open all year round. Plus, there are only 1-5 campsites at this site. However, there is no limit on RV length.
- Little Fort Campground – Also part of George Washington National Forest, this is a great spot for campers looking for peace and quiet.
- Steel Bridge Campground – If you are looking for remote free Virginia campsites, this is a great option. Steel Bridge has a stream for fishing, outhouses, and picnic tables. Otherwise, it’s truly remote.
- Walnut Flats – With grills, well water, and public toilets for use, this is one of the best free campsites in Virginia. Located just by the Appalachian Trail, there is access to several great hiking trails.
- Big Bend – If you’re looking to do some remote camping, this is it! The picnic area has fantastic views and just the right amount of quiet. The road can be a little rough and rocky, but the views are worth it!
If you are looking for a great free camping experience, Virginia has so many fabulous options. Whether you’re traveling by RV or looking to spend a night or two in a tent, these campsites are worth stopping by to check out.
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Photos: Taryn Elliott, Rachel Claire, Peyda Hirori, Teemu R
I guess I thought that the only free camping spaces these days were in mall parking lots! So great to read there are some lovely options in Virginia. And that in some places you could stay as 14 days! Great if you really want to get away from it all.
This is such a great list! Free camping is the best, especially for long-term travelers. Also love the image of the charcuterie and the campfire… describes a romantic camping trip perfectly!
I absolutely love free camping spaces. It is amazing to read that Virginia has such camping sites and they allow people to stay for long term. Its really cool. I have never been to Virginia but I when I visit I will surely camp at one of these sites.
I love the idea of pitching a tent on public ground and
having complete solitude. Walnut Flats proximity to the
Appalachian Trail sounds like a great option too. I have always wondered
about the RVs in the Wal Mart parking lot, good to know Cracker Barrel is
another option.
Wow! So many options for free camping in Virginia! I would love to put up a tent in a scenic area such as Big Bend. Walnut flats sounds good too with toilet, grill and hiking trails. Great idea if you want some peace and quiet to yourself! 🙂
I love camping. Time spent close to nature makes me rest the best. I love the smell of the forest and the chirping of birds in the morning. I’d love to use your tips where I can camp for free in Virginia. I am planning a road trip to this state, so your guide is perfect!
I grew up camping, but also have grew out of camping. I have such fond memories, and nostalgia for camp fires at night, nature sounds, and the views. Big Bend sounds like my kind of spot.
Since I hate driving, good to know there’s an option of camping too. It seems like a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
We love going camping and this post is really helpful. Bookmarked this for future reference. Thank you for sharing the best sites for free camping. Steel Bridge Campground is on top of our list.
We love going camping and this post is really helpful. Bookmarked this for future reference. Thank you for sharing the best sites for free camping. Steel Bridge Campground is on top of our list. 🙂