Dismal Creek (FR 201) in VA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in Virginia
Dismal Creek (FR 201) in VA
A 31.1-mile stretch of gravel National Forest road in Giles County, VA. The road is open seasonally, April 1 to January 10.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Eastern Divide Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days. Camp at least 100 ft from water.
22.6 of the 31.1 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Mostly gravel, with 2.1 miles of dirt. Climbs 4,600 ft over 31.1 miles -- sustained grades near 12%, with pitches to 20%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~120 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 26 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. A locked gate 16.8 miles in.
A well-travelled stretch -- travellers have camped along here. Private here -- the nearest through road is 2.1 miles off. A body of water lies 0.5 mi off. Middle Ridge stands 604 ft above the site, 1.2 miles east. Night skies measure Bortle 2 -- true dark-sky territory. The nearest town, Narrows, is 8.8 mi off.
September normals 55–76°F, 3.3″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Eastern Divide Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov