Skidmore Fork (FR 227) in VA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in Virginia
Skidmore Fork (FR 227) in VA
An 11.2-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Rockingham County, VA.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, North River Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days. Camp at least 100 ft from water.
8.5 of the 11.2 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. 8.5 of the 11.2 miles in are dirt. Climbs 2,500 ft over 11.2 miles -- sustained grades near 14%, with pitches to 34%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~130 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 12 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. Water crossings 0.1, 0.8, 1, 1.3, 1.5, 4.5, 4.9, 6, 7.8, 7.8, 9, 9 and 10.8 miles in. A gate 11 miles in.
High Knob stands 1,726 ft above the site, 1.4 miles northwest. A well-travelled stretch -- travellers have camped along here. Private here -- the nearest through road is 2.1 miles off. The Switzer Lake shoreline is 0.7 mi off. The nearest town, Belmont Estates, is 15 mi off.
September normals 50–73°F, 4.2″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, North River Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov