Hawk Recreation Area
4.3838 reviews102 Koontz St. Edinburg, VA 22824
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Open from April thro...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Open from April thro...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsHawk Recreation Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider540-984-4101
What Campers Say
4.38
Recommended
Based on 38 reviews
71 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulspacioushikingsites
Some mention
bugsmosquitoes
"User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. Common themes include the campground's free status, rustic nature, and scenic surroundings. Complaints focus on the proximity of campsites, lack of maintenance, and issues with insects and noise."
Fees & Passes at Hawk Recreation Area
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum allowed stay is 21 days.
Cancellation: No reservations required; cancellation policies not applicable.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Lee Ranger District Office website.
Best Time to Camp at Hawk Recreation Area
Each season paints Hawk Campground with its own dramatic palette. Winter arrives with crystalline snowfalls and crisp mountain air that can challenge even seasoned campers, while late fall brings both hunting season excitement and the possibility of early snow. Summer unfolds with warm, humid days perfect for creek exploration and cool evenings ideal for campfire conversations. Spring emerges gently with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, but it's autumn that truly steals the show—transforming the surrounding mountains into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber that draws photographers and nature lovers from far and wide.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from April through mid-January.
- Current Alerts: Reviewers mention a posting at the campground stating the well is to be capped and all but one pit toilet closed. Some sites are described as overgrown, with maintenance issues.
About Hawk Recreation Area
Nestled deep within the Alleghany Mountains, Hawk Campground offers a rare escape into untouched wilderness where 15 primitive campsites await those seeking authentic outdoor experiences. This hidden gem, completely free to the public, serves as a gateway to adventure with direct access to the legendary Tuscarora Trail winding through ancient forests. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a hunter's paradise, while throughout the year, visitors discover a sanctuary of solitude where the modern world fades away and nature's rhythms take center stage.
Hawk Campground offers primitive camping with options for tents and RVs. Sites are first-come, first-served, and free of charge.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Hawk Campground may be sparse, the land itself whispers stories of centuries past through its ancient mountain paths and pristine wilderness that remains much as it has for generations.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Hawk Campground with its own dramatic palette. Winter arrives with crystalline snowfalls and crisp mountain air that can challenge even seasoned campers, while late fall brings both hunting season excitement and the possibility of early snow. Summer unfolds with warm, humid days perfect for creek exploration and cool evenings ideal for campfire conversations. Spring emerges gently with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, but it's autumn that truly steals the show—transforming the surrounding mountains into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber that draws photographers and nature lovers from far and wide.
ElevationPositioned within the rolling peaks and valleys of the Alleghany Mountains, the campground's mountain setting provides naturally cooler temperatures and that crisp, clean air that only comes with higher elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babbling of Hawk Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your camping experience, its clear waters carving through a landscape adorned with seasonal wildflowers and towering hardwoods. The Alleghany Mountains embrace the campground in a 360-degree panorama of wilderness, where morning mists drift through valleys and evening light filters through dense canopies. This spectacular natural amphitheater offers ever-changing vistas—from delicate spring wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to the magnificent autumn spectacle when thousands of leaves transform into nature's grandest display.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Alleghany Mountains, Hawk Campground occupies a pristine pocket of Appalachian wilderness where weathered peaks and deep valleys tell the geological story of millions of years. The landscape showcases the region's characteristic ridges and hollows, with Hawk Creek carving its patient path through formations that have stood since time immemorial. Towering trees root themselves in mineral-rich mountain soil, while exposed rock faces and gentle slopes create a diverse terrain that captures the essence of this storied mountain range.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the sources.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, each featuring a pea gravel tent pad measuring 15x12 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies, with some campers noting that sites are too close together while others appreciated the secluded atmosphere.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from generators for a quieter experience. Carry bear spray and avoid sites with poison ivy. Bring your own water and dry firewood.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum allowed stay is 21 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest capacity not specified.
Groups
The campground includes a large group camping site. Specific guest limits or vehicle accommodation details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe site has 15 well-laid-out campsites including tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and a large group camping site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April through mid-January.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable since reservations are unavailable.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-serve, as reservations are not accepted. Users note that the campground fills up during weekends but thins out during weekdays.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations required; cancellation policies not applicable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Hawk Recreation Area provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The Tuscarora Trail offers hiking opportunities directly accessible from the campground, though one review notes it has been rerouted.
Hiking
The campground offers direct access to hiking trails such as the Tuscarora Trail, although user reviews state it has been rerouted. Trails are described as scenic and marked with colorful ribbons for navigation.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby streams, regulated by Virginia Fishing Regulations and Permits. Some campers suggest backcountry water filtering methods for stream water.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with trails offering rugged terrain suitable for adventure.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with users reporting sightings of bears and other wildlife. Precautions such as bear spray and air horns are recommended.Winter Activities
Some reviews describe the area as suitable for winter camping but mention challenges such as extreme cold and insects.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed. Bring your own firewood as down wood is scarce.
- Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes in spring and summer, stink bugs in late fall, poison ivy near campsites, and bears in the area. Users recommend carrying bear spray and avoiding the forest without caution.
Active alertsReviewers mention a posting at the campground stating the well is to be capped and all but one pit toilet closed. Some sites are described as overgrown, with maintenance issues.
Weather at Hawk Recreation Area
44
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services appear to be at Lee Ranger District Office in Edinburg, VA (14 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers are expected to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresHawk Creek runs near the campground, providing a soothing sound and clean water for backcountry filtering.
Common complaintsComplaints include mosquitoes and stink bugs during specific seasons, maintenance issues like rusty water pumps and overgrown sites, noisy generators, and the proximity of sites to each other.
Campground Map
102 Koontz St. Edinburg, VA 22824
Driving directionsFrom I-81: Take exit 296 and turn west on VA 55. Drive 14.5 miles and cross into West Virginia at top of mountain (VA 55 becomes WV 55). Descend for 1.0 mile and make a sharp right turn onto Forest Road 502 (gravel road). After 2.7 miles, turn left onto Forest Road 347. Camp entrance is on the right.
Gravel roads lead to the campground from the main paved road. Approximately 5 miles of decent gravel road is required to access the campground. Reviewers note the drive is beautiful, but warn to watch for other cars on narrow roads.Nearby places
Wardensville, WV (approx. 15 miles), Edinburg, VA (approx. 14 miles), Capon Springs, WV (distance not specified).
Nearby supplies
Wardensville, WV provides camping supplies with other essential shops. Capon Springs can be used for obtaining potable water.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
38 reviews
Hawk Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. Common themes include the campground's free status, rustic nature, and scenic surroundings. Complaints focus on the proximity of campsites, lack of maintenance, and issues with insects and noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and tent pads; scenic hiking trails; and the campground's peaceful and secluded setting.
Based on 38 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include mosquitoes and stink bugs during certain seasons, nearby noise from generators and airplanes, poor maintenance of facilities, proximity of sites, and occasional disruptive visitors.
Based on 38 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing your own water, firewood, and hand sanitizer. Wet wipes are suggested for using vault toilets. Campers should avoid summer for mosquitoes and late fall for stink bugs.
Based on 38 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall receive positive reviews for weather and scenery, but late fall brings stink bugs in large numbers. Summer is noted for mosquito issues, while winter camping may involve extreme cold...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wow! What a hidden gem. A FREE campsite with picnic tables, soft tent pads, toilets, fire pit, and shade." - Jakob Hawk Dennis
"The wonderfully chilly stainless steel seats in the privy substitute...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is recommended for its proximity to bathrooms and ideal layout. Site 12 is noted for having AT&T reception.
Based on 38 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet, as per federal regulations. "Very nice and peaceful. A plus is I get my phone service. AT&T. We will be back." - Carletta McClearen
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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