How much does camping cost at Hawk Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Hawk Recreation Area range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

What is the best time to visit Hawk Recreation Area?

Hawk Recreation Area is open Not specified.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hawk Recreation Area?

Hawk Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Hawk Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Hawk Recreation Area: Campfires are allowed. Bring your own firewood as down wood is scarce.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Hawk Recreation Area have?

Hawk Recreation Area has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Hawk Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Hawk Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Hawk Recreation Area?

Hawk Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Hawk Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Hawk Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hawk Recreation Area

Q: Is Hawk Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Hawk Recreation Area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are first-come, first-serve, as reservations are not accepted. Users note that the campground fills up during weekends but thins out during weekdays.

4.22

81 reviews

102 Koontz St. Edinburg, VA 22824

Scenic Views

Featured in:Hiking Virginia

Quick Facts

1,417 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open from April thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,417 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open from April thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Hawk Recreation Area

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

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No fees are required for this site.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

540-984-4101

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Campground Map

102 Koontz St. Edinburg, VA 22824

Hawk Recreation Area

102 Koontz St. Edinburg, VA 22824

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.

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.

Weather at Hawk Recreation Area

Current alert: 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.

Best Time to Camp at Hawk Recreation Area

Fall delivers the best conditions, with daytime highs between 45 and 65°F and nights dropping to 25–40°F by late October. Leaf color peaks from late September through November, making this prime time for hiking and photography. Summer brings humidity and heavy mosquito activity near the creek. Late fall sees stink bug invasions in some years. Winter can be harsh at this elevation, with snow and freezing temperatures. Spring offers mild weather and wildflower blooms but can be damp. Hunting season runs through much of fall, so wear blaze orange on trails and check local dates.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall is best: leaf color peak, mild day temps and praised in reviews as prime season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April through mid-January.

About Hawk Recreation Area

Hawk Recreation Area offers 15 free primitive sites in the Alleghany Mountains, with direct access to the Tuscarora Trail. Each site includes a 15x12-foot pea gravel tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring. The campground sits at 1,417 feet along Hawk Creek, drawing hikers, hunters, and campers seeking rustic national forest camping without fees or reservations.

Hawk Campground offers primitive camping with options for tents and RVs. Sites are first-come, first-served, and free of charge.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions, with daytime highs between 45 and 65°F and nights dropping to 25–40°F by late October. Leaf color peaks from late September through November, making this prime time for hiking and photography. Summer brings humidity and heavy mosquito activity near the creek. Late fall sees stink bug invasions in some years. Winter can be harsh at this elevation, with snow and freezing temperatures. Spring offers mild weather and wildflower blooms but can be damp. Hunting season runs through much of fall, so wear blaze orange on trails and check local dates.

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 SceneryHawk Creek runs through the campground, carving through characteristic Appalachian ridges and hollows. Hardwood forest covers the slopes, creating dense canopy in most areas. The terrain varies from gentle creek-side flats to steeper slopes, with exposed rock faces visible on surrounding ridges. Fall transforms the forest into layers of red, gold, and amber across the mountains. Wildflowers appear in spring along the forest floor and trail edges.

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.

Scenic ViewsScenic mountain views and wildflower trails are highlights. Hawk Creek adds to the serene atmosphere.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not provide hotel-style lodging accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutFifteen sites spread along the campground, each with a 15x12-foot pea gravel tent pad. A large group site accommodates bigger parties. Site spacing is inconsistent: some campers report cramped quarters while others found adequate privacy. Vault toilets serve the area, though maintenance has been spotty according to reviews.

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.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the sources.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, each featuring a pea gravel tent pad measuring 15x12 feet.

PrivacyPrivacy varies, with some campers noting that sites are too close together while others appreciated the secluded atmosphere.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose 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 CampsitesSite 7 gets recommended for its layout and proximity to vault toilets. Site 12 has reliable AT&T cell service, though T-Mobile and Verizon don't work for most campers. Reviews mention that site spacing varies, with some positioned too close together while others feel more secluded.

Amenities available

The Hawk Recreation Area offers a primitive camping experience nestled in the Alleghany Mountains. Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. According to authoritative sources and user reviews, potable water is not available, so campers are advised to bring their own. The campground does not have showers, electricity hookups, or Wi-Fi. Vault toilets are available, and while some reviewers found them clean, others described them as 'rough.' Sites feature pea gravel tent pads measuring 15x12 feet, fire pits with adjustable grills, and picnic tables at each site. There are no trash or recycling facilities, so 'pack-in, pack-out' principles apply.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential 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.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed. Bring your own firewood as down wood is scarce.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services appear to be at Lee Ranger District Office in Edinburg, VA (14 miles away).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers are expected to pack out all trash.

Water FeaturesHawk Creek runs near the campground, providing a soothing sound and clean water for backcountry filtering.

Cell CoverageCell phone service varies by provider, with some users reporting strong AT&T signals and others stating that T-Mobile and Verizon did not work.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.2

81 reviews

Satisfactory

Hawk Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 81 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 81 reviews.

Site 7Mentioned
Site 7 is recommended for its proximity to bathrooms and ideal layout.
Site 12Mentioned
Site 12 is noted for having AT&T reception.

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 81 reviews

Common 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 81 reviews

Pro 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 81 reviews

Seasonal 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 81 reviews

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 81 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews.

Based on 81 reviews

Pet-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 81 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Fall hikers and hunters who self-supply everything will get the most out of this place. Leaf color peaks late September through November, the Tuscarora Trail starts here, and site 12 has AT&T signal if you need it. Hard to argue with free.

Skip if

No potable water is the dealbreaker for most campers, and a posted notice warns the well is being capped with nearly all pit toilets closing. Summer adds heavy mosquitoes near the creek. Anyone needing maintained facilities should look elsewhere in the Lee Ranger District.

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Campgrounds

Hawk Recreation Area

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Hawk Recreation Area sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Hawk Campground sits nestled in the Alleghany Mountains surround by a spectacular nature setting. Experience an exciting hiking experience with easy access to the Tuscarora Trail right from the campground. In the fall, this inviting location offers hunters a secluded environment to stay overnight. Fall asleep to the mellow sounds of the trees gently swaying overhead and the simple harmony of nearby crickets.</p>

Open Season: Late April through mid-December