How much does camping cost at Walnut Flats Campground?

Camping fees at Walnut Flats Campground 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 Walnut Flats Campground?

Walnut Flats Campground is open null. 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 Walnut Flats Campground?

Walnut Flats Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Walnut Flats Campground?

Fire policies at Walnut Flats Campground: Fire rings are provided at each site, and campfires are permitted.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Walnut Flats Campground have?

Walnut Flats Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Walnut Flats Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Walnut Flats Campground. 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 Walnut Flats Campground?

Walnut Flats Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Walnut Flats Campground?

Popular activities at Walnut Flats Campground include Hiking, Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Walnut Flats Campground

Q: Is Walnut Flats Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Walnut Flats Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First-come-first-serve camping for all sites. User reviews suggest fill patterns vary: 'Five camping spots and two bathrooms'.

4.08

45 reviews

null

Pet FriendlyPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Virginia

Quick Facts

2,484 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 5% in state

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,484 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 5% in state

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Walnut Flats Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees required for campsite use.

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

540-552-4641null

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Walnut Flats Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

null

Walnut Flats Campground

null

Nearby places

Blacksburg, VA (20 miles)

Pearisburg, VA (approximately 10 miles from SR 100)

other nearby cities are null

Nearby supplies

Trent's Grocery is approximately 5 miles away, as noted in user reviews. Gas stations and stores are reportedly nearby, one reviewer stated: 'Stores are close enough.'

Driving directionsFrom Blacksburg, VA: Follow US 460 west for 20 miles until you reach the 2nd Pearisburg exit. Follow SR 100 for 10 miles to SR 42. Follow Rt. 42 for 10 miles. Turn right on SR 606. Go 1 mile; turn right onto SR 201 just past the store. Go about 2.5 miles and the campground is on the left.

The campground is accessible via gravel roads as described in user reviews, but accessibility for trailers may be challenging. 'Easily accessible for normal vehicles; up a gravel road.'

Weather at Walnut Flats Campground

Best Time to Camp at Walnut Flats Campground

Fall delivers the best conditions here. Mid-September through October brings daytime highs around 50–65°F and nights dipping into the 30s–40s, with brilliant reds and golds lighting up the canopy. Weekdays stay pleasantly quiet even during peak color, though hunters use the area and weekend crowds spike. Spring offers crisp mornings for hiking. Summer gets humid at this elevation, and winter brings occasional snow and frosty mornings that require a warm sleeping bag.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall described as best: mid-Sept–Oct temps ideal and 'Fall color here was fantastic.'

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 to December 7.

About Walnut Flats Campground

Walnut Flats Campground sits at 2,484 feet in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, offering free primitive camping with vault toilets and fire rings. The campground has just 5 sites tucked in a shaded clearing near Dismal Creek, making it a quiet base for exploring the Flat Top Mountain Trail System, the Appalachian Trail, and the Falls of Dismal. Expect basic amenities and no potable water on-site.

Walnut Flats Campground is a small, primitive campground catering primarily to tent campers and small RVs. It also offers a group campsite accommodating larger groups.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions here. Mid-September through October brings daytime highs around 50–65°F and nights dipping into the 30s–40s, with brilliant reds and golds lighting up the canopy. Weekdays stay pleasantly quiet even during peak color, though hunters use the area and weekend crowds spike. Spring offers crisp mornings for hiking. Summer gets humid at this elevation, and winter brings occasional snow and frosty mornings that require a warm sleeping bag.

ElevationNestled within the vast expanse of the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, this mountain campground offers the refreshing air and cooler temperatures characteristic of Virginia's highland regions.

Natural Features and SceneryOld-growth Appalachian forest surrounds the campground, with tall hardwoods creating dense shade over the sites. Dismal Creek flows nearby, providing a constant water soundtrack and solid trout fishing opportunities. The Falls of Dismal cascade over time-worn rock formations a short hike away, drawing photographers and day hikers. Clear night skies offer good stargazing when weather cooperates. The forested setting feels secluded despite the campground's proximity to trails.

Geological RegionSet within the ancient Appalachian Mountains in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Walnut Flats sits at the crossroads of outdoor adventure. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, with the iconic Flat Top Mountain Trail System and the world-famous Appalachian Trail providing gateways to exploration. The mystically named Dismal Creek winds through the valley below, while the Falls of Dismal cascade through time-worn rock formations, creating one of the region's most photographed natural attractions.

Scenic ViewsDescribed as scenic with colorful fall foliage by users: 'The Fall color here was fantastic' and 'Clear skies to star gaze.'

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not include hotel-style lodging or accommodations, as it is a primitive campground.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

14 days maximum as mentioned in user reviews.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

The campground has one group site, described in user reviews as accommodating larger groups. Site #2 is a double area with 'lots of room.'

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutFive sites cluster around a grassy opening in the forest. Shade is plentiful. The small site count keeps things quiet, but it also means you might arrive to find everything occupied. Some users have mentioned disputes over site access when the campground fills up.

Reservation Platformsnull

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve camping for all sites. User reviews suggest fill patterns vary: 'Five camping spots and two bathrooms'.

Cancellation Policynull

Site SizeThe sites appear standard in size, with one user specifying that campsite #2 is a 'double area with lots of room.

PrivacyThe campground offers a quiet and peaceful setting, as noted in user reviews. Privacy levels between sites are not explicitly described.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose site #2 for more space and site #1 for proximity to the water pump.

Best CampsitesSite #2 is a double area with lots of room, making it the best choice for groups or campers who want extra space. Site #1 sits near the water pump, which is handy but doesn't provide safe drinking water according to users.

Amenities available

Walnut Flats Campground is a primitive site ideal for tent camping and small RVs, with shaded sites clustered around a grassy opening and surrounded by forest. However, it lacks some modern amenities such as potable water. User reviews confirm that the campground offers essential facilities like vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. A review mentions 'Water pump has safe water for drinking,' and another notes, 'Bathrooms we're clean and stocked.' However, some users point out issues, such as one stating, 'Stinky volt toilets.'

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Walnut Flats Campground include hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Its proximity to notable trails and natural attractions enhances its appeal.

Hiking

Fishing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo direct hazards reported, though one user review mentions concerns about safety: 'Some guys yelling at me to get off the mountain.' Possible wildlife hazards due to proximity to forest and trails.

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Vault toilets are the only restroom facilities mentioned.

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 PolicyFire rings are provided at each site, and campfires are permitted.

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

Emergency ServicesEastern Divide Ranger District Office, 110 Southpark Drive Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-552-4641 (Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM).

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities include bear-proof garbage cans, as mentioned in user reviews.

Water FeaturesClose to Dismal Creek, a stocked trout stream, and the Falls of Dismal. Hand pump available for drinking water.

Camp HostForest Service rangers reportedly monitor the campground multiple times a day according to one review: 'Rangers came and went a few times each day.'

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is not mentioned in the provided information sources.

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

Rate Walnut Flats Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.1

45 reviews

Satisfactory

Walnut Flats Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed but generally positive, with an emphasis on the campground's peaceful atmosphere, free access, and proximity to natural attractions. Common themes include the quiet environment and essential amenities such as vault toilets and fire pits.

Review Summaries

Based on 45 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the peaceful and quiet atmosphere, free access, clean vault toilets, and proximity to trails and natural features like Dismal Falls. One user notes, 'Beautiful and totally free!'...

Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users have reported issues with long-term stays by others, making it difficult to find available spots. One review mentions, 'All spots look taken up anyways.' Another user recounts safety...

Based on 45 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #2 is mentioned as a double area with ample space. Reviews generally highlight the small number of sites (4 designated, with one group site) as a limitation but also contributing to the...

Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend the campground for segment hiking on the Appalachian Trail and visiting Dismal Falls. One user advises, 'Great location to base camp and then segment hike the AT.' Another suggests...

Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highlighted as particularly appealing seasons for camping due to favorable weather and scenic beauty. One user notes the 'Fall color here was fantastic.'

Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great little free campground.' 2. 'Bathrooms we're clean and stocked.' 3. 'Free campsite and great place to be off the grid.'

Based on 45 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were provided.

Based on 45 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and several users mention bringing their dogs. One review notes, 'Me, my husband and our 2 dogs had a great picnic.'

Based on 45 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

AT segment hikers and trout anglers get the most out of this place. Dismal Creek is stocked, the Falls of Dismal are a short walk, and fall color here is genuinely worth the trip. Site 2 is a double-wide if you need room to spread out.

Skip if

Five first-come-first-served sites means real odds of driving out to find nothing available, long-term campers occupying spots is a recurring complaint. No potable water on-site, so bring everything you'll drink.

Nearby Campgrounds

4.6

(67)

D Campground

Claytor Lake State Park

D Campground sits in Claytor Lake State Park at 1,939 feet elevation, offering electric and water hookups along with access to the park's sandy swim beach, boat launches, and trail system. The campground hosts 67 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. Sites vary from spacious back-ins and pull-throughs to closer-set spots with limited privacy, and I-81 highway noise carries into camp at night.

Boley Field Group Campground

4145 Straley Valley, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24060

Boley Field Group Campground sits in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest foothills near Blacksburg, managed by the Eastern Divide Ranger District. This primitive group site occupies a large open meadow ideal for gatherings, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Anglers fish nearby waters, and the Poverty Creek Trail System offers hiking access from the campground.

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

109 Krenning Road, Wytheville, VA 24382, USA

Stony Fork Cabin sits in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest foothills near Wytheville, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals along a creek, with access to Appalachian ridge trails and the Big Walker Scenic Byway. Reviewers praise the secluded sites and creek setting, though some bathhouses show age.

$65.00 - $65.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.3

(532)

Stony Fork Campground

109 Krenning Road, Wytheville, VA, 24382

Stony Fork Campground sits in the foothills of Big Walker Mountain within George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, near Wytheville. Operated by the National Forest Service, this mid-sized campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, primitive options, and cabins along a creek that runs through the property. Visitors fish, bike forest roads, and watch for wildlife while enjoying spacious, wooded sites with electric and water hookups.

$20.00 - $30.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.6

(54)

New River Trail State Park Campground

null

New River Trail State Park Campground sits along the New River at the Millrace area, a walk-in tent-only setup with 10 sites right on the water. The campground is attached to the 57-mile rail-trail that follows the river's north-flowing path through riparian forest and old railroad cuts. Sites are accessed by cart from the parking lot, with a camp store and canoe/bike livery nearby. Maximum occupancy is 6 people per site.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campgrounds you may also like

Frequently Visited

4.5

(186)

Backbone Rock Campground

9941 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN, 37688

Backbone Rock Campground sits in the Cherokee National Forest foothills near Shady Valley, Tennessee, at 2,100 feet elevation. This small Forest Service campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites along a clear trout stream, with flush toilets and potable water but no showers. Guests come for fall foliage hikes, creek fishing, and wildlife viewing on the Backbone Rock Trail.

$10.00 - $20.00 / night

Less Visited

3.4

(31)

White Rocks Campground

110 Southpark Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060

White Rocks sits at 3,000 feet in George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, 11 miles from the nearest cell signal. The 47 primitive and tent sites spread across two loops run $4–15 per night and offer well-spaced, secluded camping near both the Appalachian Trail and Mountain Lake Wilderness. Reviewers consistently mention the quiet and affordability, though maintenance can be spotty.

$4.00 - $15.00 / night

Highly Popular

3.7

(274)

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area

756 Twin Ridge Drive

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area sits on Lake Moomaw in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest near Warm Springs. This U.S. Forest Service campground offers electric and water hookups, showers, and a dump station across a sprawling foothill setting. Campers come for lake access, with swimming, boating, and fishing drawing crowds in summer alongside miles of forest trails.

$16.00 - $85.00 / night

Campgrounds

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Walnut Flats Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Walnut Flats Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>This small, primitive campground is well suited for tent camping but also accommodates small recreation vehicles. It has shaded sites clustered around a grassy opening surrounded by forest. Flat Top Mountain Trail System, the Appalachian Trail, Dismal Creek (a stocked trout stream), and the Falls of Dismal are close by.</p>

Open Season: April 1 – December 7