North River Campground

Open — Open seasonally from early March through late December. Operates first-come, first-served with no advance reservations.

About

North River Campground is a historic open area campground originally constructed as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the 1930s. Evidence of the original sites and logging trails still remain today, offering a glimpse into the past. Located in George Washington National Forest in Augusta County, Virginia, the campground features 9 primitive campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. The campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the North River Gorge, a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, featuring a scenic swinging bridge spanning the North River. The area offers close proximity to the Wild Oak National Recreation Trail, Stanton Dam Day Use Area, and Elkhorn Lake, providing diverse recreational opportunities within just a few miles. The North River is a stocked trout stream, making it ideal for anglers. This is a no-frills, primitive camping experience with vault toilets but no potable water available on-site. Campers must bring their own water. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations, offering an affordable camping option at $5 per night. The remote location on Forest Service roads provides a peaceful setting for those seeking a quiet escape in the Appalachian forests.

Directions

From Staunton, follow U.S. 250 west to Churchville. Continue west on U.S. 250 for 10 miles past Churchville and turn right onto State Route 715. This road turns into Forest Development Road 96. Follow S.R. 715/FDR 96 for 8.5 miles to FDR 95 and turn right. Follow FDR 95 2.1 miles to the intersection with FDR 958 and turn right. North River Campground is one mile on the left.

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