Camping between Dragon's Tooth and VA 311

[Berserker]

Anyone have any info, experience and/or comments on pre-existing camp sites in this area? From the map it looks fairly non-descript crossing a couple of roads with water access in maybe 2 spots. Thanks in advance.

[CalebJ]

There are some camping areas around Sawtooth Ridge, but that's barely a mile from 311. I can't remember what's further south off the top of my head.

[Walkintom]

The operator of the Four Pines Hostel was allowing folks to camp out back of his place when we went through in 2013. Nice guy, operates the hostel off of donations.

It's just an old garage converted into hiker use but it had a few cots around, a wood stove, a shower and electricity. We were pretty happy there.

[Southerner]

There is a pretty well-used campsite at Lost Spectacles Gap (intersection of the AT / Dragon's Tooth Trail leading to the parking lot), but no water. In the last couple of seasons, there has been an active bear in the area, so hang food for sure at that campsite.

There are a couple of very small campsites on the rocky and rugged ridge of Cove Mtn. (locally known as Rowdie's Rest), but no water there, either.

There is a campsite where the Boy Scout Trail and Dragon's Tooth Trail intersect, which is a short hike from the AT using the Boy Scout Trail. It is right beside the stream that drains the hollow that the Dragon's Tooth Trail climbs. You may want to check the USFS website in case of special regulations in the area to ensure it is a legal spot (though it is a well-used spot, legal or not).

From Va. 624 to Va. 311, however, the trail passes over a narrow right-of-way across private property. You will notice a few possible campsites, such as the ridge just trail-south of Va. 311. However, you would be very close to the trail, and I would be very dubious of the legality. It is probably best to avoid camping from Va. 624 - Va. 311, especially with Johns Spring Shelter (old Boy Scout Shelter site) a mile trail-north of Va. 311 and Catawba Mtn. Shelter / Campsite at 2.2 miles. You may consider seeing if you could camp at Four Pines Hostel if you really want to camp in this section.

[scrabbler]

If you continue south just past Dragon's Tooth there are a few campsites not far, maybe half mile or so on the left.