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Mountaintop Utopia

88%
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· Big Island, Bedford, Virginia
7 acres hosted by Michael O.
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This is one of only a few pieces of private property that border National Forest lands. The scenery, hiking, and hunting are all great in this area. A short walk will get you on and off the Appalachian Trail and even up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is a country store with basic provisions just a few miles down the road. Learn more about this land: You can set up camp right next to the National Forest. This property borders the National Forest and is ideal for AT hikers or those just looking for a private camping spot without any traffic or other people nearby. The property is several acres and is covered with mature hardwoods, fir and mountain laurel that provide nice privacy. There is a nice level area cleared in the middle with plenty of space for multiple tents. Enjoy a campfire and cook over it if you like. There is a store just a few miles from this property if you needed to get additional provisions. If I am in town and available I am happy to assist.  Great hiking and things to see in Bedford.
Activities
Biking
Hiking
Wildlife watching
Natural features
Forest
Mountainous
Not currently accepting bookings
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88%
16 ratings · 9 reviews
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Franco L.doesn't recommend
July 5, 2020
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
Not for glampers
Michael’s directions were pretty accurate, but would caution that there is a decent length of gravel road up some steep hills before arriving at the site. Therefore, would recommend a 4x4 or similar vehicle. There is also limited cell service FYI so make sure to load a map first! In general, we didn’t hate our experience frankly, but we didn’t love it either. Here are our reasons: 1 - The site seemed pretty unkept. Right next to the campfire was a large box (probably a toilet?) laid horizontally, with a massive blue tarp over it. Certainly a bit strange. 2 - Sitting by the campfire was unsettling, because right next to the fire pit was a wasp/bee hive, and there were several dead rats in a hole next to the pit. I get it though, it’s nature. 3 - If anything, the plastic boxes that housed the utensils were a bit clumsy. They were also consumed by nature (lots of spiders!), and one of the covers fell off - so there was some pooling water and salt(?) on the floor. We didn’t really care though because we had our own tools anyway. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend the site for glampers but if you’re a through-hiker, or just looking for a night to crash on a road trip (like us) this site isn’t any different than what you’d get in backcountry - though at times it felt like someone’s backyard!
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Kyra S.recommends
June 7, 2020
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
This spot is a gem in Southern VA! It’s way up in the mountains so you’re pretty secluded, and you get a nice amount of land to set up camp. There is already a huge fire pit waiting with two chairs for you to use. There is a ton of space to set up a table, hammock, tent, and more. It was a really great night of camping and it is close to Sharp Top Mountain which is definitely worth the hike. The entryway to the campsite is a bit rocky so I would be careful driving there.
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Ben S.recommends
May 28, 2020
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
Very private, nice campsite
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Eric B.recommends
October 9, 2019
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
Michael was very quick to respond and the site was exactly as described. Enjoyed it very much!
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Emery M.doesn't recommend
July 18, 2019
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
This sight is beautiful and remote. The hammock and the swing were lovely and the fire pit was well maintained but the kitchen supplies were dirty and left in a giant bin with several mice living in it. We had our own cooking supplies so it didn't effect us but I don't think it should be advertised as having a kitchen. Otherwise, its RIGHT off the Blue Ridge Parkway and very convenient if you're traveling that way.
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Katy Q.recommends
July 8, 2019
Peaceful Seclusion just off AT
Quiet Campsite Off the Beaten Path
This campsite is perfect if you are looking for a quiet place off the beaten path. We drove in by car and got settled in the early evening. There are a lot of supplies (kitchen gear, candles, etc) located in large containers for your use, along with chairs and a big beautiful fire pit. We saw many fireflies and heard owls in the distance. Michael was very communicative and gave us some recommendations for places to grab food and a drink. (Keep in mind it's a bit of a drive to town; about 25 mins). Thanks for a great stay, Michael!
Location
Big Island, Bedford, Virginia, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Monacan, Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), and Occaneechi First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Michael O.

Joined in October 2017
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