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Camping · Virginia

Matts Creek Trail Shelter

USFS · Camping Area · Free

Free

Fast facts

Cost
Free
Managed by
USFS
Type
Camping Area
Hours
Open 24 hours/day
Coordinates
37.5991, -79.4145
Last verified
September 18, 2026
37.5991° N · 79.4145° W
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Last verifiedSeptember 18, 2026

Is Matts Creek Trail Shelter free?

Yes. Matts Creek Trail Shelter is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.

How do I get to Matts Creek Trail Shelter?

From Lynchburg and other points south, take US 501 north. You will cross the James River near the Cushaw Reservoir, on the same bridge that trail users once had to use. Turn left at the north end of the bridge to continue on US 501. Trail parking will be on the left, just after State Route 812. Once parked, hike across the James River on the Foot Bridge. Follow the Appalachian National Scenic Trail upriver, approximately 1 mile. Dispersed camping is prohibited along this portion of trail. Follow the trail uphill as it ascends next to Matts Creek. The trail shelter is less than 1/2 mile up this drainage.

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Nearby

No other services within 50 mi on the record.

SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.

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Disclaimer TerrainKit is an independent product with no affiliation with, sponsorship from or endorsement by the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service or any other public agency. Site and access information is compiled from publicly available sources and can go out of date without notice. Confirm current rules, closures, fire restrictions and stay limits with the managing ranger district or field office before you camp.
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47.5053° N · 111.3008° W
Matts Creek Trail Shelter, Free Camping in Virginia - TerrainKit