Creeping Thyme Forest

95%

56 reviews

· Abingdon, Washington, Virginia · 75 acres

Hosted by David M.

3 RV/tent sites

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

David is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Off-leash friendly

Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.

Primitive, open, country road camping. (Primitive means there is nothing at the campsites except a space to camp. Open means you can camp anywhere on the land that is available. Country road means you might hear cars or trucks go by, but it is not a heavily traveled road.) Nestled between small mountain ranges, on a south-facing slope. Adjacent to mountain stream. Fishing pond. Wooded and open sites available. Rough gravel road loops around camping areas. Generally a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, unless you feel adventurous. Some campers have noted dogs barking at night. The campsites are roughly mown a few times per year--not like your lawn. Prior camping experience recommended. We are close to a Volunteer Fire Department--if there is an emergency (rare), you may hear sirens. Bathroom with hot showers and flush toilet.Primitive, private, and beautiful open camping. We have 100+ acres of mostly-wooded land nestled between two mountain ranges in the Appalachian mountains, on a south-facing slope of about 5 degrees. There are some open fields for camping, and plenty of firewood that can be freely gathered. PLEASE NOTE: You will NOT be able to reach all camping areas if you have a low clearance compact vehicle!! However there are areas to camp that are more accessible—slightly less scenic. Some adventurous campers have made it with a Prius so if you are adventurous... NOTE: If you're not sure what "primitive" means, contact me first. A simple bathroom with sink, toilet, shower and hot water. A water spigot is available in multiple spots with municipal water source. Campers can choose from a variety of locations to pitch a tent in the open areas, or explore the woods (if they can find a flat, non-rocky location for tent!). There are many isolated spots from which you won't be able to see any other homes. Generally, it is very quiet except for wildlife, and the stars are bright on a moonless night. There are some trails throughout our land and a mountain stream to explore. There are several popular trailheads nearby: including The Channels (voted best hike in Virginia) about 30 minutes away. A country kitchen is down the road about 5 miles. You can gather firewood from any fallen trees, from the sawmill scrap pile, or if you want to stop by our house, we will give you some split firewood for free.

RV details

Caravans, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Trailer tents, Campervans, and Cars allowed

Vehicles under 13 meters allowed

There is a large gravel parking area that can be used to turn around.

Pull-in unit

There is a large gravel parking area that can be used to turn around.

Accommodates slideouts

There is a large gravel parking area that can be used to turn around.

Surface type: Loose gravel

Surface levelness: Requires levelling

No Motorhome, Campervan, and Class C (larger motorhome with overcab space)

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

There is a water spigot available to campers but not at the campsites.

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

Camping area selected or assigned upon arrival.

4 guests max per site

Campfires allowed

Firewood provided, firepit, private

Toilet available

Flush toilet, pit toilet

Pets allowed

Off leash

Drinking water available

Spigot

Showers available

Hot water

Pack it out

Cooking equipment absent

Picnic table absent

No wifi

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 12:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy: Flexible

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

4WD required

During your trip

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

95% Recommend68 ratings · 56 reviews

This campsite offers a variety of experiences, from the soothing sounds of a nearby stream to the wide-open spaces ideal for stargazing. Many campers appreciate the beautiful land and the option to choose their own camping spot, whether by a pond or in a secluded area. However, some visitors noted that the site can feel less isolated due to nearby traffic and occasional noise from barking dogs. Despite these minor drawbacks, the site is well-maintained and hosts are responsive and helpful.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent

It has a nice steam at the back of the property, and well maintained roads and camping areas.

Michelle E.

1 month on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

12 m pop-up camper

Good spot to camp. We didn’t use any of the amenities, just boondocked it. Great little stream running down the side of the area made for a relaxing afternoon.

Christopher G.

8 months on Hipcamp

Not recommend

· March 2025

Felt like a back yard camp.

Tent · With pets

The area was very nice and the host was great at communication. I was under the impression there was a trail that lead up the mountain by the first picture and found out it was a private trail which was a bummer. Unless it was private to that area and we had the ability to go on it but no information was given on it nor could we find it on any hiking maps for the area. The camp sites are in great condition just felt like I was camping in a friends back yard type. You hear traffic from the roads, sirens from another direction from maybe an accident dogs barking all night long. It just wasn’t what I was expecting to be out in a primitive camp site. But it was still a good place if you needed to bed down and wanted to be close to stores etc. the property says it’s 75 acres but we walked the property lines seeing if we could find the trail head. You are going n a cow fenced area.

Richard B.

3 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2025

3 m travel trailer

We stayed near the pond and felt it was far enough away from the neighbors to feel private. The bathroom had a wall heater that came in handy in March weather and there's a hot water shower. It checked all the boxes and I would stop in for a night in the future.

J J M.

5 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Simple & beautiful camping

Tent

David was super helpful and friendly. It seems he is passionate about sharing his love of camping with others. The land is beautiful. It is primitive camping so obviously be prepared for that sort of thing. The road is sort of rough but we were able to take a compact Prius. If you’re the adventurous type, it’s really not a big deal at all. The clearings are perfect for stargazing!

Hailey L.

8 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

Beautiful land! The host is also very helpful and nice.

Jesse J.

8 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

For myself, personally, absolutely one of the best camp sites. Remote in a way I love but last minute forgotten stuff is close. Love what is offered with no expectations and just appreciate the area.

Jason G.

14 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Great place to go get away from the world for a few days. David is helpful and accommodating and keeps a good supply of wood for your fire, which was a big plus for me.

Kyle W.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Creeping wasn’t creepy

Tent

I had a great night at Creeping Thyme. Just make sure you understand what primitive means. I didn’t try the shower but the toilet was nice. David was very helpful, just make sure you believe what he says. For example, the road around the campground is somewhat rugged. I have an Outback and did okay. One tip. He sends a map via email. Download the map before arriving. I assumed I could get to my email once I got there but I couldn’t. So I had to find my site by memory since the email wouldn’t load. But, maybe I was lucky, I was able to camp out with a campfire and get no bug bites. 😂

Mike H.

3 reviews

Mixed feelings

· August 2024

As described

Tent · With pets

Creeping Thyme is as described. We camped above the pond on a “mowed” lot indicated by the host. Dogs were happy to roam; I was happy to not have to worry about close neighbors. It was a bit warm for tent camping, so only stayed 1 night.

Lisa G.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With pets

Land was beautiful and campsites were private. Would visit again.

Alana B.

4 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· July 2024

Not as advertised

3 m campervan · With kids

We had to pick up a lot of trash from our campsite along with wood containing nails. Otherwise quiet.

Eric B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

The land is beautiful with a lot of good spots and I liked being able to choose my own spot. Set up right by the creek and had a nice evening view of the fog between the mountains, shared the creek with two turtles and saw lots of rabbits on the land.

Chelsea O.

9 reviews

Recommends

· June 2024

Tent · Group trip

I loved camping here! It was a peaceful, quiet and secluded spot we chose that was nice and flat. We were able to get to the Channels hike that is nearby in about a 25 minute drive.

Heather B.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

6 m campervan

My boyfriend and I are on a road trip and decided to stay at David’s camp ground for two nights and really enjoyed our time. Perfect spot to hangout. It rained a little during our trip so our wood got wet but he was kind enough to let us use some of his dry firewood.

Logan D.

3 reviews

Recommends

· April 2024

5 m car

Absolutely stunning! We were in the area for the night to do the entire VCT the next day and this spot was perfect! Already planning our next trip out! Thank you!!

Sadie C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

Tent

Had a great stay on David’s land, Very quiet, the creek was pleasant

Tyler O.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2024

5 m car

very primitive camping. Location is exactly as described -extremely convenient to main highways- Thank you for the Wi-Fi. It was of great assistance when planning/ needing to access weather and Maps. Thank you so much David

Lee C.

38 reviews

Recommends

· April 2024

A beautiful and quiet spot

Tent

We would absolutely stay again. Pleasant views all around. David provided us with lots of information about the sites. We didn’t have trouble finding anything or setting up in the dark. The ground was good for stakes, even in wet weather.

Dan M.

3 reviews

Mixed feelings

· March 2024

6 m travel trailer

The host was quick to respond. Very generous and accommodating. I cannot give a great review because of the INCESSANT BARKING of neighborhood dogs. It was day and night. It wasnt just one dog but MANY. Maybe there's a sled dog team located nearby or a dog shelter of some kind. Regardless, it was unpleasant.

Ellen H.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2024

Starstruck!

5 m car

The site was convenient for my travel plans, and I appreciated being able to grab a shower before I hit the road in the morning. David was very responsive to my questions and even offered firewood! The stars from the site were absolutely amazing!

Cathy O.

3 reviews

Recommends

· March 2024

Great Experience!

5 m car

We chose a spot right by the creek and it was extraordinary. There was plenty of wood around. The camping area is well maintained and grass is low. As David mentions, you need a 4x4 car to drive around, it didn’t rain during our stay but certainly challenging.

Raul R.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2024

Tent

We loved tent camping at on David’s land! The creek was nearby our location which was a nice source of water to cook our meals! It was raining when we arrived in site and the terrain is super tough and rocky. Just something to be mindful of but other than that our stay was excellent.

Olivia P.

4 reviews

Recommends

· October 2023

Tent

My friend and I met up here to have a relaxing camping experience. David was very quick to respond and was very helpful regarding directions, location of various camping sites, and firewood. We would definitely love to visit this beautiful area again! Would highly recommend.

David W.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

Peaceful Stay full of Fall Color

4 m travel trailer

We had an amazing stay at Creeping Thyme. We were looking for a quick fall getaway with convenient location near The Great Channels hike. Arrived in the rain, so wood at the site was very saturated and not fire-worthy, but David checked in on us shortly after our arrival and brought us dry wood so that we were able to get a campfire going. About 25 minutes from the site to the trail head for the Great Channels, so an easy trek there and back. Beautiful views of the fall colors around the area from the site.

Lisa H.

3 reviews

Recommends

· October 2023

Great experience!

4 m pop-up camper · With pets

Nice secluded camp near Abingdon, VA and The Channels. Super basic but with beautiful views and very quiet. Requires a good clearance four wheel drive vehicle to get around the camp/property! Would happily stay here again!

Sanja A.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

Great camping near Abington

Tent

Great camping site on a beautiful property near Abington. Owner was extremely helpful. Make sure you see which spots are open because there are some that are better than others. Ours had a great view but some are tucked back in the woods so just something to check. Overall wonderful experience and we would return.

Kyle O.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

For a relaxing camp

Tent

I loved roof top tent camping on David's land! Hearing the working farm during the day was relaxing. The beautiful property offers many camp sites locations, as well as a bath house with hot water, shower, toilet, sink!! We look forward to returning with a chainsaw....the free cut wood is too big for a campfire and the fallen wood was either rotten or too big as well.

Addison M.

3 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

5 m travel trailer · With pets

Fantastic stay! Quiet, clean, and very private. We really enjoyed listening to the birds and coyotes. The campsites are truly remote, so do heed the advice on type of trailer and vehicle! Also, be sure to fill up your fresh tank at the buildings at the entrance, as there is not an easy way to go back down once you find your spot for the night. Fantastic views, would love to come back and stay longer!

Sara N.

4 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

Camping with a sedan

Tent

I loved tent camping on David’s land! There was a friendly black cat who greeted us, but wasn’t too pushy and gave space as well. The fireflies were magical in the third week of June, and we made a fire to roast hotdogs and marshmallows. We caught a little bit of rain, but it was still really nice. There were some wildflowers and beautiful trees. The bathroom was perfectly adequate, with a toilet, shower, and some cleaning supplies :) We came in a vehicle with low ground clearance and there was a place that we could reach. Overall, if you’re looking for a place to camp in the Abingdon area, located about half an hour from The Great Channels of Virginia, I’d wholeheartedly recommend Creeping Thyme Forest. It felt as comfortable as camping in my own backyard. Thanks for everything, David!

Ruth P.

2 years on Hipcamp