>>1330243National forests usually have free camping sites in particular areas. They're off the beaten path, first come first serve, and usually have hiking trails, swimming holes, and fishing nearby.
I live right in the heart of the AT (Shenandoah Valley) and I avoid it like the plague, but for a beginner, it's the best thing for them.
Over the past 6 years, I've pretty much stayed in the North River district for dispersed camping. Plenty of fishing, swimming holes in streams, hunting, and solitude. The only time it's ever busy is around 4th of July when all the inbreds come to the free campsites, or when the lakes have free/kids day events. But there's dirt roads that lead all the way to WV. I've gotten lost once driving around in my old Corolla and almost got stuck. I came in through the Braley Pond way past Churchville and somehow after 9 hours and 3 quarters of a tank, came out to civilization north of Harrisonburg. I went there to fish but the lakes were flooded so went for a drive. Found all sorts of dirt trails and I'm pretty sure I spotted the biggest Coyote I ever seen. Bastard was as fat as a bear cub.
