4-Mile Campsite (Appalachian Trail)

For those living in the Northern Virginia region, the Appalachian Trail (AT) represents more than just a long-distance footpath; it is a backyard gateway to some of the most serene landscapes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Among the various resting spots that dot the Virginia section of the trail is the 4-Mile Campsite. Located near Purcellville in Loudoun County, this campsite serves as a essential waypoint for backpackers, section hikers, and local families looking to experience the quiet beauty of the woods. For Virginia residents, it offers a manageable and scenic escape that highlights the rugged yet accessible nature of our local outdoor spaces.

The 4-Mile Campsite is a primitive camping area designated for those traveling along the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. Unlike many of the more developed state park campgrounds in the Commonwealth, this site is designed to provide a "back-to-basics" experience. It is specifically favored by those who appreciate the silence of the forest and the simplicity of a clear, flat space to pitch a tent. For many locals, a trek to 4-Mile is a rite of passage, offering a taste of the "Roller Coaster" section of the AT—a stretch known for its frequent elevation changes—while still providing a peaceful place to recover at the end of the day.

The location of 4-Mile Campsite is strategically significant for those navigating the Northern Virginia corridor of the AT. Situated approximately four miles south of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, it sits just inside the Virginia state line on Appalachian Lane in Purcellville. This positioning makes it one of the first major campsites encountered by "southbound" hikers entering Virginia and one of the final stops for those heading north toward the Potomac River. The site is nestled on a ridge that offers glimpses of the Loudoun Valley through the trees, particularly during the late-fall and winter months when the foliage has thinned.

Accessibility at 4-Mile Campsite is strictly tailored toward non-motorized travel. While the address is listed in Purcellville, the site itself is located directly on the trail and is not accessible by traditional road vehicles. Hikers typically access the site by parking at nearby trailheads such as Keys Gap or Harpers Ferry and making the journey on foot. The terrain at the campsite itself is notably flat and well-cleared, which is a significant advantage in the often-rocky Blue Ridge terrain. This flatness makes it easier for campers to set up their gear securely and enjoy a comfortable night's rest without the struggle of uneven ground.

As a primitive site maintained by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) and the National Park Service, the services at 4-Mile Campsite are minimal by design. This is a "leave no trace" destination where the focus is on self-sufficiency. However, the site provides the fundamental requirements for an overnight backpacking trip in Virginia.

• Cleared and leveled tent sites capable of accommodating multiple small backpacking tents.
• A well-established stone fire ring for managed campfires (subject to local fire bans).
• Designated areas for hammock camping among the mature hardwoods.
• Direct access to the white-blazed Appalachian Trail for continued hiking north or south.
• Pet-friendly environment where dogs are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash.
• Proximity to seasonal water sources, though hikers are advised to filter all water found on the trail.

The features and highlights of 4-Mile Campsite make it a standout choice for local explorers. One of its most praised attributes is its reputation for being "very flat and quiet." In a section of the trail characterized by rocky outcroppings and steep climbs, finding a level resting spot is a major highlight. Furthermore, the site’s location provides a sense of seclusion without being completely isolated from the local communities of Purcellville and Bluemont.

• Scenic views of the Loudoun Valley, offering a unique perspective of the Virginia countryside from the ridge.
• Kid-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent destination for a first-time backpacking trip for families.
• Quiet environment located away from major highway noise and active railroad tracks.
• Close proximity to Harpers Ferry, allowing for easy day-hikes from the campsite into the historic lower town.
• A central location within the "Roller Coaster" section, serving as a tactical resting point for long-distance hikers.
• Opportunities for "stealth camping" in deeper wooded areas nearby for those seeking extra privacy.

For more information regarding trail conditions, parking at nearby trailheads, or current fire regulations in Loudoun County, hikers should consult the official Appalachian Trail Conservancy or PATC resources. Because the site is primitive and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, there is no direct phone line for the campsite itself.

Address: Appalachian Ln, Purcellville, VA 20132, USA

What makes 4-Mile Campsite worth choosing for your next Virginia outdoor adventure? For local residents, it is the convenience of having a world-class hiking trail so close to home. Choosing this site allows you to bypass the crowds of more popular overlooks like Bears Den or Raven Rocks while still enjoying the same stunning Blue Ridge environment. It is a place where you can truly "unplug" and experience the simplicity of trail life, whether you are staying for a single night or using it as a lunch spot during a day hike.

Furthermore, the site is worth choosing because of its historical and cultural context. Camping here places you in the heart of the Appalachian Trail community. You might find yourself sharing a fire with a thru-hiker who has walked a thousand miles, or meeting a local neighbor out for a weekend stroll. The sense of camaraderie and shared respect for the Virginia wilderness is palpable. If you are looking for a straightforward, authentic, and beautiful place to spend a night under the stars in Northern Virginia, 4-Mile Campsite remains one of the best "hidden in plain sight" options on the trail.

Would you like me to help you map out the best parking options and hiking distances for a weekend trip starting from Purcellville to the 4-Mile Campsite?