George Washington National Forest Laurel Fork Special Management Area

The Laurel Fork drainage cuts deep into the Allegheny Mountains, where Forest Road 106 winds through some of the most remote backcountry in Virginia. Starting from US-33 near Brandywine, this route follows old logging roads up to 3,800 feet elevation, passing through the Laurel Fork Special Management Area. The road deteriorates beyond Slabcamp Run, requiring careful navigation through loose rock sections and multiple creek crossings where the original bridges have long since washed out.

This is technical driving that demands high-clearance 4WD and recovery gear — the creek crossings can be knee-deep after spring melt or summer storms. Best tackled May through October when water levels are manageable. No permits required, but cell service is nonexistent once you drop into the drainage. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area. What you get is genuine wilderness solitude and some of the best brook trout water in Virginia, plus the satisfaction of navigating terrain that turns back most weekend warriors.