Camping options near Clear Brook, Virginia include public and private campgrounds distributed through the Shenandoah Valley and eastern West Virginia. The region sits at elevations ranging from 600-900 feet with moderate summer temperatures reaching highs of 85-90°F. Fall brings reduced humidity and nighttime temperatures that often drop 30 degrees below daytime highs, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
River activities: Brunswick Family Campground offers direct access to the Potomac River with opportunities for fishing, wading, and relaxation. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," notes Brian S., highlighting the natural water access that draws many campers.
Historic exploration: Located within walking distance of Harper's Ferry National Historical Park, Harpers Ferry Campground provides a base for exploring Civil War sites and the Appalachian Trail. "You can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way," explains Maggie A., describing the easy access to historical attractions.
Horseback riding: Fort Valley Ranch offers an equestrian experience with trail riding options for visitors seeking active outdoor adventures. "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus," reports Jason G., noting this uncommon amenity among regional campgrounds.
What campers like
River views: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites that provide natural ambiance. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," shares Darcy S. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Space between sites: Lazy A Campground offers more generous spacing than typical commercial parks. "It is not a large campground in number of sites but has huge open fields for lots of outdoor fun. It has tent sites and level rv sites with 30 amp and water," explains Erica M., emphasizing the ample room not often found at rv sites near Clear Brook, Virginia.
Clean facilities: Bull Run Regional Park maintains exceptional bathroom facilities according to campers. "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," states Yvonne B., highlighting an often-overlooked but critical campground feature.
What you should know
Train proximity: Several campgrounds in the region have nearby train tracks that may affect light sleepers. "There is a train going through day and night. For me it's a minor inconvenience and my daughter, who even as a baby, slept through it. Do bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper," advises Maggie A. about her stay at Harper's Ferry Campground.
Highway noise: Nahkeeta Campsite sits close to major roadways that create ambient noise. "Unbearable road noise. Reserved for 5 nights but left after one. Literally a couple hundred yards from 4-lane highway with nothing to block the sound," warns Gabe in a review, suggesting this might not suit those seeking quiet.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water supplies. "The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet and we had to replace all our water filters after one weekend," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Lazy A Campground, recommending bringing drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Little Orleans Campground offers dedicated children's recreation areas. "Nice campground for families with bathrooms, pool, pond, and general store. If you are looking for somewhere peaceful and secluded, this probably isn't it," shares Joann&WellsThePup, suggesting its suitability for family-oriented rather than solitude-seeking campers.
Fishing opportunities: Young anglers can enjoy stocked ponds at some locations. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," reports Jason G. about Fort Valley Ranch, highlighting activities that keep children engaged.
Site selection for privacy: Request end sites when possible for more space. "I suggest either sites T1 or T3 for more privacy!" recommends Michaela M. after staying at Little Orleans Campground, noting that edge sites typically offer more separation from neighbors.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at many regional campgrounds. "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," warns Matt S. about Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Navigating narrow roads: Many campgrounds feature tight interior roads that challenge larger rigs. "The road between the office and campsites is a bit narrow and one lane so can be tricky when people are arriving or leaving with rigs," cautions Tina in her review of KOA Luray RV Resort, one of the motorhome-friendly options near Clear Brook, Virginia.
Site spacing considerations: Prepare for close quarters at popular campgrounds. "Sites are very close together and some of the back-in sites are not very level. We were camping with friends so knew the people in the sites on both sides so didn't mind the closeness," shares Brian P. about the Harpers Ferry KOA, reflecting typical spacing at commercial campgrounds.
