Cabins and camping facilities near Bentonville, Virginia provide options at elevations between 500-800 feet along the Shenandoah River. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Primitive riverside camping sites and full-amenity cabins serve as starting points for river recreation and mountain exploration.
What to do
River access for tubing and kayaking: Low Water Bridge Campground features designated boat launches and river entry points. "I really love this campground. The river sites are worth the few extra bucks, but they book up fast. You have to call in your reservations - can't book online," notes one visitor. Some sites include direct river access for putting in boats.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Fort Valley Ranch offers fishing opportunities in two stocked ponds. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," reports a camper who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Hiking trails from campgrounds: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground connects to numerous hiking options. "One of my favorite campgrounds - particularly when I bring first time campers. Clean grounds and importantly clean facilities. Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners," explains a regular visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabin camping options provide vegetation barriers for seclusion. At Big Meadows Campground, a camper shares, "Though this campground is HUGE, the sites are not piled on top of each other. Our site, B112, was surrounded by shrubs under the canopy of trees which provided tons of privacy."
Winter accommodations: Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback maintains year-round access for cabin campers. "This place is great. I've been coming here for years. Hands down the best place to camp (and tube) in Shenandoah... a short drive to Luray Caverns, Luray Zoo, Skyline Drive and shops," reports a frequent visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The cabin areas at Big Meadows Campground offer animal sightings. "Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Bear box for food storage. Large site size. We had site 23. Highly recommend!" notes a visitor who enjoyed the natural encounters during their stay.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Big Meadows Campground and surrounding areas have minimal connectivity. "No cell service. We went to the visitor center and connected to the WiFi if we needed to do something online," explains a recent camper who planned accordingly.
Seasonal shower availability: Some facilities close during winter months. "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground. Elevation above 3000 feet and plenty of deer! It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F," reports a winter visitor.
Required reservation systems: Camping cabins near Bentonville, Virginia typically require advance booking, especially for riverfront accommodations. "We had a great stay at a tent site on the river in June 2022. It was peaceful, and we spent a lot of our stay in the water," notes a camper at Low Water Bridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Outdoor recreation amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray provides structured activities for children. "This isn't my idea of camping, but I brought my 11 year old nephew. He was able to run around and make friends with his aunt always looking over his shoulder. He had lots of fun at pool, movie night, making s'mores, and jumping on bouncy mound," shares a visitor focused on entertaining younger campers.
Bring water gear: Riverside cabins allow direct water access for swimming during hot months. "Great place with spaces right on the shenendoah for fishing and tubing/kayaking. Most spots have no electricity or water hookups. Quiet during the week," notes a Low Water Bridge Campground visitor.
Plan for evening temperature drops: Even summer nights can become cool at higher elevations. "The fireflies are spectacular. At dusk, the ground shimmers, and then after they disperse, you will still see them flit by the tent throughout the night," describes a Big Meadows visitor highlighting nighttime experiences.
Tips from RVers
Challenging access roads: Some cabin camping areas require careful navigation. "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us. The access was smooth and hassle-free," reports a Fort Valley Ranch visitor.
Utility considerations: KOA Luray RV Resort provides full-service sites but with varying quality. "We had a great back in site, that although a little unlevel, was really private and in the back corner. It was adjacent to a farm and like others have mentioned, it was a bit smelly at times," notes a recent visitor describing site conditions.
Dump station logistics: Cabin campers with RVs should note available facilities. "Nice little campground on the river. RV sites are spaced out and have wooden fences on the sides. 30 amp service at the site. You can fill your water tanks as you enter the campground," explains a visitor to Low Water Bridge Campground.
