E
Ethan L.
Traveler
TravelerGraves Mountain Farm Campground
Graves Farm
Beautiful spot. The campsite is across the street from the lodge. G-Maps and Apple will take you to the lodge however. Loved the Freeform and “make your own” spot vibe
Camping near Chester Gap, VA
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping opportunities near Chester Gap, Virginia span from developed sites at Shenandoah River State Park to primitive backcountry options in Shenandoah National Park. The area includes several established campgrounds with a range of amenities, including Gooney Creek Campground and Elizabeth Furnace Campground, both positioned within 10 miles of Chester Gap. Accommodation types vary considerably throughout the region, with tent camping prevalent at locations like Mathews Arm Campground, while full-service RV hookups can be found at Low Water Bridge Campground and Jellystone Park in Luray. Many campgrounds also offer cabin and yurt rentals for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.
Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping access in the Shenandoah Valley region. Most developed campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park, including Mathews Arm and Big Meadows, operate only from May through late October or early November. As one visitor noted, "We were looking for a quick night to tent out with the kids," highlighting the importance of advance planning. Year-round options exist at Elizabeth Furnace and Sky Meadows State Park, though winter camping requires appropriate cold-weather gear. Permits are required for backcountry camping in Shenandoah National Park, while most established campgrounds accept reservations. Travelers should note that many campgrounds in the area have limited or no cell service, and some access roads may be challenging in inclement weather.
Creekside camping represents a particularly valued feature in the Chester Gap area. At Gooney Creek Campground, multiple reviews praise the waterfront sites and swimming opportunities. "Located right on the bank of the creek you sleep with the sound of the babbling water," shared one camper. Proximity to Shenandoah National Park's northern entrance provides convenient access to Skyline Drive's scenic overlooks and hiking trails. Several visitors mentioned the quality of facilities varies considerably between campgrounds, with some reviewers noting older bathrooms and showers at certain locations. The mix of camping environments—from mountain views to riverside locations—allows visitors to select sites based on their preferred activities, whether hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying natural surroundings.
Best Campgrounds near Chester Gap (157)
1. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
"Our patio was on the side next to the road which was a little close to traffic but we still loved siting there, especially in the evening with a campfire."
"Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers."
from $27 - $427 / night
Check Availability2. Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
"This is a nice and very large campground tucked away in the northern part of Shenandoah. The facilities and grounds were well kept and it’s a short car’s travel (but there’s also a trail!)"
"There are a few trails encompassing and leading out from the campground, and it's nice to have a central location from which you can out on small hikes."
from $30 - $75 / night
Check Availability3. Gooney Creek Campground
"We are tent campers and we’re looking for a place close to Shenandoah to ride our motorcycles. This was 3 miles from the north entrance to the park, perfect."
"Hike up a trail or up through the creek itself to a swimming hole only accessible to campers. Saw some decent sized fish swimming around in there."
4. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
"While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people."
"Our site had the AT running right behind it. The was plenty of access to trails, and pretty central to the park. The campground is near showers, laundry, campstore, and visitor center."
from $30 - $75 / night
Check Availability5. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
"It is suitable for novice campers to experienced off-trail campers. You'll never tire of the wonders this beautiful piece of America has to offer."
"There was definitely a lot less privacy/space between sites here at SNP than I’ve noted at other parks across Virginia."
6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray
"Close to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive."
"They had plenty of appearances of Yogi or Cindy bear at activities and just driving around the park on a golf cart."
7. Elizabeth Furnace Campground
"In the valley outside of Shenandoah, it was a nice spot to return to at night. There are also some hiking trails across the street."
"Campground Review: What a great find, so close to a town….though feels like you are deep in the forest!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability8. Low Water Bridge Campground
"Positive: Friendly staff, near the river, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit. Negative: sanitary fascilities are old."
"Sites 31 and 32 (despite being near the campground’s public river access) look large and private. Both riverside."
from $30 - $125 / night
Check Availability9. Sky Meadows State Park Campground
"Parking is in a locked lot steps away from trail head which leads to campsites about a mile away. Campsites are in a wooded area of park well away from other park attractions so it's very quiet."
"When we were there they were having a historical reenactment near the visitors center that was so cool! We came in August and it was super hot, but that is just Virginia."
from $21 - $112 / night
Check Availability10. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground
"Great spot right outside Shenandoah NP with quick access to the park or nearby trails. great fishing and hikes for kids, too!"
"There are a couple of sites that have a path to the creek that flows behind the campground.There is also plenty of hiking trails to be completed around the campgrounds of various levels from beginner to"
Drive Time
- 30 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 4 min from Harrisonburg, VA
- 1 hr 6 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 1 hr 16 min from Charlottesville, VA
Recent Camping Photos near Chester Gap, VA
371 Photos of 157 Chester Gap Campgrounds
Les R.
Compton Gap Backcountry camping — Shenandoah National Park
Adelle C.
Gooney Creek Campground
Adam and Suzanne B.
Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
Shari G.
Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
Christopher L.
Low Water Bridge Campground
TJ W.
Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
Nick C.
Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
The Dyrt
Elizabeth Furnace Campground
QSquared2
Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground
Katie M.
Sky Meadows State Park Campground
Sumner C.
South Fork Shenandoah River
Jason G.
Fort Valley Ranch
Recent Reviews near Chester Gap, VA
990 Reviews of 157 Chester Gap Campgrounds
- BBernard D.
ScoutNorth Fork Resort
Do not camp here!
I camped here on the 4th of July weekend in 2026. The lot was over $70 and the lot was a gravel lot in full sun, and our air conditioner could not keep up with the heat, because of the conplete lack of shade. These are the only lots available to campers. The water was toxic and brown out of the tap, and our water tank happened to be empty. We complained to the office, and they refused to help us by obtai i g some bottled water that was potable, and the manager basically said screw you. They didn’t care and claimed the water passed a water test. I run a campground myself and am very familiar with these issues, and guarantee this would not pass a potability test. I am reporting them to the local health dept and to the state liscensing department. If they think they can just blow me off, they are picking a battle with the wrong guy. O well, their mistake!!
MG S.
GuideShenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
Difficult to Find a Spot!
As we got through Shenandoah Nat’l Park, we learned that all the campgrounds were full. So we ended up getting a backcountry camping permit in the southern district between Ivy Creek and Loft Mountain along the Appalachian Trail. It was so difficult to find a good spot in this specific area. If you have a 1-2 person tent, it may be easier. We ended up “hiking” about a quarter mile from the Loft Mountain Camp Store on the Frazier Trail to the A.T. Set up right there at the corner on the flattest spot we could find. Ended up being a great night! It gets super windy up there and some of the trees creak deeply. Thankfully no downed trees!
- MG S.Guide
Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Great Camp!
This is a good campground! The spot we picked thankfully only had one neighbor — and they didn’t even show up! Of course the kids around us were noisy throughout the night, but that’s to be expected. Not sure the quiet times are strictly enforced. The wind gets really heavy in there!
Nancy W.
LegendAndy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
Great State Park Campground! Would be a 5 if there was sewer.
We absolutely loved our stay at this state park. The sites are spacious with plenty of room for your RV (no matter what the size) and plenty of room for a screen room on your patio. Unlike in many private campgrounds, campsites are well-spaced out giving you some privacy so you don’t feel like you are on top of your neighbor. A scattering of trees provides some shade and privacy. The road in and out of the campground was steep but since it was paved we didn’t have a traction issue.
We stayed in site 10 which was a gravel back-in site. It was plenty long enough for our 45’ RV and tow car. Each campsite has an expansive patio with large firepit, picnic table, and raised grill for cooking. Our patio was on the side next to the road which was a little close to traffic but we still loved siting there, especially in the evening with a campfire. A few sites were paved and some were double sites which would be great if you are traveling with friends.
The park itself has numerous gravel/dirt trails along the river and throughout the park. The longest one travels all along the Shenandoah River, and you can access it directly from the RV campground. One day we walked the trail to the visitor center which has an amazing overlook near the visitor center. Inside are exhibits which were interesting and informative about the area. If you are looking for more and diverse trails, you are just minutes away from Shenandoah National Park. Don’t miss out on the famous Skyline Drive in Shenandoah.
The town of Front Royal is about 15 minutes away and where you will get cell/mobile data service and there are restaurants and supplies. We love the burgers at Spelunkers and wished we had more time to visit the Virginia Beer Museum. Chester Gap Cellars has great wine and incredible views. The only downsides of this park are that there is no sewer and no Verizon service. Even without those amenities, we loved our stay and would definitely come back.
Tara S.LegendBig Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Such a quiet, relaxing spot (walk-in tent site)
We stayed in site #27 for two nights. It was a walk-in tent site, but the car was very close. The site offered plenty of privacy. We could see the other sites, but they weren't close. We had a nice bear box and good hammock trees, plus a picnic table and decent tent sites. Lots of deer walked through our site in the morning, and we had easy access to several trails.
Carlos O.TravelerWolf Gap Recreation Area
Very clean spot
Very nice spot, good tent setup pads and fire rings at all the sites, my one complaint is that it is right next to the road that while not frequently used, the occasional car can often take away from the remote experience. There are some sites a little further in but the diff is minimal. Overall very great, well maintained spot
- kkayla A.Scout
Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
Peaceful Stay
This KOA was quiet and perfect for a short stay. We enjoyed our time here. The staff was friendly.
Jessica M.GuideBig Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Glamping!
I chose Big Meadows to stay at because my traveling companion is definitely a bit bougie and was anxious about camping in the mountains of a NP. Due to this site having showers, toilets, a laundromat, camp store(s) and even a lodge/taproom, they felt more comfortable. We stayed at site D142, right near the entrance by the registration office and showers. I didn’t expect the site to be so nice and quiet and still feel quite private despite the location! We checked out the loops and besides the tent sites, I actually preferred our site. We stayed the week before Memorial Day weekend and I was pleased with how quiet it was. Quiet hours were strictly adhered without rangers having to ask, other campers were respectful toward each other and we had no issues. The NP staff were awesome and the concession employees for the showers, camp store, and the Wayside grill were genuinely friendly and obviously cared about their jobs, which I sincerely appreciate. Wayside grill with attached camp store was fun and had some great gift items as well as some pretty solid quality hiking and camping items. The grill even had a beyond burger which I greatly appreciated! The lodge was funky but not my cup of tea, the taproom was ok, although the employees were really nice.
It did rain half the time we were there with extremely heavy fog so we only did a few hikes but they were still a lot of fun. We didn’t see any bear either! The number one animal we had invade our campsite on the regular were birds. Two catbirds regularly tried to involve themselves in everything, including landing on a pot of oatmeal I was actively cooking and standing next to! We followed leave no trace of course but any chance the birds got, from catbirds, robins, brown thrashers, towhee, and even a redstart, they would try to investigate.
There is clean drinking water listed on the campsite maps, there are utility sinks for grey water (don’t use the bathroom sink!), bathrooms were always clean and bathrooms and showers are open 24/7 and are well lit. I didn’t buy the firewood so I’m unsure how much it is but the little camp store was open from 9-6 (right by the bathroom) for firewood, ice, and other various supplies.
Only downsides to the site are 1) showers are not cheap ($5 for 10 mins) and don’t stay warm for long so you’re showering in chilly water. Some stalls last a bit longer than others. 2) The biggest issue though was surprisingly the bear boxes. They are quite large and fit a lot of stuff which is great. However, you are expected to keep your cooler in them. I have a bear proof cooler (IGBC) so I’ve never had to experience this situation before. The bear box being made of metal, heated everything up in it which caused rapid melting of ice. Despite pre-chilling it and my ice usually lasting for days and days, we had to refill it daily. The camp store thankfully sold ice (10 lb bags for $5) but it was frustrating that there was no other option for bear proof items. I didn’t fight the rangers regarding it because it’s their rules, it’s for the safety of the bears and people, and the rangers and park staff have enough stuff to deal with.
All in all, I’ve never really glamped before so it was quite a luxurious trip even with the rain and fog for half the trip. I’ll most definitely be back and would even stay at the same site or a tent only site with no driveway.
Guide to Chester Gap
Chester Gap camping offers diverse options at elevations ranging from 600 to over 3,000 feet. The area sits where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet the Shenandoah Valley, creating distinct microclimates across different camping zones. Winter camping remains available at several locations while most Shenandoah National Park sites close from late October through April.
What to do
Stream fishing: Gooney Creek Campground offers direct creek access for fishing. "We set out along the numerous trails to find a spot that would provide us with some privacy from day hikers as well as proximity to passage creek to do some fishing," notes one visitor about Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground.
Stargazing: Best on weeknights when campgrounds are less crowded. A camper at Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground mentioned, "the stars at night were breathtaking." Light pollution is minimal at higher elevation sites.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning provides best opportunities. "We saw a black bear cub run off into the woods along the Piney Branch Trail," reported a backpacker at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites. Deer sightings are common throughout the area.
What campers like
River access: Waterfront sites allow direct swimming and paddling opportunities. One camper at Low Water Bridge Campground remarked: "We got a site right on the river bank so we just hopped out and were at our site!" Many river sites book quickly during summer months.
Trail connectivity: Hike directly from camp without driving. "Lots of great hiking to do in the area. When we were there they were having a historical reenactment near the visitors center that was so cool!" shared a visitor at Sky Meadows State Park.
Hammock camping: Dedicated posts available at select sites. "If it hadn't rained, I also would've been able to use the hammock posts at my site (you could use these to hang a clothesline too if you wanted)," reported a Sky Meadows camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Mixed approaches across campgrounds. "You have to call in your reservations - can't book online," noted a visitor to Low Water Bridge Campground, while Elizabeth Furnace sites are first-come, first-served.
Bear safety: Essential throughout region. "There are bear boxes at my campsite to store my food/trash/toiletries was so much easier than hanging a bear bag," explained a Sky Meadows camper. Bear activity increases in spring after hibernation period ends.
Weather variability: Prepare for all conditions. "We needed every layer we brought, including winter hats, puffy jackets, and gloves. During the 6 days we were in the backcountry, we experienced everything from warm summer-like weather to chilly winter winds," shared a backpacker at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Extra amenities make family trips easier. At Mathews Arm Campground, a visitor observed, "Great campground! A lot of hiking and nature everywhere. We even had a doe and fawn right in our campsite!"
Creek crossings: Use caution with children. "The creeks (runs) and springs are really flowing this time of year, with some nearly thigh deep. We didn't see a single bridge, though there were a few creeks that had downed trees or make-shift rock crossings," noted a backpacker in Shenandoah.
Scout group options: Dedicated areas available for larger groups. "My site bordered the buddy site and scout group sites at the beginning of the campground, so there was noise from loud kids but not as bad as I thought it might be," reported a Sky Meadows visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Plan accordingly. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, a camper noted, "You will enjoy 30/50 amp electric and water. No sewer at the sites, so plan on using the dump drain on the way out."
Site leveling challenges: Check reviews before booking. "Our only real drawback was our site was not even close to level. It probably shouldn't have been available for a 40'+ RV," shared a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray.
Length restrictions: Most National Forest sites accommodate smaller units only. "Rigs longer than 25 feet, most likely will not fit," warned a camper at Gooney Creek Campground, emphasizing the importance of checking size limitations before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Chester Gap, VA?
What camping is available near Chester Gap, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Chester Gap, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 157 campgrounds and RV parks near Chester Gap, VA and 17 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Chester Gap, VA?
Which is the most popular campground near Chester Gap, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chester Gap, VA is Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 57 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chester Gap, VA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chester Gap, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Chester Gap, VA.
What parks are near Chester Gap, VA?
What parks are near Chester Gap, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Chester Gap, VA that allow camping, notably Shenandoah National Park and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park.
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