Camping options within a 30-mile radius of Edinburg, Virginia range from rustic, free forest sites to full-hookup RV resorts. The region sits at elevations between 800-2000 feet in the Shenandoah Valley, with mild winters and warm summers averaging 85°F in July. Fall temperatures dip to 35-60°F, creating ideal camping conditions during September and October when humidity levels drop significantly.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: Located within 45 minutes of Edinburg, Mathews Arm Campground offers direct access to Overall Run Falls from the campground parking area. "You can hike to Overall Run Falls from a trail in the parking lot near the campground and turn this into a loop hike by returning a different way," notes Mary S., who also recommends consulting with rangers at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center for personalized hiking suggestions.
Wildlife viewing: The mountainous terrain surrounding campsites near Edinburg supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Many deers, frogs, snakes, moths, flies, birds, turtles, bears," reports Logan W. about the natural abundance at Mathews Arm Campground. At most campgrounds in the area, dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times.
Cavern exploration: Endless Caverns RV Resort combines camping with underground exploration. "The caverns are super awesome as well, especially considering they have not been fully explored. It is not as crowded as some of the other caverns in the area which in my opinion is a plus," shares Roxy V. Tours cost less for campground guests and run multiple times daily from the stone welcome center.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Creekside Campground in Edinburg offers waterfront sites that campers consistently appreciate. Michael H. describes the experience: "Small campground on the side of a creek. Sites are simple, some are bigger than others. Ducks are there and you hear the water which is very soothing to us." The sound of flowing water creates a natural background for sleep.
Mountain views: Campers seeking panoramic vistas find options within a short drive. "We had a great stay at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray, VA... Wow, what a view! Sunset over the mountains from our campsite each evening. Who could ask for more?" reports Matt S. about the Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views campground (formerly Luray KOA).
Secluded sites: Several campgrounds offer more private spots for those seeking solitude. "Each of the sites are a little secluded which is lovely. This is a great spot and I wish we would've stayed longer!" notes CJ G. about the free Little Fort Campground. These sites fill quickly during peak seasons but remain available midweek throughout much of spring and fall.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Review campground maps carefully before booking, as site proximity differs dramatically across facilities. Kevin O. observed at Creekside Campground: "Sites were pretty tight. Very wet and muddy, mostly all gravel and dirt." Some campgrounds like Little Fort offer more distance between sites but fewer amenities.
OHV noise impacts certain areas: The Little Fort Campground connects to OHV trails which creates noise during daylight hours. "There is an atv trail - so you will hear noise. But everyone is respectful and it's quiet at night," explains Marissa S. Weekends bring increased motorized activity from 9am-7pm in these areas.
Mountainous terrain affects access: Several campgrounds feature steep entry roads or challenging site access. At Endless Caverns RV Resort, "The campground is on the side of a mountain so it is very steep in some sections. (One entire loop says 4 wheel drive recommend, so read carefully before booking!)" warns Jess.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Big Meadows Campground offers educational programming for children. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground," shares Kim L. Many programs focus on wildlife identification and conservation, running approximately 45-60 minutes.
Space for play: Some campgrounds provide significant open areas for children to explore. At Mathews Arm Campground, camper Eric K. notes it "offers both family campsites and group campsites (7-25 people), all reasonably priced. Sites come with picnic tables and fire grates." The group sites work well for multiple families camping together.
Wildlife encounters: Deer sightings excite young campers and occur regularly at most area campgrounds. "We even had a doe and fawn right in our campsite!" reports Stephen K. about Mathews Arm Campground. Parents should store food properly, as bears also inhabit the region.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain around Edinburg creates naturally uneven camping pads at many facilities. "The spaces at this campground are pretty tight. Not much room for activities other than sitting by a fire. Getting in and out on a weekend is pretty difficult too," observes Wyatt S. about Creekside Campground.
Seasonal access considerations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Big Meadows Campground operates from "May 6 to November 13," according to their website, and John B. reports that in winter "Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter. Bathrooms and showers were nearby and clean."
Hookup availability: Full hookup options exist primarily at private campgrounds. Matt S. describes his site at Creekside Campground: "Clean and level gravel site with well-maintained utility hook-ups. Minutes from I-81. The water leaked and made for a pretty soggy swamp on the utility side of our coach." Always check connections upon arrival to prevent site flooding.
