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Best Campgrounds near Front Royal, VA

1,048 Reviews

Front Royal serves as a gateway to camping in Virginia's Shenandoah region, with established campgrounds, cabins, and dispersed sites across the area. Shenandoah River State Park Campground provides year-round accommodations for tents, RVs, cabins, and yurts along the riverfront. Mathews Arm Campground in Shenandoah National Park operates seasonally from May through October. Several campgrounds like Gooney Creek Campground and North Fork Resort offer tent and RV sites, while others like Sky Meadows State Park exclusively support tent camping with hike-in access.

Many campgrounds in the region require advance reservations during peak season, particularly those within Shenandoah National Park. Seasonal operations vary significantly, with some campgrounds like Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park operating year-round while others like Mathews Arm Campground and Big Meadows operate only from spring through fall. Facilities range from primitive sites without amenities to full-service campgrounds with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations. Weather conditions can affect camping experiences, especially at higher elevations. A visitor to Gooney Creek noted, "We had a tent site with plenty of room to set up and park. Bathrooms were clean. Wood was provided in wheel barrows so no heavy lugging required."

Riverfront camping represents a significant draw in the Front Royal area, with multiple campgrounds positioned along the Shenandoah River. Several campgrounds like Low Water Bridge Campground and North Fork Resort provide direct river access, which proves popular with visitors seeking water-based activities. Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping are common throughout the region. While some campgrounds receive positive reviews for their maintenance and amenities, others have faced criticism. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Pam, the campground host was extremely accommodating! It was a little challenging to find the campground as it's located partially under a highway overpass." Proximity to Shenandoah National Park makes many of these campgrounds convenient basecamps for exploring the park's extensive trail system and scenic Skyline Drive.

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Best Camping Sites Near Front Royal, Virginia (154)

    1. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 622-6840

    $30 - $40 / night

    "Tons of trails great for families with dogs or those wanting to get out and hike. The campsite featured some of the best bathroom/ shower houses, they were super clean and well maintained."

    "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."

    2. Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    44 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3132

    $30 - $75 / night

    "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."

    "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!)"

    3. Gooney Creek Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 635-4066

    "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. Elizabeth Furnace Campground

    9 Reviews
    Strasburg, VA
    8 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "Campground Review: What a great find, so close to a town….though feels like you are deep in the forest!"

    "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."

    5. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    15 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    "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. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    120 Reviews
    Stanley, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    $30 - $75 / night

    "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."

    7. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

    9 Reviews
    Strasburg, VA
    8 miles

    "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"

    8. Low Water Bridge Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 635-7277

    $30 - $125 / night

    "There are also several river rafting companies close by. The camp store seemed basic. Not a lot of supplies if you forget something. Front Royal is 20 minutes away and has several outdoor stores."

    "Positive: Friendly staff, near the river, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit. Negative: sanitary fascilities are old."

    9. North Fork Resort

    7 Reviews
    Front Royal, VA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 636-9949

    "First time visiting North Fork, didn’t explore as much as I wanted to, Campers are tightly parked next to one another, was invited by my Uncle to come have a good time and enjoy the atmosphere, go tubing"

    10. Sky Meadows State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Paris, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 592-3556

    "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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Front Royal, VA

437 Photos of 154 Front Royal Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Front Royal, VA

1048 Reviews of 154 Front Royal Campgrounds

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Cedar Creek Trail dispersed campsite

    Cedar Creek Trail Dispersed Campsite

    Went to Stultz gap and was a little unimpressed. Drove about 10 minutes further north on the same road.

    Location is approximate. After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there.

    Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring.

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Camping

    The spot itself is right next to the road. The map seems to indicate trails connected but they appear very overgrown.

    Appears some may use this with horses as some small amount of waste was left behind.

    We ended up driving about 10-15 minutes further north along the same road and found a nicer spot with an established fire ring.

  • Brian B.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    The Retreat at Shenandoah Meadows

    Great place, zero oversight…

    First, let me say that the viewers at this campground are incredible. We stayed there this September and my family had a fantastic time in their cabins. When we got there, we found our cabin and these had codes to be able to enter. All was fine till we started looking at bathrooms.

    None of the bathroom facilities are labeled, male or female, but it was just our family there so it wasn’t a really big deal. Later on in the weekend, another group showed up, and then we felt as though we needed to try and find or figure out another way to ensure that the girls were safe.

    Every building in the campground is open you can walk literally anywhere you would like. Nobody is there to enforce anything. We had such a good time, that I still give it four stars. We had such good views that I would still give it four stars. But I would be aware of what you’re going to.

  • R
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Good place to stay for a night

    This is a good place to stay in an area along Hwy 50 where there aren’t many other options. The host was friendly and helpful. The campground is clean and safe. The bathrooms are fine with a good shower and hot water. There is a swimming pool although it was closed for the season when I was here.

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Graves Mountain Farm Campground

    Great camp site for our motorcycle trip

    Awesome views, good food in the restaurant up the hill. Lots of people on horses running around which we loved, and good live music after dinner. Could get muddy if you're there after rain

  • C
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm

    Convenient location

    It s nice to have a camp option near Harrisonburg. I agree with others that the tall grass seems like a tick risk. The tall grass is too close in the more private fire circle for fire safety. It was nice to hear several owls nearby. There is road noise during the day. Orv is welcoming and accommodating.

  • E
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Camp Cacapon

    Great camping in a perfect spot

    We stayed at this campground Sep 26-28 and had a fantastic time. The campsite is in a perfect spot on the Cacapon river, and the facilities are excellent. Nice campsites, clean bathrooms and a charming little pavilion that you can rent and hang out with your group.

    Highly recommend

  • G
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Private

    If you’re looking for quiet and privacy, this is the place.  they laid out the sites so that you’re not side by side. They are all on an angle which moves you further away from anyone on both sides.  The angled site also was great for driving just past you’re site and practically backing straight back into you’re site.  Decent bath house and friendly, low key staff.  Great rates per night.

Guide to Front Royal

Camping near Front Royal, Virginia, offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Shenandoah National Park. Many campers rave about the easy access to trails right from their campsites. One reviewer at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground enjoyed a late evening under the stars, saying, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: If you enjoy fishing, check out the nearby rivers. Campers at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground highlighted the beautiful river access, stating, "Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Loft Mountain Campground noted, "The bathrooms and showers are very clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One visitor at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "We could see a couple of other campsites from ours but generally felt we had plenty of space and privacy."
  • Proximity to Attractions: Campers love being close to both nature and local attractions. A reviewer at Pohick Bay Campground said, "We were here to visit DC and it was an excellent spot to stay."

What you should know:

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground advised, "Arrive early enough in the day to snag a better site."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, "There is no electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm, and no cell service."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA complained, "Partiers with foul mouths throughout the campground. No enforcement of quiet hours."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "The playground and trails were nice; kids really enjoyed the chance to take in nature."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids engaged. A visitor at Greenbrier State Park Campground said, "There are also easy trails from the camping loops to the lake."
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food on hand can save you time and money. A camper at Rocky Gap State Park Campground noted, "The camp store has their own swim beach with a great playground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "We would not have been satisfied with the slope of more than a few of the sites here."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t offer electric or water hookups. A visitor at Matthews Arm Campground said, "No electric hookups, but you can run a generator if needed."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground appreciated the convenience of the dump station nearby.

Camping near Front Royal, Virginia, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Front Royal, VA?

Front Royal offers excellent camping options for all preferences. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground stands out with beautiful mountain views, riverside camping, extensive hiking trails, and exceptionally clean bathroom facilities. For those seeking a more rustic forest experience, Elizabeth Furnace Campground provides a secluded woodland setting with picnic tables, fire pits, and lantern posts, yet remains conveniently close to town. Both campgrounds serve as excellent base camps for exploring the Shenandoah Valley region while offering distinctly different camping experiences.

Is Gooney Creek Campground a good option when camping in Front Royal?

Gooney Creek Campground is a viable option when camping near Front Royal, offering basic amenities including water access and toilets with both drive-in and walk-in sites. For those seeking riverside camping alternatives, Low Water Bridge Campground provides nicely spaced RV sites with wooden privacy fences, 30-amp electrical service, and water tank fill stations at entry. This campground also offers tube and kayak rentals with several river rafting companies nearby, making it particularly appealing for water recreation enthusiasts.

What camping amenities are available at Front Royal, Virginia campgrounds?

Front Royal area campgrounds offer diverse amenities to suit various camping styles. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views features manicured grounds, an exceptionally large dog park, a swimming pool, and unique farm views with grazing animals. For those seeking luxury RV accommodations, Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages provides beautifully maintained wooded sites with stone borders, walls, and fire pits at every location. Other campgrounds in the area typically offer varying combinations of water access, electrical hookups, shower facilities, hiking trails, and river recreation opportunities, with amenity levels ranging from basic forest service sites to full-service RV resorts.

How close is Front Royal camping to Shenandoah National Park?

Front Royal serves as the northern entrance to Shenandoah National Park, making it an ideal basecamp for park exploration. Mathews Arm Campground is located directly within the park's northern section, offering a serene national park experience with generator-free areas and beautiful natural surroundings. For those preferring to camp outside the park, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground provides a convenient option that feels secluded yet allows quick access to the park entrance. Most Front Royal campgrounds are within 10-30 minutes of the park entrance, making day trips along Skyline Drive and to popular hiking trails highly accessible.

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