The park, including all of the overnight facilities, is open year-round. Lodging options include standard tent-only sites, electric-water camping, three yurts, four camping cabins (bunkhouses), regular cabins and a lodge.

Shenandoah River State Park

Amenities like flush toilets and showers are seasonal. Sites are first to come first serve and fees range seasonally from $10 - $16 a night

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

Low Water Bridge Campground

Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area is a highly esteemed destination known for its family friendly atmosphere. Spend the day fishing from a stocked trout stream, grilling at one of the many picnic spots, or taking a stroll across the swinging bridge to view the historic cabin. The campground was named for the Elizabeth Furnace, a blast furnace used to make pig iron in the 1800s. With water power from Passage Creek, the furnace purified iron ore to make high-carbon fuel used for forging. Natural Features: The charming group campground sits in the Shenandoah Valley along Passage Creek, a tributary of the North Fork Shenandoah River. The area is part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests which spans across Virginia and parts of West Virginia and Kentucky. These forests protect 40 species of trees that are mostly Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests, 60 species of mammals and 200 species of birds. Recreation: Enjoy hiking the Pig Iron and Charcoal Trail to learn how iron was made in the area. Another great hike heads up to Buzzard Rock. Passage Creek is seasonally stocked with trout to keep anglers entertained. Facilities: The campground is open year-round and allows tent and RV camping. Site pads, campfire circles, picnic tables, vault toilets and grills are provided. Water is not available onsite, but campers have access to seasonal flush toilets and drinking water from a hand pump at the Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground. Trash collection is not available so please pack-in and pack-out all trash.

Elizabeth Furnace Campground

## Overview

Secluded in the thick trees and rolling hills of the Shenandoah National Park, Mathews Arm Campground is the ideal spot for a camping getaway.

## Recreation

Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint while others wind deep into the forests and wilderness.   
  
Mathews Arm Campground is located near Overall Run Falls, which, at 93 feet, has the highest drop of all the falls in Shenandoah National Park. A moderately difficult hiking trail, which leads to the falls, is accessible from the campground. Once at the falls, visitors can enjoy views of the entire Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain.   
  
Wildlife viewing is a also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals abundant across the park.   
  
The campground is located right off of Milepost 22 on the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are available from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.

## Facilities

Mathews Arm is a family-oriented campground, offering plenty of open spaces in the nearly 166 available campsites. All sites include a place for a tent or RV, a fire ring and picnic area. The campground also offers amenities like flush toilets, drinking water and one dump station, which create a comfortable camping experience. There are no showers in this campground.

Mathews Arm Campground features pull-through and deep back-in sites which can handle most RVs and a tow vehicle. Although electric and water hookups are not available, potable water and dump stations are available, and limited generator use is permitted (see regulations).

## Natural Features

Shenandoah National Park includes 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. 

## Nearby Attractions

Elkwallow Wayside is located just two miles away, offering camping supplies, a limited menu restaurant, prepared sandwiches, beverages, souvenirs, and more.  
  
Two visitor centers are located along Skyline Drive. Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, 18 miles North, and The Harry F Byrd Sr. Visitor Center, 29 miles South.

Bookstores, restaurants and exhibits are scattered throughout the Shenandoah National Park.[Click here for more information.](https://www.nps.gov/shen/index.htm)

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 48 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.

Mathews Arm Campground

Camp OutBack has 25 wooded campsites under a canopy of hardwoods and white pines. Each site accommodates up to 10 campers and includes a picnic table, a charcoal grill and fire ring. 

The campground borders George Washington National Forest and has a walking trail to the Shenandoah River (1/4 mile). You can drive to boat landings within 1/2 to 1 1/2 miles. Camp OutBack is 10 miles from Luray and in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley close to Shenandoah National Park.

Facilities: There are restrooms, hot water showers, firewood for sale, a small camp store at the Shenandoah River Outfitters which offers canoe, kayak, raft and tube rentals.
(No electric at sites and no dump facilities. We are not set up for RV’s)

Rates: Each site is $32.00/night minimum — for 1 to 4 persons. Each additional person is $8.00 per person per night with up to 10 persons per site. (Children 8 years old and under are free)

To Reserve: You can call in to reserve or reserve online. If reserved online, one person has to reserve and pay for all that are using the campsite.You will need to sign up as a group leader to have each pay separately. See more information on being a group leader here.

Non-profit Group Rates–Mid-week (non-holiday)–for church, school and scouts-each site is $20/night minimum for 1 to 4 persons. Each additional person is $5.00 per person per night with up to 10 persons per site.

We reserve a space for you but not a specific campsite. It is ‘first come, first serve’ on selecting a specific campsite from the ones that are not taken.

Check in time on Saturday and Sunday is after 10 AM. Other days–8 AM

Check out time on Saturday and Sunday is by 10 AM. Other days–by 5 PM.

Camp OutBack is open from April 1st to the first weekend in November – weather dependent. 
Camp OutBack is just behind the Outfitter’s Store at 6502 S Page Valley Rd, Luray VA 22835

Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback

All sites are within 5-8 miles of Skyline Drive, starting from mile 21 in the North District.  All are near creeks (runs) and completely undeveloped.  Check with the Visitor Center for permits and camping regulations within the park.  Many, but not all trails, allow dogs.

Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

Emerald Pond Primitive Campground

Hawk Campground sits nestled in the Alleghany Mountains surround by a spectacular nature setting. Experience an exciting hiking experience with easy access to the Tuscarora Trail right from the campground. In the fall, this inviting location offers hunters a secluded environment to stay overnight. Fall asleep to the mellow sounds of the trees gently swaying overhead and the simple harmony of nearby crickets.

Hawk Recreation Area Campground

This is the HEADLINE

Northeastern

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

If you are looking for a group campsite in Virginia, The Dyrt has you covered. There's no need to settle for a camping site that doesn't suit you and your group. Search nearby group campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Virginia

The Best Group Camping in Virginia

Looking for a group campsite near Calvary? Finding a place to group camp in Virginia is easier than ever. Browse our extensive list of campgrounds to find a spot for your group to pitch their tents.

Calvary

The Best Group Camping Near Calvary, Virginia

Close to the Luray Caverns, Shenandoah Valley National Park, the Shenandoah River, with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The hills seem to roll on forever from the vantage point of this wonderfully rural yet convenient campground, nested atop a high hill above the Shenandoah Valley. Cruise along the famed Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, just a few miles away, or explore the park's countless hiking trails. Nearby outfitters rent canoes & tubes for floating the Shenandoah River. This campground is close to Luray Caverns and offers easy access to several Civil War sites, including New Market Battlefield State Historical Park & Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The campground's spacious grounds include shady sites, a pool & a ball field. Pool is open from Memorial Day through the weekend after Labor Day.



Spacious Skies Shenandoah Valley Campground

Creekside Campground is a family-owned campground located in Edinburg, Virginia, in the heart of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Set alongside peaceful Stoney Creek, Creekside is perfect for fishing, wading or simply relaxing.

 Creekside provides a wonderful experience while camping in the Shenandoah Valley. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Edinburg exemplifies the quaint, small town atmosphere of the Shenandoah Valley, where visitors can explore and enjoy many sites and activities in walking distance from the campground. The area also has a variety of attractions within a short driving distance.

Creekside Campground was built beside a submarine bridge near the 1817 Whissen Mill site. In the early 1800’s, a dam was constructed on Stoney Creek, providing power for a sawmill, carding machine and a boring mill for a rifle factory.

 During the Civil War, Edinburg was a strategic point because of its location along the Valley Pike, near railways and the creek, which was used to ship iron for the Southern troops. Today, Edinburg remains a quaint town where visitors can explore and enjoy many sites. Regular activities are just walking distance from the campground.

Creekside Campground

KOA Luray RV Resort

Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River 

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay are some of the best camping locations in Virginia. Near Virginia Beach, VA, camping by the beach gives you easy access to water activities that include catching a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. The oceanside city is the ideal place to gather any supplies you need before heading to your campsite. Campgrounds by Fort Story let campers walk, boat, or drive up to campsites. RVers will also find all of the necessary amenities for their vehicles. Spend some time on the beach, tour the fort, and don’t forget to stop by the historic lighthouse.

Virginia Beach

The Best Virginia Beach Camping | Virginia Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Virginia Beach, VA has a lot to offer. Virginia Beach is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Virginia Beach, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Virginia Beach, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Norfolk. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norfolk camping trip.

Norfolk

The Best Camping Near Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Chesapeake, VA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Chesapeake

The Best Camping Near Chesapeake, Virginia

Arlington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Virginia

Richmond is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Richmond is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Richmond camping trip.

Richmond

The Best Camping Near Richmond, Virginia

Newport News is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Newport News and user-submitted reviews.

Newport News

The Best Camping Near Newport News, Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Alexandria, VA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alexandria. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Alexandria, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Alexandria

The Best Camping Near Alexandria, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Alexandria. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alexandria camping trip.

Join the fun near Blue Ridge Parkway. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Best Camping Near Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia sits Shenandoah National Park. This pocket of Virginia holds some of the best camping and nature viewing in the state. This is an outdoor paradise filled with scenic trails for campers and thru-hikers alike.

Shenandoah National Park has five established campgrounds, which open in early spring and close in late fall. Only the Matthews Arm and Big Meadows campground have RV accommodations available, and all campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance. In the off-season, the best camping near Shenandoah National Park is in the nearby Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where you can disperse camp for free. If you want to stay in the main city, choose Harrisonburg, VA.

Shenandoah National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Shenandoah National Park, VA has a lot to offer. Shenandoah National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shenandoah National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Prince William Forest Park, VA? Prince William Forest Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Prince William Forest Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Prince William Forest Park

The Best Camping Near Prince William Forest Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are George Washington & Jefferson National Forest campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—George Washington Memorial Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The Best Camping Near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

The Best Camping Near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia

Join the fun near Alabama River Lakes. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alabama River Lakes. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alabama River Lakes camping trip.

Alabama River Lakes

The Best Camping Near Alabama River Lakes, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Proctor Lake, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Proctor Lake and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping in Calvary, Virginia

Top Calvary Campgrounds

Elizabeth Furnace Campground

Mathews Arm Campground

Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback

Shenandoah River State Park

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Valley Campground

Creekside Campground

KOA Luray RV Resort

Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

Low Water Bridge Campground

Browse By Type

Browse Calvary Hike-In

Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites

Emerald Pond Primitive Campground

Hawk Recreation Area Campground

Browse Calvary Boat-In

Shenandoah River State Park

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

Low Water Bridge Campground

Browse Calvary Walk-In

Elizabeth Furnace Campground

Mathews Arm Campground

Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback

Browse Calvary Drive-In

Elizabeth Furnace Campground

Mathews Arm Campground

Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback

Get the App

See What We’re Up To