Cabins near Chester Gap, Virginia sit at the northern entrance of Shenandoah National Park, offering shelter at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,400 feet. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s while summer highs reach the upper 80s with significant humidity. These rustic accommodations provide shelter in an area known for its diverse wildlife including black bears, which are commonly sighted near several cabin areas.
What to do
River adventures: Low Water Bridge Campground offers prime access to the Shenandoah River. "Go bike, fish, swim, hike, relax," notes Jonny D. about nearby Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground. The park provides canoe launches and fishing spots along 5.2 miles of shoreline.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple cabin rental areas feature natural wildlife observation opportunities. "The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too. Wild life is visible everywhere you go," writes Melissa T. about her experience at Big Meadows. Black bear sightings are common during early morning and evening hours.
Cavern exploration: Luray Caverns sits just 20 minutes from most cabin locations near Chester Gap. The Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views provides convenient lodging options. "The campground is close to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive as well as Luray Caverns and a few smaller tourist attractions including the Luray Zoo and Bear Mountain Zip-lines," explains Matt S.
What campers like
River access sites: Riverside cabin accommodations remain particularly popular. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins. Park and campgrounds are clean and well maintained," reports Ricki F. about Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
Mountain views: Many cabin sites feature valley vistas. "Sunset over the mountains from our campsite each evening. Who could ask for more?" writes Matt S. about their cabin experience at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views. The elevated placement of many cabins affords views across the valley.
Seasonal amenities: Winter cabin stays include heated facilities at select locations. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30) and shared the campground with a mix of tent campers, car/van campers, and a few larger units. The bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water, and a utility sink available," reports Carol B. about Big Meadows Campground during the cold season.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Many cabin rentals in the area require phone reservations. At Low Water Bridge Campground, "You have to call in your reservations - can't book online. The river sites are worth the few extra bucks, but they book up fast," explains RL.
Winter closures: Several cabin rental facilities close seasonally. Big Meadows operates from "May 6 to November 13" according to their season information. Showers and laundry facilities typically close during winter months even when cabins remain available.
Cell reception limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well). You'll have to drive 10-15 in either direction on Rt. 211 before you can catch a signal," notes RL about Low Water Bridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Several campgrounds provide structured children's programming. "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 Anne K. about her experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray.
Kid-friendly cabin options: When selecting accommodations with children, consider cabin placement. "The kids loved running off in the open field and playing on the zip line. We loved that we could see them from our site," reports Jen O. about their cabin selection at Jellystone Park.
Wildlife education: Engage children in safe wildlife observation. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," explains Rachel M. about her family's experience at Big Meadows, where ranger-led wildlife programs occur regularly during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations carefully when traveling with large RVs. "The 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," advises Jeff H. about his stay at Low Water Bridge Campground.
Winter preparations: For cold weather stays, review heating capabilities. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," notes Carol B. about her winter experience at Big Meadows, highlighting the importance of proper cabin heating during winter months.
Maintenance considerations: Assess cabin condition before booking. "We stayed in a level back-in site(#39) with picnic table on a concrete patio, Adirondack chairs under a pergola on a second concrete patio, clean gravel surface, and fire pit," reports Matt S. about the well-maintained cabins at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views.
