Shenandoah River State Park offers riverside camping accommodations in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountain region. Located at elevations ranging from 600-1,400 feet, the park experiences moderate temperatures with occasional summer thunderstorms and cooler fall nights. Primitive tent sites provide direct river access with gravel parking pads, while yurt camping options near Chester Gap, Virginia offer elevated platforms with canvas walls for an intermediate camping experience.
What to do
Hiking year-round: At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, over 24 miles of trails accommodate hikers of all abilities. "Tons of trails, great for families with dogs or those wanting to get out and hike," notes one visitor. Multiple trailheads connect directly to camping areas.
River activities during summer: Low Water Bridge Campground offers kayak shuttles and equipment rentals. "Super convenient since you get off the river at your campsite after a 3-4 hour float," explains a regular visitor. The campground operates river shuttles from May through September.
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Big Meadows Campground sits at over 3,000 feet elevation, providing opportunities for animal sightings. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," reports one camper.
Target practice at managed range: The Cove Campground includes an outdoor shooting range with designated hours. "With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," shares one visitor who regularly escapes the DC suburbs.
What campers like
Clean, accessible facilities: Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views maintains well-kept restrooms and shower houses. "The campground is clean, with spacious sites and beautiful views of the mountain ranges and the Shenandoah River that backs right up to the campsite," notes a visitor who appreciated the 30/50 amp electric and water hookups.
Proximity to multiple attractions: Staying near Luray provides access to both river activities and mountain experiences. "Less than 20-minutes from Shenandoah National Park and Luray Caverns," comments a reviewer who appreciated the convenient location for day trips.
Private riverside campsites: Low Water Bridge Campground offers sites directly along the Shenandoah. "The river sites are worth the few extra bucks, but they book up fast. You have to call in your reservations - can't book online," advises a camper. Sites feature fire rings and picnic tables, with some offering direct water access.
Year-round yurt options: Rock Tavern River Kamp specializes in yurt accommodations along the riverfront. "We are located on the Shenandoah River! Our waterfront unique kamp offers yurts and tent sites along with a well maintained bathhouse," notes the owner. These yurt facilities near Chester Gap operate throughout all four seasons.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most riverside campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "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," warns a Low Water Bridge camper.
Weather considerations: Big Meadows Campground experiences more extreme conditions due to elevation. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," shares a November visitor.
Reservation requirements: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray fills quickly during summer months. "When we booked our site we didn't realize that most of the property is on a hill. Each camper was rather tight and we felt like we were staying at an RV show," notes one visitor who recommended booking early for better site selection.
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "Despite being near the campground's public river access, sites 31 and 32 look large and private. Both riverside," observes a Low Water Bridge camper who evaluated multiple sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities: Jellystone Park offers extensive kid-friendly water features during summer. "We were there before the water park opened for the season, but it looks fun, my daughter can't wait to go back; there were lots of kids activities, she loves the tie dye t-shirt she made," shares a visitor.
Educational programs: Bull Run Regional Park provides structured activities for children. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," explains a grandparent who stayed in one of the cabins.
Animal encounters: The Cove Campground maintains unique wildlife opportunities. "Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the unexpected animal interactions with children.
Camping near playground areas: Shenandoah River State Park includes play equipment near family camping zones. "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," notes a parent who visited during summer.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Most sites in the region require additional equipment. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares a Bull Run Regional Park visitor.
Power options: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground offers specific electrical configurations. "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," advises a camper who appreciated the electrical reliability.
Site dimensions: Larger rigs require careful planning. "Our site was big enough for our motor home and Jeep. Full hook-ups with 50-amp service," reports a KOA Luray visitor who secured a back-in site with multiple concrete pads.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds modify services seasonally. "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground," notes a late-season Big Meadows visitor, emphasizing the importance of checking what amenities remain available during off-peak stays.
