k
kayla A.
Scout
ScoutHarrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
Peaceful Stay
This KOA was quiet and perfect for a short stay. We enjoyed our time here. The staff was friendly.
Top-Rated Campgrounds Near Waynesboro, Virginia
Camping near Waynesboro, Virginia ranges from full-hookup RV campgrounds to primitive tent sites in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with options to suit nearly every style and season. Sherando Lake Campground in George Washington National Forest stands out with its spring-fed swimming lake and multiple camping loops designed for different experiences. Devils Backbone Camp combines outdoor recreation with brewery access, offering a unique camping experience with mountain views. Shenandoah National Park's campgrounds, including Loft Mountain, provide access to the Appalachian Trail and scenic Skyline Drive. Private campgrounds like Misty Mountain Camp Resort and Waynesboro North 340 Campground offer year-round accommodations with full hookups for RVs, while still maintaining tent camping areas for traditional outdoor enthusiasts.
Reservation requirements vary significantly across the region, with national forest campgrounds like Sherando Lake operating on a mixed system. According to camper Linda C., "Half the sites are first come-first serve and half can be reserved. The only drawback is that many people love this park and it is difficult to get reservations." Cell service remains limited in many camping areas, particularly in the national forest and along parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, though amenities differ widely from primitive sites to resort-style accommodations. Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, especially in Shenandoah National Park where rangers strictly enforce regulations.
Campers consistently praise the region's natural water features and trail access. Sites near rivers like those at Crabtree Falls Campground receive high marks, with one visitor noting, "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night." The proximity to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive creates excellent opportunities for scenic drives and hiking. While summer weekends see heavy visitation, particularly at swimming areas like Sherando Lake, weekday camping typically offers more solitude. Winter camping options remain available at several year-round facilities, though services may be limited and weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
Best Camping Sites Near Waynesboro, Virginia (130)
1. Misty Mountain Camp Resort
41 ReviewsCrozet, VA9 milesWebsite+1 (888) 647-8900$35 - $75 / night
"The winding layout allowed for more distance between other sites. The woods were beautiful with easy walking trails right from the site."
"Back in sites for smaller trailers such as our teardrop were plenty big enough but still on the outskirts of the field. Bath house was very clean and very well thought out."
2. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
68 ReviewsDyke, VA18 milesWebsite+1 (434) 823-4675$30 - $75 / night
"This campground is perfect for those looking to just get away from things for a couple of days."
"We got a walk in site, so our tent was way far away from cars and other people. The site included a fire pit w/grill grate, picnic table, and metal bear box."
3. Sherando Lake Campground
33 ReviewsTyro, VA12 milesWebsite+1 (540) 291-2188$25 - $47 / night
"The area is located in the George Washington National forest, has a small swimming, kayaking and fishing lake and log pavillion that was created as a CCC project."
"Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."
4. Devils Backbone Camp
40 ReviewsNellysford, VA13 milesWebsite+1 (540) 817-9708$25 - $140 / night
"First time camping in any part of Virginia, very nice and clean campground, not too much outside noise besides the random car driving on the one road near by."
"We set up camp then walked over to the brewery/ restaurant for some flights and dinner. I recommend grabbing some growlers to go. Showers and restrooms were clean."
5. Shenandoah Valley Campground
27 ReviewsStaunton, VA12 milesWebsite+1 (540) 248-2267$36 - $132 / night
"We spent 2 weeks at SVC while our trunk was in the shop(our travel trailer got towed there- highly recommend Good Sam Roadside policy). Everyone on staff was accomodating, helpful and friendly."
"It was clean, but had a trail of ants get into my belongings. Sites are close to one another and the cabins are not near the water. They are near the bath house though."
6. Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
20 ReviewsStuarts Draft, VA11 milesWebsite+1 (540) 337-3920$45 - $99 / night
"You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything. Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure. Trash picked up each day."
"Good location close to I81 but little road noise. I did hear a train."
7. Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley
12 ReviewsStuarts Draft, VA8 milesWebsite+1 (540) 337-2267$29 - $45 / night
"And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar , restaurant and off to the side a little store for floats with putt putt golf and Jenna,etc."
"Lots for them to do, great swimming lake, employees were a pleasure. Trash pick-up was awesome !! Our site was gorgeous. Not a full hook up(more on that later), but absolutely perfect."
8. Crabtree Falls Campground
20 ReviewsMontebello, VA17 milesWebsite+1 (540) 377-2066$28 - $55 / night
"The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."
"I’ve camped at a completely different part of this place before which was a site without access to bathrooms and showers."
9. Waynesboro North 340 Campground
6 ReviewsCrimora, VA5 miles+1 (540) 943-9573"Good area close to hiking trails and historical sites. Dog friendly. Only negative was the closeness of the sites."
10. Stoney Creek Resort
7 ReviewsStuarts Draft, VA13 milesWebsite+1 (540) 337-1510"Beautiful surroundings. No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!"
"Ate at their on-site restaurant while a local band played outside. Mostly used by local folks as a seasonal CG. Lots of semi-permanent fixtures attached to rigs. Did get a PassPort America discount."
Recent Camping Photos near Waynesboro, VA
351 Photos of 130 Waynesboro Campgrounds
Brandon L.
Waynesboro North 340 Campground
Evelyn T.
Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley
sparkleblaster ✨.
Kiss the Earth
Chaz M.
Misty Mountain Camp Resort
Katherine C.
Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
Timothy S.
Sherando Lake Campground
Heather
Shenandoah Valley Campground
Summer M.
Stoney Creek Resort
Jon C.
Devils Backbone Camp
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Honeysuckle Hideaway
Kate
Dundo Group Campground — Shenandoah National Park (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)
bobby and kim G.
Jacksons Way River Front
Recent Reviews near Waynesboro, VA
948 Reviews of 130 Waynesboro Campgrounds
Jessica M.
GuideBig Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Glamping!
I chose Big Meadows to stay at because my traveling companion is definitely a bit bougie and was anxious about camping in the mountains of a NP. Due to this site having showers, toilets, a laundromat, camp store(s) and even a lodge/taproom, they felt more comfortable. We stayed at site D142, right near the entrance by the registration office and showers. I didn’t expect the site to be so nice and quiet and still feel quite private despite the location! We checked out the loops and besides the tent sites, I actually preferred our site. We stayed the week before Memorial Day weekend and I was pleased with how quiet it was. Quiet hours were strictly adhered without rangers having to ask, other campers were respectful toward each other and we had no issues. The NP staff were awesome and the concession employees for the showers, camp store, and the Wayside grill were genuinely friendly and obviously cared about their jobs, which I sincerely appreciate. Wayside grill with attached camp store was fun and had some great gift items as well as some pretty solid quality hiking and camping items. The grill even had a beyond burger which I greatly appreciated! The lodge was funky but not my cup of tea, the taproom was ok, although the employees were really nice.
It did rain half the time we were there with extremely heavy fog so we only did a few hikes but they were still a lot of fun. We didn’t see any bear either! The number one animal we had invade our campsite on the regular were birds. Two catbirds regularly tried to involve themselves in everything, including landing on a pot of oatmeal I was actively cooking and standing next to! We followed leave no trace of course but any chance the birds got, from catbirds, robins, brown thrashers, towhee, and even a redstart, they would try to investigate.
There is clean drinking water listed on the campsite maps, there are utility sinks for grey water (don’t use the bathroom sink!), bathrooms were always clean and bathrooms and showers are open 24/7 and are well lit. I didn’t buy the firewood so I’m unsure how much it is but the little camp store was open from 9-6 (right by the bathroom) for firewood, ice, and other various supplies.
Only downsides to the site are 1) showers are not cheap ($5 for 10 mins) and don’t stay warm for long so you’re showering in chilly water. Some stalls last a bit longer than others. 2) The biggest issue though was surprisingly the bear boxes. They are quite large and fit a lot of stuff which is great. However, you are expected to keep your cooler in them. I have a bear proof cooler (IGBC) so I’ve never had to experience this situation before. The bear box being made of metal, heated everything up in it which caused rapid melting of ice. Despite pre-chilling it and my ice usually lasting for days and days, we had to refill it daily. The camp store thankfully sold ice (10 lb bags for $5) but it was frustrating that there was no other option for bear proof items. I didn’t fight the rangers regarding it because it’s their rules, it’s for the safety of the bears and people, and the rangers and park staff have enough stuff to deal with.
All in all, I’ve never really glamped before so it was quite a luxurious trip even with the rain and fog for half the trip. I’ll most definitely be back and would even stay at the same site or a tent only site with no driveway.
Laura M.ScoutBenson's Run
Primitive Camping
Beautiful and secluded. Primitive camping area for boondocking or tent camping. Large enough to set up several electric pens for horses.
Cynthia J.
TravelerDouthat State Park Cabins & Lodges
A Stunning Place!
I can’t believe no one has rated this beautiful place. The sites are level, gravel, well spaced out and surrounded by trees. We stayed at White Pines Campground and there was a network of trails you can access a short walk away. The trails had views, lake, waterfall, and beautiful mountain laurel in bloom. These trails looked great for mountain biking too. The showers were nicely laid out, clean and had great pressure and there were plenty of them. The huge bonus was the dishwashing station with hot water. I can’t wait to come back and explore this beautiful area more!
- RReed G.Guide
Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Traveling Skyline Dr.
My wife and I stayed here one night, while driving south to north, Skyline Dr. the drive has been awesome and this campground is the perfect resting spot for us, for the night. Had a couple drinks at the lodge while watching a spectacular sunset. I’d definitely come back.
Beth D.GuideGlen Maury Park Campground
Beautiful area
It’s very green and scenic
Wes T.ScoutBig Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Mixed Results...
I will start with the negatives. They do not enforce quiet hours. At all. We had multiple nights with a large group neighboring campers partying well past midnight. Yelling, slamming car doors, absolutely no regard for fellow campers. I would not recommend staying along the road sites unless you are equipped to deal with noisy neighbors in close proximity.
And the good... The sites in the more wooded areas on the edge of the campground are beautiful. You are less likely to deal with groups of campers there to party. Bathrooms were clean and well maintained, with pay showers available. Firewood, though expensive, was plentiful. Being close to hiking, the lodge, camp store, and visitor center are excellent perks for the price of each site.
I really wish the staff was there to better enforce the quiet hours, as there were multiple campers that struggled to sleep/relax with the raucous crowd so close.
- Beth D.Guide
Glen Maury Park Campground
Ok, not great. Not good value for the money
This is the city park with the campground and an old estate. They don’t accept reservations. We arrived at 5pm on Friday. Went to the office to check in,found that they closed at 4:30. There was a note on the door that said to leave money in an envelope and put it through the slot in the door, no further information. Wrote our name and a description of the vehicles and put $110.30 in cash for 2 nights in the door slot, and went to find camping. There are no picnic tables or fire rings, in the large lower section of the campground there is just water and electric, no sewer connection. We chose a site near the river and set up camp. Then found the power isn’t working. First thing the next morning I went to the office to ask about refunding the difference for the full hook up to dry camping spot. The woman was not helpful at all, and insisted that she doesn’t do refunds, even though I explained that I had left cash. She said no one was supposed to be camping on the riverside, and that they don’t turn the power on down there. I said without a note on the door to explain that or a sign near the path, there’d be no way to know that. Beware, when you pay, make sure you know what site you’re in and what services you’re getting, then go and pay for it. She was most unpleasant, and unhelpful. On the plus side, the river is pretty, there’s an ice cream stand, and there’s nice hiking trails.
lisa K.ScoutShenandoah Valley Campground
Tent campers are allowed to camp on full hook up sites for the full hook up price.
The river is nice for floating when water is high enough. Nice waterfall for pics. Sites are close together but still ok. They have planted trees between sites so in time it will get even better. Camping by the river is very peaceful.
Guide to Waynesboro
The Blue Ridge region near Waynesboro, Virginia features diverse camping options at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevation campgrounds compared to Waynesboro itself. Most campsites in this area receive significant rainfall from May through August, with afternoon thunderstorms common during peak summer camping months.
What to do
Brewery trail hiking: 1-mile trail from Devils Backbone Camp connects directly to the brewery. The campground offers two hiking trails (3km and 5km) on property for casual exploration. Camper Jennifer E. mentions, "Walked some of the easy trails that were in the area. The scenery was beautiful and our overall experience was great."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds available at Shenandoah Valley Campground with no license required for guests. The campground maintains a dedicated fishing pond separate from swimming areas. Jerry G. notes it has a "pretty cool water fall, lots of colorful bunnies, decent fishing in the pond."
Water activities: Tubing along Middle River with natural waterfall access. The river flow varies seasonally but remains gentle enough for family tubing most of the year. Camper Joy A. describes it as having "Fishing lake, river to swim and tube down... You can even have a tent right on the river. Across from a beautiful waterfall."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathhouses: Sherando Lake Campground features recently upgraded facilities with ADA compliance. The shower houses were rebuilt to accessibility standards within the last five years and are centrally located within each camping loop. According to Lee D., "Sherando had both [showers and flush toilets]. Also, if you stay in the B or C loops, there are electric hookups, something else I was surprised to see in a NFS campground."
Riverside tent sites: Premium riverside spots at Crabtree Falls Campground offer natural water sounds throughout your stay. These sites are strategically positioned just 10 feet from the Tye River. Summer M. describes the experience as "peaceful bliss" and notes that "This campground sits along a river fed by a waterfall just a short hike away. It is the perfect blend of peace and nature as it has a tone of shade making it a perfect summer camp spot."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature resident wildlife including deer and rabbits. Dawn and dusk offer best viewing opportunities near wooded edges. Ryan Z. mentions, "Great campground with lots to do with the family. My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt."
What you should know
Bear activity management: Food storage regulations strictly enforced throughout the area. Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes at individual sites. Lisa M. warns about Loft Mountain Campground: "A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!"
Reservation challenges: Peak season availability extremely limited at popular campgrounds. Many campgrounds open reservations six months in advance with most summer weekends booking completely within days. Linda C. explains the difficulty: "Half the sites are first come-first serve and half can be reserved. The only drawback is that many people love this park and it is difficult to get reservations."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by provider and location. Verizon generally offers best coverage, though still spotty at many campgrounds. Karen notes at Shenandoah Valley Campground, "No wifi, no cable and cell service is limited - definitely not good for Verizon. There were no fewer than half a dozen people walking around with their phones held high trying to get a signal."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select camping spots near Waynesboro with dedicated play areas. Most family-oriented campgrounds feature multiple playgrounds for different age groups. Katie M. recalls, "The kids enjoyed playing on the playground, skipping rocks, and fishing as well. Such a family-friendly campground."
Budget-friendly options: Kiss the Earth offers primitive camping close to Shenandoah National Park at lower rates. This private land camping option provides basic sites without facilities at approximately half the cost of established campgrounds. Della notes, "It's super close (only an hour drive) to Shenandoah NP! Host is super responsive to questions/concerns that arise but it's not necessary to communicate with them if you prefer the privacy."
Weekend activity scheduling: Many campgrounds run organized family events during peak season. Activities typically include outdoor movies, crafts, and themed weekend events. Christopher T. shares about Misty Mountain Camp Resort: "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Consider space requirements carefully when booking RV sites. Many campgrounds have tight turning radiuses and limited large rig accommodations. Robert M. warns about Devils Backbone Camp: "Some of the pads (#9 in our case) had a septic cap that was too high. We didn't have those things to raise the hose up, so I had to manually lift and empty the hose for the duration of our emptying."
Year-round camping access: Walnut Hills Campground remains open throughout winter months. Full hookup sites available year-round with plowed roads after snowfall. DK S. shares, "Booking was easy. Arrived after hours, staying one night. Our tag was waiting for us with a map to our RV spot with E/W by the creek and pond. It was off season, so plenty of spots and privacy."
Utility management: Power and water hookup locations vary significantly between campgrounds. Many RV sites require extension cords longer than standard 20ft. Mike G. notes about Misty Mountain Camp Resort: "Electric sites have 20a, 30a, and 50a hookups so small trailers can use a normal extension cord."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Waynesboro, VA?
What are the best campgrounds near Waynesboro, VA?
The Waynesboro area offers several excellent camping options. Sherando Lake Campground in George Washington National Forest is a standout choice with multiple camping loops, clean facilities, and a swimming lake created as a CCC project. Devils Backbone Camp is another top option, offering a clean, quiet environment with the added bonus of being near a brewery with excellent beer selections. Other notable campgrounds in the region include Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park and Walnut Hills Campground near Staunton, both providing beautiful mountain settings and well-maintained facilities.
Are there campgrounds with lake access near Waynesboro, VA?
Are there campgrounds with lake access near Waynesboro, VA?
Sherando Lake Campground offers excellent lake access with a small swimming, kayaking, and fishing lake. Located in George Washington National Forest, it's popular for both camping and day-use. Canoe Landing Group Campsite at James River State Park provides tent sites near the water where pets can swim, plus hiking trails nearby. For those willing to drive a bit further, Stoney Creek Resort near Greenville offers water activities with well-maintained facilities. These locations provide beautiful natural settings with the added benefit of water recreation options.
Is there tent camping available near Waynesboro, VA?
Is there tent camping available near Waynesboro, VA?
Tent camping is abundant near Waynesboro. Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park offers peaceful tent sites with curvy roads that keep traffic slow, making it perfect for those looking to escape for a few days. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp in George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is another excellent option with clean bathrooms, potable water, and sites where you can park directly. Many campgrounds in the area, including Big Meadows Campground, provide dedicated tent-only loops with more privacy and natural settings than RV areas.
What is the Waynesboro North 340 Campground like?
What is the Waynesboro North 340 Campground like?
Waynesboro North 340 Campground is a convenient option located right in Waynesboro with easy access from I-64. The campground offers basic amenities including water hookups, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with drive-in access. Sites are reservable, which is helpful during peak season. While not as scenic as some of the national forest campgrounds in the area, its location makes it an excellent base camp for exploring attractions like Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the many breweries and wineries in the region. The campground provides a practical option for travelers wanting quick access to both outdoor adventures and town conveniences.
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