Shenandoah River State Park sits at approximately 600 feet elevation between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Massanutten Mountain range, creating a unique microclimate for campers to enjoy. The area around Boyce, Virginia experiences hot summers with high humidity and mild winters, with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F during peak camping months. Many glamping sites remain open year-round despite seasonal fluctuations in temperature and precipitation.
What to do
River activities: Access the Potomac River at Brunswick Family Campground where visitors can fish, tube, or kayak directly from their sites. "The Shanandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," notes Brian S. Many sites are just 100 yards from water access.
Explore Civil War history: Visit battlefields and historic sites near Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, located adjacent to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. "Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door," writes Matt S. The visitor center offers shuttle service into downtown Harpers Ferry.
Experience outdoor adventures: The Cove Campground provides diverse activities including ATV trails, fishing, and even an outdoor shooting range. "This was our first time camping here and it will NOT be our last. This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," reports Ben M. The property features a lake and miles of trails for both motorized and non-motorized recreation.
What campers like
Private riverfront sites: Low Water Bridge Campground offers direct river access for many sites. "Love the fact that they have an outfitter to shuttle you up the river. We got a site right on the river bank so we just hopped out and were at our site!" RL explains. The campground provides tube and kayak rentals with shuttle service upstream for convenient floating back to your campsite.
Shaded woodland camping: Campers at Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park appreciate the tree coverage and wildlife viewing opportunities. "Big Meadow has many amenities which make it popular and oftentimes crowded during weekends and holiday's. We saw many deer and bear while camping," Rachel M. shares. Sites include bear boxes for safe food storage.
Stargazing opportunities: The elevation and distance from major cities makes the area excellent for night sky viewing. "We love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," adds Rachel M. The lack of light pollution in parts of Shenandoah National Park creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Harpers Ferry Campground sits beside active railroad tracks. "The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains," Sherri C. explains. Light sleepers should bring earplugs.
Seasonal variations in crowds: Weekends from May through October draw the largest crowds, especially at state and national park campgrounds. Spring and fall offer more availability and lower rates at most sites. Winter glamping options exist but require proper cold-weather gear and planning.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited 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," RL notes about Low Water Bridge Campground. Some campgrounds offer WiFi near their offices or stores.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Luray specializes in family experiences. "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," Anne K. reports. They offer organized activities like tie-dye shirt making and character appearances.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Multiple facilities include kid-friendly amenities. "We tent camped here on the night of December 11, 2020. The Primitive Camping spots were all taken however, so arrive early if you want one of those," notes John B. about Shenandoah River State Park. Several campgrounds offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Riverside camping with supervision: For families with water-loving children, riverfront sites require careful monitoring. "Great place! Lots to do on-site. Tent camped and really had a great time," Annie S. says about Harpers Ferry Campground. The current can be strong in some sections of the river.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling blocks. "Big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," Matt S. warns about Harpers Ferry KOA. Call ahead to request the most level sites if traveling with larger rigs.
Dump station and water fill locations: Not all glamping sites near Boyce, Virginia offer full hookups. "You can fill your water tanks as you enter the campground," Jeff H. notes about Low Water Bridge Campground. Plan water usage accordingly when staying at partial hookup sites.
Book early for premium sites: The most desirable RV sites with views book months in advance, especially during peak season. Many riverside sites have size limitations and may not accommodate larger motorhomes or fifth wheels. Several campgrounds offer luxury glamping alternatives if RV sites are unavailable.
