Cabin camping options dot the landscape near Crimora, Virginia, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,300 feet in Augusta County. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows reaching 25°F. Several campgrounds operate year-round, while others close seasonally between November and March when overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Loft Mountain Campground connects directly to the Appalachian Trail. "The AT runs right through the campground," notes Katrin M., making it easy to access day hikes without driving. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to challenging all-day excursions.
Fishing opportunities: Stoney Creek Resort maintains a stocked fishing lake where campers can catch bass and trout. "Great swimming lake. Family friendly," shares Steven S. The resort doesn't require a Virginia fishing license for their private lake, though nearby public waters do.
Waterfall exploration: Within a 30-minute drive, Crabtree Falls Campground provides access to one of Virginia's most impressive waterfalls. "The campground sits along a river fed by a waterfall just a short hike away," explains Summer M. The waterfall trail features multiple observation platforms along its 1.7-mile length.
What campers like
Convenient location: Misty Mountain Camp Resort sits just off Interstate 64. "Great access, 30, 50, primitive, pull in, back in, cabin, pretty much full gamut," writes Robert H., highlighting the variety of camping cabins near Crimora. The resort's location puts it within 20 minutes of Crimora and provides quick access to regional attractions.
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows Campground offers frequent wildlife encounters. "We saw many deer and bear while camping," shares Rachel M. The campground's open meadow areas attract deer at dawn and dusk, while black bears are occasionally spotted from safe distances along hiking trails.
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds in the area offer structured activities for children. "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," writes Christopher T. about his stay at Misty Mountain Camp Resort. Many cabin camping facilities near Crimora host weekend events throughout summer.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most camping cabins around Crimora fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived during a weekday and there was more than enough availability," notes Werner S. about Loft Mountain, but adds that weekends require advance planning. For holiday weekends, reservations should be made 3-6 months ahead.
Site preferences: Lewis Mountain Campground offers more privacy than others in the region. "If you get in early there a lot of really choice sites. But even the non choice sites are great," explains Lisa D. Sites on outer loops typically provide more seclusion than those near central facilities.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the area. One visitor to Stoney Creek Resort noted, "No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!" Most Shenandoah National Park campgrounds have minimal to no cell coverage, with the best reception often available at visitor centers.
Tips for camping with families
Bunnies as entertainment: Shenandoah Valley Campground features an unusual attraction for children. "My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt," shares Ryan Z. The semi-tame rabbits roam the grounds freely and have become a campground highlight.
Playground access: Many camping cabin facilities include play equipment for children. "They have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields," writes Joy A. about Shenandoah Valley Campground. Most playgrounds are centrally located near bath houses for convenience.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations can mean unexpected temperature drops. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," reports Carol B. from her fall visit to Big Meadows. Even summer nights can require light jackets for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research site dimensions carefully. "Our site 112 had water, 50amp and cable. Dump station on premises," shares Mimi B. about her stay at Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park. Most cabin camping areas near Crimora also accommodate RVs with varying hookup options.
Elevation considerations: The mountainous terrain means steep drives and significant elevation changes. "The campsite has a firepit, a bench, and a picnic table. Our site was definitely spacious," notes Katrin M. about Loft Mountain, though she cautions that mountain driving requires care for larger vehicles.
Bathroom facilities: RVers appreciate clean facilities even when traveling self-contained. "The bathhouse was close and clean with laundry and dump site next to it. They pick up trash each morning and have propane refill," writes DK S. about Walnut Hills Campground. Most area facilities maintain multiple bath houses spread throughout the campgrounds.
