Camping areas near Crimora, Virginia sit in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valley and mountain sites. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F in the valley while dropping 10-15 degrees at higher elevation campgrounds. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking with panoramic views: The Appalachian Trail runs directly through Loft Mountain Campground and connects to multiple trails with varying difficulty levels. "One of the best sites I've had the fortune to stay at recently... The view is unreal, especially for sunset," notes Anna B., who appreciates the scenic overlooks accessible from camp.
Swimming in natural settings: Shenandoah Valley Campground offers creek swimming with a natural waterfall for cooling off. "They have a really nice creek for tubing with waterfall to cool down on the hotter days," according to Gabe, who spent two weeks at the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and natural waterways provide fishing options throughout the area. Sherando Lake Campground maintains both upper and lower lakes for different fishing experiences. "There are big loop and small loop hiking trails close by," notes Jean J., who frequently visits for the lake fishing and surrounding trails.
Brewery visits: Many campers incorporate brewery tours into their outdoor adventures. "It is very quick drive to lots of hiking, including the Appalachian Trail. You are also a stone's throw away from a ton of other really great breweries and wineries," explains Erika S. about her stay at Devils Backbone Camp.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The area's campgrounds consistently maintain high standards for bathhouses and amenities. "The bathhouse was close and clean with laundry and dump site next to it. They pick up trash each morning and have propane refill, if needed," reports DK S. about their stay at Walnut Hills Campground.
Lake access and swimming: Natural water features rank high among camper favorites. "We spent 3 months here and absolutely loved it! There's always tons of activities to do for everyone of age... And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar, restaurant," notes Evelyn T. about Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer regular wildlife encounters, particularly deer sightings. "We were certainly surprised to have a deer family join us during dinner. The mountain remained fogged in for most of our stay, but hikes on the AT and Doyles Falls were stunning," shares Cindy M. from her experience at Loft Mountain.
On-site camp stores: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores for essentials and forgotten items. "The nearby camp store had all the necessities. Lots of hiking along skyline drive, and a few trails around the campground," writes Annie B. about her visit to Loft Mountain Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are active throughout the region, particularly at national park campgrounds. "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," warns Lisa M. about her experience at Sherando Lake Campground. Most campgrounds provide bear boxes or require proper food storage.
Weather variations: Mountain campgrounds experience rapid weather changes and significant temperature differences from valley locations. "The mountain remained fogged in for most of our stay," reports Cindy M. about Loft Mountain Campground, highlighting common mountain weather patterns.
Cell service limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have limited connectivity. "No cell service. We went to the visitor center and connected to the WiFi if we needed to do something online," notes Veronica S. at Big Meadows Campground, reflecting a common situation at higher-elevation sites.
Reservation demand: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "The only drawback is that many people love this park and it is difficult to get reservations. The window opens six months out and are usually booked for the high season summer months," explains Linda C. about Sherando Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activities: Family-oriented campgrounds often schedule regular activities. "We enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground," reports Christopher T. about Misty Mountain Camp Resort, a dog friendly campground near Crimora that provides structured entertainment.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: Sites near bathhouses prove convenient with children. "We always get campsite A13, which is right across from the bathrooms. Very convenient with kids," advises Katie M. about her regular visits to Sherando Lake Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain elevations can experience significant temperature changes. "This year the weather was cooler than it usually is, so we got to enjoy some of the other aspects of the park since it was too cold to swim," notes Katie M., highlighting how weather impacts activities at Sherando Lake.
Choose sites with natural barriers: Sites with natural divisions provide better containment for families. "The site is pretty secluded with trees, so you can't see your neighbors," mentions Katie M. about Sherando Lake Campground, describing the privacy beneficial for families with active children.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. "If you stay at a full hook up site and are parked in an odd number spot, you will need an extra long sewer hose to reach the connection... The sewer connection for the odd number sites is on the opposite side of the RV than the electricity and water," warns Erika S. about Devils Backbone Camp.
Consider site topography: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. Some sites are more private than others, so do a little scouting if that's what you want," advises Annie B. about her experience at Loft Mountain.
Verify length restrictions: Mountain roads and campgrounds often have size limitations. "The tent loop is the oldest loop in this campground, and is heavily wooded, with sites along both meadow and backing up to the mountain. These sites do not have any hookups, but most have driveways large enough for campers and RVs 28' in length or under," explains Stephanie J. about Sherando Lake.
Be prepared for tight turns: Several pet-friendly camping areas near Crimora have narrow interior roads. "The campsites are very close to each other and the roads are very narrow. We can't even extend our awning due to through traffic," cautions Jennifer A. about her experience at Walnut Hills Campground.
