The Shenandoah Valley's Crimora area sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, offering campers a strategic base for exploring both the Blue Ridge Mountains and valley attractions. Campgrounds near Crimora experience distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage, hot summers that average 85°F, and mild springs ideal for outdoor activities. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities with temperatures typically ranging from 25-45°F.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: At Crabtree Falls Campground, visitors can access one of Virginia's most impressive waterfalls with a 2.5-mile trail. "The falls are a great hike and there are lots of services nearby. A great Parkway stop," notes Anna R. The campground provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail. "The AT is also close by and easily accessed," confirms Britt S.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds for guests. "The fishing ponds are great, bring a fishing pole!" advises John D. at Walnut Hills. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, "decent fishing in the pond" is available according to Jerry G., with some campgrounds even providing fishing access along creeks or rivers.
Swimming options: During summer months, several campgrounds feature swimming areas beyond standard pools. "Great swimming lake. Family friendly," reports Steven S. about Stoney Creek Resort. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, a "really nice creek for tubing with waterfall to cool down on the hotter days" provides natural water recreation according to Gabe.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "Sites are right on the river, we had a walk to which gave us some extra privacy," notes Heather L. about Crabtree Falls Campground. The campground's unique layout provides direct water access from sites. "The sites along the upper area near the lake were shaded mostly, some more than others," explains Laure D.
Wildlife encounters: Unique to several campgrounds are semi-tame wildlife populations. "My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt," shares Ryan Z. about Shenandoah Valley Campground. The colorful resident rabbit population adds charm to the camping experience. "Wild but tame bunnies are everywhere," confirms Karen.
Natural shade: Many campsites throughout the region offer tree cover. At Endless Caverns RV Resort, "This is a lovely RV park built up a mountain side overlooking the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, located in a deep old hardwood forest. Care has been given to support the original trees and native plants," explains Sara M., noting the thoughtful site design.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall remains extremely busy in the region. "We stayed here for two weeks in early March. Newly renovated campground with a lot of amenities," notes John H. about Madison Vines RV Resort, highlighting shoulder season as a less crowded alternative.
Site selection importance: Careful site selection matters significantly at most campgrounds. "Be very particular with your site selection!" advises Sara M. about Endless Caverns. At Walnut Hills, "first arrived weary of storm headed our way only to find out our campsite was the only in our section that wasn't a flood zone," reports madison F.
Connectivity limitations: Internet and cell service varies dramatically. "No wifi, no cable and cell service is limited - definitely not good for Verizon," warns Karen about Shenandoah Valley Campground. At Endless Caverns, "While Wi-Fi routers are set up at the bathhouses, we had some connection at the trailer. We picked up a dozen channels on our antenna and the 2-3 bar Verizon LTE enabled us to stream some channels on Fire TV."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer multiple recreation options. At 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," shares Christopher T. The campground includes various planned activities throughout the season.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds maintain updated playground equipment. At Glen Maury Park, "There is a playground that is very nice!" notes Sara L. Many campgrounds feature multiple play areas distributed throughout the property.
Budget stretchers: Several campgrounds offer discount programs or mid-week specials. "Called last minute and got a site. Very nice customer service. Grounds were very well kept. Our site 112 had water, 50amp and cable. Dump station on premises. They honor Good Sam discount. Paid $38 with discount," shares Mimi B.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: RV sites near Crimora, Virginia often require some leveling equipment. At Glen Maury Park, "our site was somewhat level," notes Aaron S. At Misty Mountain Camp Resort, "Site 50 is a bit strange. Camping area is big enough for a small rig but the power pedestal is far away, so you might have to be creative in setting up," warns Mara S.
Hookup accessibility: Many campgrounds provide full hookups but configuration varies. "Electric posts support four different sites, so needed to drag out the extension cord. But, power was good," advises Rick G. about Glen Maury Park. At Madison Vines RV Resort, "The sewage connection was slightly higher than the black tank outlet on our Airstream," warns John H.
Site spacing considerations: Space between RV sites varies significantly across campgrounds. "Sites were large and easy to level out at," notes C O. about Endless Caverns. At Madison Vines, "Space was maximized but that added to the community feeling most quickly embraced!" observes Steve M., highlighting the social aspect of closer sites.
