Best Campgrounds near Delaplane, VA
Delaplane, Virginia offers a range of camping options within close proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Sky Meadows State Park Campground serves as the primary camping destination directly in Delaplane, featuring hike-in tent sites approximately one mile from the parking area. Other developed campgrounds within driving distance include Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground in Bentonville with tent, RV, cabin, and yurt accommodations, and Mathews Arm Campground in Shenandoah National Park, which accommodates both tent and RV camping. The region includes established campgrounds with varying amenities as well as dispersed camping opportunities in more remote areas.
Camping in the Delaplane area requires some planning, as many sites have seasonal availability and specific access requirements. Sky Meadows State Park, open year-round, offers a backcountry camping experience with tent-only sites accessible via a one-mile hike on the Hadow Trail. Most campgrounds in the region feature basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, though services vary significantly between locations. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Blue Ridge foothills, with summer temperatures often reaching the 90s and winter bringing potential snow and ice. A camper at Sky Meadows noted, "The hike-in gets mostly uphill in the second half with plenty of tree roots and decent sized rocks. The campsites themselves were great, with plenty of space for 2-3 tents, bear lockers, bathrooms with hand sanitizers, and friendly park rangers."
The camping areas surrounding Delaplane provide visitors with diverse natural experiences. Several campers highlight the scenic landscapes found throughout the region's campgrounds, from mountain vistas to riverside settings. Sky Meadows State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its secluded campsites and access to hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail. A visitor described it as "a fantastic campground for a beginner backpacking experience in the real backcountry." Campers should be aware of wildlife presence in the area, including bears, which is why bear boxes are provided at Sky Meadows sites. Watermelon Park Campground, located near Berryville, offers riverside camping with tubing opportunities during warmer months. The camping experience throughout the region balances natural seclusion with varying levels of amenities based on the specific campground chosen.
