Dispersed camping options near Delaplane, Virginia extend beyond the established campgrounds in the region. Located at approximately a 1,000-foot elevation in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area experiences temperature fluctuations that can drop below freezing in winter months and reach highs in the 90s during summer. Nearby Shenandoah River and its tributaries provide anglers with smallmouth bass fishing opportunities, while the surrounding forests offer terrain varying from gentle slopes to steep rocky paths.
What to do
Tubing on Shenandoah River: During warmer months, Watermelon Park Campground offers affordable tube rentals with shuttle service. "Cheap tube rentals with busses that take you 2-3 miles up the road and drop you at boat landing. Bring your own tubes and have a camp member drop you off as well," explains a camper at Watermelon Park Campground.
Hiking on varied terrain: Trails connect many campgrounds to larger trail systems including the Appalachian Trail. At Sky Meadows State Park Campground, hikers enjoy "the South Ridge Trail and found a bear track after the Cpt. Morgan Trail on the creek side of Hadow Trail!" according to one camper who documented wildlife encounters.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent opportunities to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," notes a visitor to Big Meadows Campground.
Mountain biking: The area features both beginner and intermediate trails. "Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners," mentions a camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for swimming and relaxation. "Gooney's is run by a lovely woman named Pam. She went out of her way to make our camping trip a success. We landed the prime spot all the way at the back of the campsite, nearest to the swimming hole," shares a visitor to Gooney Creek Campground.
Backcountry solitude: Campers seeking quieter experiences appreciate the secluded sites. "The hills are fantastic for helping each site feel like a little private oasis. Even if the campground is full, I think most of the sites would still feel shaded and private because of how they're dispersed throughout the hills," notes a camper at Sky Meadows State Park.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies provide excellent night viewing. "The sites are lined up right next to each other. I recommend staying away from A72 to the end of A. They're lined up too closely for my taste, and there isn't much shade. I liked our site A55 and thought A56-A61 were nice sites," advises a camper at Mathews Arm Campground regarding optimal site selection for both privacy and views.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms are adequate. There is potable water and a utility sink near the bathrooms, but there are no showers. The closest (coin-operated) showers are about 30 miles south at Big Meadows Campground," notes a Mathews Arm visitor.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change quickly. "We needed every layer we brought, including winter hats, puffy jackets, and gloves. During the 6 days we were in the backcountry, we experienced everything from warm summer-like weather to chilly winter winds," shares a backpacker at Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites.
Wildlife precautions: Black bears are active throughout the region. "The black bears are awake and active! Be sure to hang your food or bring bear canisters. We not only saw bear scat all around, we saw an adorable black bear cub run off into the woods along the Piney Branch Trail," cautions a dispersed camper.
Seasonal water crossings: Spring brings high water levels on trails. "The creeks (runs) and springs are really flowing this time of year, with some nearly thigh deep. We didn't see a single bridge, though there were a few creeks that had downed trees or make-shift rock crossings," notes a hiker in Shenandoah.
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "When we entered a sparsely populated park in mid-afternoon on a Monday in October, those sites were already taken. By evening, the park was half full. Arrive early in the day if you don't have a reservation, especially later in the week," advises a Mathews Arm Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my grandkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," explains a visitor to Bull Run Regional Park.
Swimming access: Several locations feature water recreation options for children. "Great campground for families. Views of river and mountain towering above campground on opposite side. Cheap tube rentals with busses that take you 2-3 miles up the road and drop you off at boat landing," recommends a Watermelon Park visitor.
Site selection for families: Some campgrounds group family sites together. "Super Rad Spot. We stayed here for a night - I was meeting up with family so they were able to accommodate us by making sure we had a big enough spot for two cars. PLUS she goes out of her way to make sure all the kids/families are next to each other," shares a Gooney Creek Campground camper.
Educational opportunities: The area offers historical sites that complement outdoor experiences. "There are tons of amenities here. Really great for beginner campers. Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Lots of history near by so check out the old battle fields and buildings that housed troops during civil war," notes a Bull Run Regional Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have size restrictions. "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," warns an RVer at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Seasonal availability: Most RV-friendly campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "The closest (coin-operated) showers are about 30 miles south at Big Meadows Campground, the next campground on Skyline Drive. Bathrooms are newer/nicer at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain," advises a Mathews Arm Campground visitor.
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road in is very narrow so our motorhome had a little difficulty getting in, but we made it! There is only a dumping station," notes an RVer at Watermelon Park Campground.
