Cabin camping near Delaplane, Virginia provides access to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to 1,800 feet. The region receives approximately 43 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions with diverse wildlife. Most cabin facilities maintain operating seasons from April through November, though some locations offer year-round availability depending on weather conditions.
What to do
River access activities: Low Water Bridge Campground offers direct access to the Shenandoah River for fishing, tubing, and kayaking. "The staff was great from beginning to end. They took us up river and dropped us so we could kayak back," notes one visitor. The campground features many waterfront sites where you can exit directly from the river to your campsite after floating.
Historic exploration: Located near Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, campers can explore numerous historic sites within a short drive. "Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car," explains a recent visitor.
Wildlife observation: Shenandoah River State Park Campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife in natural habitats. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," reports one camper. The park features numerous hiking trails through wooded areas where wildlife sightings are common.
What campers like
Riverside camping: At Low Water Bridge Campground, waterfront sites are particularly popular. "We loved our stay at a tent site on the river in June 2022. It was peaceful, and we spent a lot of our stay in the water," shares one camper. The campground offers sites directly on the riverbank, allowing for immediate water access.
Clean facilities: Big Meadows Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "Campground is meticulously clean with daily restroom cleaning and trash pick up. Very small campground store on site but a much larger store at visitor center," mentions a camper. The campground provides bear boxes for food storage at each site.
Proximity to trails: Cabin accommodations provide easy access to hiking opportunities. "Lots of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park. This state park is adjacent to Shenandoah National Park and is just as beautiful and rich in history!" reports a visitor to Shenandoah River State Park. Most cabins are located within 1-2 miles of trailheads.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Big Meadows Campground is open "May 6 to November 13," according to their listing. During off-season months, options become more limited and advance booking is essential.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well). You'll have to drive 10-15 in either direction on Rt. 211 before you can catch a signal," warns a visitor to Low Water Bridge Campground.
Train noise concerns: Harpers Ferry Campground is situated near active railroad tracks. "The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains," explains one reviewer. Consider bringing earplugs if you're a light sleeper.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "The kids loved running off in the open field and playing on the zip line. We loved that we could see them from our site. The birthday boy also loved the outdoor laser tag!" shares one parent. These structured activities can keep children engaged throughout your stay.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "One of my favorite campgrounds - particularly when I bring first time campers. Clean grounds and importantly clean facilities. Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners," notes a visitor to Shenandoah River State Park.
Educational opportunities: Big Meadows Campground provides ranger-led programs. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," mentions a camper. These programs typically run 30-45 minutes and teach children about local wildlife, plant identification, and regional history.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Harpers Ferry KOA, a camper warns, "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." Request information about site grading when booking.
Dump station access: Low Water Bridge Campground provides facilities for waste disposal. "Electricity is on the RV site, there is a dumping place for black/grey water," notes a camper. Most cabin-focused campgrounds offer limited RV hookups, so verify availability before arrival.
Width restrictions: Bull Run Regional Park offers spacious sites for larger vehicles. "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," explains a visitor. Check road width restrictions when traveling to more remote cabin locations as some access roads may be narrow.
