Best Campgrounds near Etlan, VA

Camping near Etlan, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Shenandoah National Park. One camper mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground," highlighting the convenience of accessing nature right from your site.
• Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies. A visitor shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," which shows how magical the nights can be.
• Fishing and Water Activities: Lake Anna State Park is a great spot for fishing. Campers have noted, "The campground was clean & the staff... were all very helpful," making it a family-friendly option for water fun.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "The bathrooms and showers are very clean," which is a big plus for those who value hygiene while camping.
• Spacious Sites: Campgrounds like Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages offer large sites. A camper remarked, "Sites are HUGE... you really feel like you’re camping, not at an RV resort."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray said, "The staff were friendly and great... they let people have fun."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mathews Arm Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "No electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm," so plan accordingly.
• Crowded Sites: Campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. One camper mentioned, "The sites were all small and very close together," which might not be ideal for those seeking privacy.
• Wildlife Precautions: Bears are common in the area. A visitor advised, "There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out," emphasizing the need for caution.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One review highlighted, "They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf," at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray.
• Plan for Amenities: If your family prefers comfort, consider campgrounds with showers and laundry facilities. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "Good clean campsites and showers," which can make a big difference.
• Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A visitor noted, "The camp store has essentials like firewood, ice, basic gear, and food," which can help if you forget something.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. One camper said, "We would not have been satisfied with the slope of more than a few of the sites here," so do your research before booking.
• Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A visitor at Wolf Gap mentioned, "Verizon was nonexistent," so download maps and information ahead of time.
• Use Generators Wisely: If you need power, check generator hours. A camper noted, "Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00," which is important for planning your day.

Camping near Etlan, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!