Shenandoah River State Park camping offers rustic to modern accommodations in Virginia's rolling mountain landscape between 500-1,500 feet elevation. The region features four distinct seasons with moderate rainfall and summer highs typically in the 80s. Primitive campsites often remain available during weekdays even in peak season, while yurt camping near Edinburg, Virginia provides shelter options during occasional summer thunderstorms.
What to do
River activities: Low Water Bridge Campground provides direct Shenandoah River access for fishing, swimming, and tubing. Sites are strategically positioned along the riverbank with varying water access points. One visitor mentioned, "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins."
Hiking nearby: The area features trails suitable for all skill levels. Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA offers on-site hiking options. A camper noted, "This campground backs up to a great hike... Close to Harrisonburg with all the great breweries! Eat at Golden Pony." Another visitor shared, "There is a designated footpath from the campground to the public boat launch next door."
Stargazing: Big Meadows Campground offers prime night sky viewing due to its elevation and distance from light pollution. One camper recommended it "for the star watching at night." The open meadow areas provide unobstructed viewing areas, and rangers occasionally host astronomy programs.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise in this region. A visitor to Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views shared, "The site was level, at least 28 was. You can't go wrong with the pergola and mountains view. Note that the most pull-thru in the inside of the camp are closers to each other than sites around the camp."
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local animals. At Big Meadows, one camper noted, "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience." Another mentioned, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory."
Waterfront camping: Low Water Bridge Campground specializes in riverside sites. A visitor explained, "The river sites are worth the few extra bucks, but they book up fast. You have to call in your reservations - can't book online." Another camper advised, "I would avoid overflow #3 due to the proximity of portapotties."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. At Low Water Bridge Campground, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Campground availability follows predictable patterns. One camper at Trout Pond Recreation Area noted, "The area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1." Weather conditions also impact camping experiences: "Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! In the valley and surrounded by beautiful mountain views it was 80 daytime and ~60 at night."
Yurt options: Yurt camping near Edinburg provides a comfortable alternative to tent camping. #1 Rock Tavern River Kamp offers riverfront yurts with basic amenities. The owner states they are "located on the Shenandoah River! Our waterfront unique kamp offers yurts and tent sites along with a well maintained bathhouse! Come visit us for the perfect Glamping experience — open year round!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray features extensive recreation options. A visitor shared, "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!" Another noted it's "awesome spot for family camping! Very nice and clean!"
Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities. Big Meadows provides "nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs." These programs typically focus on local ecology, wildlife, and history, offering hands-on learning opportunities.
Swimming options: Various campgrounds feature swimming areas with different amenities. At Trout Pond Recreation Area, visitors enjoy "swimming in crystal clear water." One camper reported: "Swimming is excellent with sand beach. Big catfish in clear water. Water was so clean that it was throbbing with a freshwater jellyfish."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose camping spots based on your specific needs. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, "Park and campgrounds are clean and well maintained. Tons of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park." Another RVer noted, "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges. When visiting Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, be aware that "The drive in requires about 25-miles through the roller coaster of steep grade(7+%) hills. There's no way around that, you're in the mountains. Just be aware and be prepared."
Hookup details: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Trout Pond Recreation Area, "It states online that it's only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites." Another camper discovered: "We found that sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU (not sure what amp electric though). While 3, 5, 7, and 9 are designated Host spots, site 3 had the sign covered and an RV using it."
