Cabin camping near Elkwood, Virginia centers around the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 600 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s and winter temperatures that can drop below freezing. Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations, with peak season running May through October when fall foliage transforms the landscape.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: Access the famous AT directly from Lewis Mountain Campground. "The sites are secluded, there's bathrooms that are in good shape, and it's super close to some awesome hikes and great sunset lookouts! We loved being able to hang our hammocks and watch the wildlife roam around," notes a Lewis Mountain visitor.
Fish at Lake Anna: Christopher Run Campground provides lake access for anglers and boaters. "This campground has access to lake Anna and is clean... quite times 9 and they have security going around to remind everyone," reports one visitor. Rentals include canoes for those without personal watercraft.
Explore disc golf courses: Both Bull Run Regional Park and Pohick Bay Regional Park maintain 18-hole disc golf courses. "I like this campsite particularly because its close to one of my favorite waterfall hikes in VA. The site is run by the National Park so all the basic amenities are available at the site," mentions a Bull Run camper.
What campers like
Private riverside spots: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park offers rustic sites directly on the Southfork. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins. Park and campgrounds are clean and well maintained," notes a Shenandoah River State Park visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows Campground provides frequent wildlife encounters. "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," reports a Big Meadows camper.
Mountain views: Cabin rentals at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views offer panoramic vistas. "Wow, what a view! Sunset over the mountains from our campsite each evening. Who could ask for more?" writes one visitor. "You can tell the new owners are making some upgrades including improving the utilities and adding wi-fi."
What you should know
Shower facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds charge for showers. At Loft Mountain, "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters." Big Meadows offers similar pay showers while cabins at Wilderness Presidential Resort include private facilities.
Seasonal closures affect amenities: Campgrounds maintain different operating schedules. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30)... Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground. Elevation above 3000 feet and plenty of deer! It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F," notes a Big Meadows visitor.
Wildlife precautions required: Bears are present throughout the region. "We were there during a heat wave so there were bugs but being from Georgia the heat was bearable. Speaking of bears- there were lots of siting and they take food clean up seriously. You can be fined for leaving food out," warns a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Wilderness Presidential Resort offers multiple water options. "It's a good place to bring your family to play some Frisbee golf, The RV spots are like being in the woods, indoor pool, lake to swim or fish. You can rent paddle boats and Jon boats," reports a visitor.
Playgrounds and activities: Jellystone Park Luray maintains extensive play facilities. "We stayed here for 3 nights in August for our little guy's 8th birthday. It was perfect for kids! 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!"
Bathroom proximity: Consider cabin location relative to facilities. "The bathroom was a nice short walk away, but the proximity did have some drawbacks. The vent sounds like a diesel truck idling nonstop. At night people using flashlights and headlamps walking away from the bathroom shine them into your tent," notes a Big Meadows visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electrical concerns: Check power reliability before setting up. "While camping at this resort we had several issues with the shore power for our RV. We have spoken to many fellow owners only to find out they had several issues that have been reported to management with no resolution," cautions a Wilderness Presidential Resort visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Pohick Bay Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "We stay here at least 6 trips a year. Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," notes one RVer. Bring additional leveling blocks for problematic sites.
Campsite selection timing: Arrive early for premium sites. "Out of the 31 sites (including host site), only 3 remained when we arrived at about 1:45 PM on a Friday afternoon, and those remaining filled up within the hour. Especially in the busier months of the summer, I would suggest arriving prior to 11 or 1130 AM if you're trying to get a site on a Friday or Saturday night."
