Shenandoah River State Park sits at elevations ranging from 540 to 1,400 feet along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River near Etlan, Virginia. The region receives approximately 40 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forest conditions across the Blue Ridge foothills. Campgrounds in the area often experience temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night, even during summer months.
What to do
Paddle the Shenandoah River: Low Water Bridge Campground offers direct river access with convenient shuttle services for tubing and kayaking. "They took us up river and dropped us so we could kayak back. Their store had everything that we had forgotten with good prices," notes Christopher L. The campground's location allows for floats ranging from 3-8 miles depending on water levels.
Explore hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to hiking networks without requiring a vehicle. As one Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA visitor mentions, "Close to Harrisonburg with all the great breweries! The bathhouse was clean and blissfully warm. There's great hiking nearby." Many trails offer moderate difficulty ratings suitable for varied fitness levels.
Night sky viewing: Big Meadows Campground provides exceptional stargazing opportunities away from urban light pollution. "We love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," shares Rachel M. The campground's 3,500+ foot elevation creates clearer atmospheric conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Big Meadows Campground offers reliable wildlife viewing throughout its grounds. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," reports Rachel M. Another camper observed, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached."
Private riverside sites: Low Water Bridge Campground features secluded waterfront spots with direct river access. "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," advises one camper. These sites allow visitors to paddle directly to their campsites after floating downriver.
Clean facilities: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground maintains exceptionally well-kept restrooms and showers. "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms," notes Adam and Suzanne B. This attention to cleanliness makes the park particularly appealing for longer stays.
What you should know
Off-season benefits: Big Meadows Campground offers extended season camping through mid-November with fewer crowds. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30) and shared the campground with a mix of tent campers, car/van campers, and a few larger units. The bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water, and a utility sink available," reports Carol B. However, late season camping requires preparation for cold nights.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited connectivity. 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." Visitors should download maps and information before arrival.
Elevated glamping options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray provides premium glamping near Etlan, Virginia with multiple accommodation types. "We had a great time at Jellystone. The Mountain View is gorgeous. The sites are kept up, well equipped and the bath house is very clean," shares Amy I. These sites include electricity, water hookups, and activities not found at traditional campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA offers specialized facilities for younger campers. "The staff were top notch with plenty of amenities to offer. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. Try their fried pies," recommends Todd C. The campground includes a swimming pool, playground, and organized activities during peak season.
Primitive riverside options: Several campgrounds offer walk-in tent sites ideal for introducing children to more rustic camping. "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," warns Anna R. at Big Meadows. These sites typically require proper food storage practices.
Entertainment variety: Families appreciate the diverse activities available at luxury glamping locations near Etlan. "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!" shares Jen O. about Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views offers varied RV site options with different amenities. "We stayed in a level back-in site(#39) with picnic table on a concrete patio, Adirondack chairs under a pergola on a second concrete patio, clean gravel surface, and fire pit. The site was big enough for our motor home and Jeep," reports Matt S. Reservations for these premium sites often require booking 3-6 months in advance.
Road conditions awareness: Access roads to many campgrounds in the region feature steep grades requiring caution. "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," warns Matt S. about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views. Some campgrounds recommend disconnecting towed vehicles before navigating entrance roads.
Utility positioning: Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River features strategically placed hookups. "The RV sites at this campground are very spaced out, you have a lot of room to each side of your RV. The park and facilities were very clean," notes Joe. The campground's 30/50 amp service and water hookups accommodate larger rigs while maintaining site separation.
