Mountain camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 feet in elevation, creating temperature variations of 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Many tent sites along waterways provide natural white noise from flowing creeks and rivers. Primitive camping areas typically have longer access roads with gravel surfaces that can become rough after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Crabtree Falls Campground offers easy access to one of Virginia's highest waterfalls. "The falls are a great hike and there are lots of services nearby. A great Parkway stop," notes one visitor. The campground sits along a river fed by the waterfall with several trails leading from the camping area.
Brewery exploration: Devils Backbone Camp provides a unique camping experience with direct access to the brewery complex. "A short walk through the tent area brought you to the large brewery area. This area includes a brewpub, large outdoor seating area with fire pits and an outdoor stage," according to one reviewer. Nearby hiking options include two property trails plus access to the Appalachian Trail.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple pond and lake fishing options exist at campgrounds across the region. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, "There's also a huge playground with volleyball and basket ball court near the pavilion. Along with a small arcade room and a huge fire pit ring to hang out at. Not to far from there is a dog run for both big and small and a fishing pond next to it."
What campers like
River access: Sites along waterways rank among the most popular. At Crabtree Falls Campground, "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night." Many campers appreciate the white noise for sleeping and cooling effects during summer months.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathrooms despite high visitation. "This campground has some of the nicest facilities of any campground I've stayed at. We camped in a trailer on a site without hookups," reports one Devils Backbone Camp visitor. Sherando Lake Campground maintains similar standards with recently renovated facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Unexpected wildlife encounters enhance camping experiences throughout the region. "Lots of great site options for whatever your preference is! It's also a convenient walking or driving distance from the rest of town," says one visitor to Glen Maury Park. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, "the grounds are very nice, lots of trees, level sites, some grass, lots of activities for the kids. Tent sites by the river, a pool, hot tubs, store, cafe with limited items. Laundry facility. Wild but tame bunnies are everywhere."
What you should know
Phone service limitations: Cell reception varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, "No wifi, no cable and cell service is limited - definitely not good for Verizon. There were no fewer than half a dozen people walking around with their phones held high trying to get a signal." Even at developed rv parks near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, connectivity remains spotty.
Seasonal closure schedule: Many forest service campgrounds close completely during winter months. While private rv parks remain open year-round, amenities like pools and outdoor activities typically shut down after October. Sherando Lake Campground operates from April through October with limited shoulder-season services.
Weekend crowding: Reservations become essential during peak months. "We were staying here with our two children and no dogs. As far as that's concerned was a great place! Lots for them to do, great swimming lake, employees were a pleasure," notes one Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley visitor, but cautions that weekend crowds can transform the experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist beyond standard pools. "Great swimming lake. Family friendly," reports one visitor about Stoney Creek Resort. Some locations offer both lakes and streams, providing different water experiences within the same property.
Wildlife experiences: Unexpected animal encounters delight younger campers. "What a great spot this is. They have it all. Fishing lake, river to swim and tube down, They have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields...They also have walking trails and a resident population of semitame bunnies," describes a Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley visitor.
Playground access: Sherando Lake Campground maintains family-friendly facilities with modern playgrounds. "It's a decent walk from the campground but we usually walk down in the morning and spend all day there. There is great hiking! Beautiful views everywhere. Friendly people. They have activities during the summer like outdoor movies and live music," notes one regular visitor.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement challenges: At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, site configurations sometimes create hookup difficulties. "If we had camper with slide, we would not have been able to use our slide in this site. The private shower rooms are nice and clean. The roads are rough dirt and gravel and not conducive to bike riding." Several rv parks near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests have similar utility placement issues requiring extension hoses or cords.
Level site availability: RV site leveling varies widely between campgrounds. "Access was easy. The campground was busy and everything was clean and neat. The sites were a little tight. We were there for the local hiking so we didn't spend too much tie in the park," reports one Walnut Hills visitor.
Dump station quality: Maintenance of waste facilities impacts departure experiences. At Stoney Creek Resort, "Had a BW site booked that just didn't work out. Needed an overnight stay late on a Saturday afternoon and this CG was available. Staff was extremely pleasant and friendly. Ate at their on-site restaurant while a local band played outside." While many locations offer dump stations, quality and cleanliness vary significantly.
