151 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Shenandoah Valley surrounding Grottoes, Virginia features a diverse range of camping experiences within proximity to Shenandoah National Park. Loft Mountain Campground, located approximately 15 miles from Grottoes, offers both drive-in and walk-in tent sites with bear boxes and picnic tables. Several private campgrounds like Shenandoah Valley Campground in Verona provide year-round access with full hookups for RVs. The region includes both primitive backcountry options and developed sites with varying levels of amenities, from basic tent pads to full-service RV resorts with electric, water, and sewer connections. Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations from April through October, though select private facilities remain open year-round.
Reservations are essential during peak season from May through October, particularly for Shenandoah National Park campgrounds. As one camper noted, "This campground is perfect for those looking to just get away from things for a couple of days. The drive in from Swift Run Gap or the South Entrance is fairly easy, but off the road enough that you won't hear traffic." Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, with rangers strictly enforcing regulations. Weather varies significantly with elevation, creating temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley campgrounds and mountain sites. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many camping areas, particularly within the national park boundaries and more remote forest service sites.
Mountain views dominate the camping experience, with many sites offering scenic vistas of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny ranges. Campers frequently mention the proximity to hiking trails as a major benefit, with the Appalachian Trail accessible from several campgrounds. According to one visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground, "This campground is more secluded than the others just down Skyline Drive which makes it more desirable." Facilities range from primitive (vault toilets only) to moderately developed (flush toilets and coin-operated showers). Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some reviewers noting that "the mountains echo, so every child crying is heard." Weekday camping typically offers more solitude than weekends, when many campgrounds reach capacity, especially during fall foliage season.
"This campground is perfect for those looking to just get away from things for a couple of days."
"We got a walk in site, so our tent was way far away from cars and other people. The site included a fire pit w/grill grate, picnic table, and metal bear box."
from $30 - $75 / night
Check Availability"We spent 2 weeks at SVC while our trunk was in the shop(our travel trailer got towed there- highly recommend Good Sam Roadside policy). Everyone on staff was accomodating, helpful and friendly."
"It was clean, but had a trail of ants get into my belongings. Sites are close to one another and the cabins are not near the water. They are near the bath house though."
from $36 - $132 / night
Check Availability"The winding layout allowed for more distance between other sites. The woods were beautiful with easy walking trails right from the site."
"Back in sites for smaller trailers such as our teardrop were plenty big enough but still on the outskirts of the field. Bath house was very clean and very well thought out."
from $35 - $75 / night
Check Availability"While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people."
"Our site had the AT running right behind it. The was plenty of access to trails, and pretty central to the park. The campground is near showers, laundry, campstore, and visitor center."
from $30 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Convenient to the highway and easy to get to. Sites are well spaced. Hookups were well positioned. Walking trail starts at the campground. WiFi worked pretty well. Overall a great KOA."
"Positive: Friendly staff, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit. Negative: Pricing rather high"
"Lewis mountain has all the amenities of home within walking distance if you just can’t live without them; bathrooms,showers, kitchen sink, fire pit, small store and 2 personal vehicle parking spots steps"
"Arrived before the weekend, around late morning. Greeted by the park ranger, they gave the basic information for these sites. Limited spots here. You’re pretty close to your neighbor."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Good area close to hiking trails and historical sites. Dog friendly. Only negative was the closeness of the sites."
"It was easy to get into Shenandoah National Park via Skyline Drive, which we also enjoyed. It is not too far from Polyface Farms (a conference there was the purpose of our visit)."
"It’s super close (only an hour drive) to Shenandoah NP! Host is super responsive to questions/concerns that arise but it’s not necessary to communicate with them if you prefer the privacy."
"You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything. Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure. Trash picked up each day."
"Good location close to I81 but little road noise. I did hear a train."
from $45 - $99 / night
Check Availability"Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."
"The lakeside is wonderful for sitting, reading and swimming. The "upper lake" is great for fishing. "
from $25 - $47 / night
Check Availability
GuideNo other available sites, so used tent site 35 parking spot to stay in campervan. Worked fine. Nice campground. Saw at least 10 deer along sides of road from entrance to campsite.
ScoutFirst camping trip in VA and honestly the only time we’ll come here. Noisy, plots are on the main road people speed down, loud music at all times. Plus the bathroom was great, taken care of but this isn’t camping. Great if you need people around you.
GuideStopped here on my trip from Cherokee NC to Front Royal VA on the Blue ridge parkway and skyline drive. As in most NPS campgrounds, there are no hookups but the campground was nice and the weather was great. No AC needed.
RangerCool campground in a remote part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As such, very little phone service and lots of narrow, winding roads. Plenty of hikes and several interesting little towns within 30 minutes. I thought it was an interesting mix! We had a power outage during our visit, which also eliminates water access at this site. I was grateful to have an inverter to keep us online since there is zero AT&T service. I had a pull-through site and I'm not certain that I could have made the exit if the campers ahead of me didn't leave.
GuideWe started our trip in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, all the way up the Blue ridge parkway and Shenandoah skyline drive. We stayed in NPS campgrounds all the way. Some were less well maintained than others, no power or hookups but the trip was still incredible. Matthews Arm was one of the nicest campgrounds along the way. If you need a lot of amenities than you may not like it but if you just want a peaceful night in the mountains, this place is for you.
ScoutThe wifi test was done with my starlink not the campground wifi bc it doesn't exist.
To begin with I came physically up here from SC to check availability for long term stay. I was told there was a list and I would be put on that list and if a spot became available I would be notified (8-3-26). I was called (8-23-26) with availability and request for payment I paid then on the phone. My card the next following 3 days was ran for an additional total of 2400.00 every single morning an 800.00 charge I luckily had my card locked bc if not I would have been screwed. I was not given a reason why my card was ran so many times and not even an apology. I checked in on September 1st and was put in a site completely covered with tree limbs which is a problem as the only requirement I had was a clear view of the sky for my starlink to work for my remote work. For 2 whole weeks I went back and forth with the new GM Peggy. For 2 whole weeks I could NOT work the campground wifi is non existent. I was given the run around and a disrespectful attitude saying it wasnt there fault when it was known to begin with this was an absolute NEED not a want. Fast forward to today (9-12-26) I had issues with my power pole showing a short to ground and I was told its bc the poles are grounded to themselves but finally moved. The only catch was if I was to move I HAD TO LEAVE on october 1st per PEGGY the nee GM. So because of a miscommunication between staff of mine and my families needs bc my kids homeschooling I am forced to scramble to find another campground in two weeks when we live in our camper and work OTR. Its been nothing but problems here. The water taps are full of rust the GM judges you based off how you apear and treats you like dirt under the door mat. I was hoping this would be a good fit for me and my family but it has been nothing but the worst camping experience I have had in the past 5 years. The staff themselfs are great they tried to remedy the issue day one but PEGGY wouldnt allow it. I highly recommend going somewhere else and spending your hard earned money bc this place does not respect you as a customer or tenant. I talked with many campers who have been coming here for years since the 90s and they even say and feel the same the campground has declined since a management company purchased it. Also the long term rentals will be al.ost non existent unless you've bene coming here for 4 years or more. Cable is also non existent here. Its been a very VERY bad regretful experience. The lies from management and corporate baseline excuses are disgusting. Will NEVER camp here again. Take this as your honest warning from a normal person and a combat veteran. It dont take much to please me but this place has fell well below the bar. The site is was moved to before I get kicked out because they couldnt properly meet the needs of my stay allowed my starlink to work so I will be able to work 2 weeks before I am essentially nomadic again. If your tent camping bring water boots bc the tent sites seem to hold water. ALSO DONT LEAVE HONEST REVIEWS THAT SHED LIGHT ON THE NEGATIVES AND DOWNFALLS OF THIS PLACE OR THEY WILL TELL YOU YOU HAVE TO LEAVE.
GuideGreat experience; would absolutely go back. Lucked out with weather being warm enough for swimming at the beginning of fall. Campsites set back from the road and separated by decent stands of trees from each other.
Four of five stars because designated tent pad and portions of the rest of the site (River Loop 4) were gravel over poured concrete and therefore impossible to properly stake a tent. In general, sites were spacious and well separated from neighbors. I would probably avoid River Loop sites 9 & 10, as they back on to the restrooms and have all-night light shining in.
RangerThis KOA has cozy spots among the trees and off any major road. Shower houses are squeaky clean and spots are spaced out just right! Some extra amenities: playground, camper core signage, and many other things!
TravelerNice, clean, parking lot type campground. Great pool with lots of built in splash features for kids and a big slide. No real view from site 665 ~ just the top of some mountains. No river view at all. There is a golf cart trail to the river access with parking, but then there are big steps with no hand rail. Lucky a nice man let me hold onto him walking back up. My husband was carrying the gear and couldn’t help me. It seems everyone brought a golf cart. They had rentals, but too expensive. Again ~ great for young families.
Camping sites near Grottoes, Virginia range in elevation from approximately 1,100 feet in the valley to over 3,500 feet along Skyline Drive. Winter camping remains available at select locations despite seasonal closures at most Shenandoah National Park facilities from November through March. Temperature variations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees during spring and fall months, requiring appropriate gear for overnight stays.
Fishing opportunities: The campgrounds around Grottoes offer various fishing spots with stocked ponds and natural waterways. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, campers can enjoy "decent fishing in the pond" according to Jerry G., who noted the campground's "colorful bunnies" and "pretty cool water fall" as additional attractions.
Waterfall hiking: Several trails within driving distance lead to scenic waterfall views. From Big Meadows Campground, you can access multiple waterfall trails. Anna Y. mentions the campground has "some sites with platform picnic/dining spots" making it convenient to rest after hiking excursions.
Stargazing: The higher elevation sites provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. At Dundo Group Campground, one visitor described how "at night you could see stars. We took a walk to the overlook in the middle of the night to stargaze."
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming facilities that provide relief during warmer months. Joy A. described Shenandoah Valley Campground as having "a river to swim and tube down... and a big swimming pool," noting it "really has it all" for water recreation.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts abundant wildlife, particularly deer and sometimes black bears. At Lewis Mountain Campground, Lexa L. shared that "our tent was also nestled up against the AT so we came across numerous friendly backpackers!" while others frequently mention wildlife sightings.
Camp store amenities: Many locations feature well-stocked camp stores with essentials and local specialties. At Loft Mountain Campground, Katrin M. reported "a very nice and well stocked campstore. They had everything you need... I enjoyed a blackberry shake, which is kinda famous for the area, and it was delicious."
Shower facilities: Shower availability varies significantly between campgrounds. 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 has similar pay shower facilities.
Insect activity: Bugs can be prevalent depending on season and location. One camper at Loft Mountain noted "our campsite was bumblebee invested. It was cool to watch them, but they got into everything."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region. Karen mentioned at Misty Mountain Camp Resort, "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."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreational facilities for children. Christopher T. said Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers a "very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip!" While Ryan Z. noted that Shenandoah Valley Campground had "lots to do with the family. My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds include playground facilities, though quality varies. Laure D. mentioned Walnut Hills has "a very nice playground" for children, which complements other family-friendly amenities.
Noise considerations: Sound carries differently at various campgrounds, affecting family sleep schedules. When staying at Loft Mountain Campground, Annie B. observed: "The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. You could hear people on the other side of the trees, but no one was loud and it was very quiet and peaceful at night!"
Site spacing: RV sites vary considerably in size and proximity to neighbors. At Walnut Hills Campground, Jennifer A. noted: "The campsites are very close to each other and the roads are very narrow. We can't even extend our awning due to through traffic."
Hookup variations: Power options differ between campgrounds with implications for smaller versus larger rigs. Mike G. appreciated that at Misty Mountain, "Electric sites have 20a, 30a, and 50a hookups so small trailers can use a normal extension cord," making it more accessible for varied equipment.
Level site availability: Terrain varies significantly around Grottoes, affecting RV setup. Dale Y. found Harrisonburg Shenandoah Valley KOA sites to be "large enough and level enough. The power pole is well positioned," though he noted "cell signal and camp wifi are bad."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best camping options near Grottoes?
The Grottoes area offers several excellent camping options. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views provides beautiful mountain vistas, exceptionally clean grounds, and a large dog park area. It's situated adjacent to a working farm where you might see cows, sheep, and llamas grazing near your campsite. Another top choice is Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages, featuring wooded sites with stone borders, stone walls, and stone fire pits. For those seeking a more rustic experience, nearby Shenandoah National Park campgrounds offer peaceful, natural settings perfect for getting away from it all.
What activities can you do when visiting Grottoes?
The Grottoes area offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Hiking is particularly popular, with excellent trails accessible from Mathews Arm Campground, which provides a fantastic trail to Overall Run Falls. Water activities abound near Sherando Lake Campground, a well-maintained facility in George Washington National Forest that offers swimming and fishing opportunities. The region is also known for cave exploration, scenic drives along Skyline Drive, wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing. For those who enjoy craft beverages, visiting local breweries like the one near Devils Backbone Camp makes for a perfect afternoon activity after a morning of outdoor adventure.
How do I get to Grottoes and what are the access points?
Grottoes is easily accessible from several nearby campgrounds. From Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park, you can reach Grottoes via Swift Run Gap or the South Entrance, both providing scenic drives that are fairly easy to navigate. The campground itself is situated off the main road, ensuring a quiet experience away from traffic noise. For a different approach, Devils Backbone Camp offers a convenient base with good road access to the Grottoes area. The primary access points to Grottoes are along Route 340, which connects to several secondary roads leading to various attractions and camping options in the region.
Keep Exploring
