The Shenandoah Valley surrounding Harrisonburg, Virginia encompasses numerous camping options ranging from developed facilities to primitive sites. Established campgrounds include the Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA, which operates year-round with cabin accommodations, tent sites, and RV hookups. The nearby Shenandoah National Park hosts several campgrounds including Loft Mountain, Big Meadows, and Lewis Mountain, each offering varying levels of amenities across different elevation points. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at locations such as Switzer Lake, approximately 20 miles west of Harrisonburg in the George Washington National Forest.
Camping seasons vary significantly throughout the region, with most Shenandoah National Park facilities operating from May through October. Winter camping remains available at select locations like the Shenandoah Valley Campground and Harrisonburg KOA. Fire restrictions apply at certain campgrounds, particularly at higher elevations within the national park. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak fall foliage season when visitor numbers increase substantially. The region experiences moderate snowfall in winter months, which may restrict access to dispersed sites and primitive areas. A visitor noted, "Nice mountain atmosphere and wilderness atmosphere with very friendly staff and clean restrooms."
Campers consistently mention the convenience of locations that balance natural settings with proximity to services. Several campgrounds feature amenities such as swimming pools, camp stores, and shower facilities, while others maintain a more rustic character. The Natural Chimneys Regional Park provides access to distinctive geological formations alongside standard camping facilities. Sites near water features like rivers and lakes receive particular attention in reviews. Elevation differences between campgrounds affect temperature and wildlife viewing opportunities, with higher-elevation sites in Shenandoah National Park offering cooler temperatures during summer months. A camper described one location as having "great sites that are nice and flat and shady with huge fire pits," highlighting the appeal of well-maintained facilities within forested settings.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$30 - $75 / night
"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."
"Close to Harrisonburg with all the great breweries! Eat at Golden Pony. The bathhouse was clean and blissfully warm. There’s great hiking nearby. Would definitely return."
"Halloween was in full effect including a haunted walk. Sites are spacious and have natural stone in ground fire pits instead of rusted metal rims which adds character."
$30 - $75 / night
"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."
$45 - $249 / night
"We didn’t do the cavern tour, but did take advantage of their hiking trails onsite. It is well worth the effort to climb up to their sign to take in the views. There are picnic tables up there."
"July 10-19, 2020 As my wife and I were discussing my review, I asked her what could we point to to take away from a 5-star rating. Neither of us could think of a single thing."
$36 - $132 / night
"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."
$25 - $30 / night
"Convenient location, nice setup with tables and chairs around 2 firepits, space to spread out, and plenty of firewood provided. Friendly host. Thanks!"
"Accessibly located and cute as all get out!"
$30 / night
"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."
$5 / night
"If you live in Harrisonburg, Bridgwater and any surrounding area, this place is amazing. Fair warning, this place is DARK DARK, but your campers, so."
"The first camp sites are easy to get to are close to bathrooms and a creek if you keep going down the road the road does get pretty rough and I wouldn’t recommend any cars or less the 4 wheel drives at"
$23 - $44 / night
"If you're lucky enough there might be some neat events nearby."
"Natural Chimmneys is on a river and has hiking trails."
"Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road."
"Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot."
LegendWe stayed in site #27 for two nights. It was a walk-in tent site, but the car was very close. The site offered plenty of privacy. We could see the other sites, but they weren't close. We had a nice bear box and good hammock trees, plus a picnic table and decent tent sites. Lots of deer walked through our site in the morning, and we had easy access to several trails.
ScoutShowers are well removed from the center of activity
Also the personalities at the office are extremely short
GuideThis is an awesome campground that is definitely worth the cost. The sites are really nice, there’s a decent bathhouse and you can walk to the brewery for beers and food. Plus the area is beautiful!
TravelerVery nice spot, good tent setup pads and fire rings at all the sites, my one complaint is that it is right next to the road that while not frequently used, the occasional car can often take away from the remote experience. There are some sites a little further in but the diff is minimal. Overall very great, well maintained spot
ScoutThis KOA was quiet and perfect for a short stay. We enjoyed our time here. The staff was friendly.
GuideI chose Big Meadows to stay at because my traveling companion is definitely a bit bougie and was anxious about camping in the mountains of a NP. Due to this site having showers, toilets, a laundromat, camp store(s) and even a lodge/taproom, they felt more comfortable. We stayed at site D142, right near the entrance by the registration office and showers. I didn’t expect the site to be so nice and quiet and still feel quite private despite the location! We checked out the loops and besides the tent sites, I actually preferred our site. We stayed the week before Memorial Day weekend and I was pleased with how quiet it was. Quiet hours were strictly adhered without rangers having to ask, other campers were respectful toward each other and we had no issues. The NP staff were awesome and the concession employees for the showers, camp store, and the Wayside grill were genuinely friendly and obviously cared about their jobs, which I sincerely appreciate. Wayside grill with attached camp store was fun and had some great gift items as well as some pretty solid quality hiking and camping items. The grill even had a beyond burger which I greatly appreciated! The lodge was funky but not my cup of tea, the taproom was ok, although the employees were really nice.
It did rain half the time we were there with extremely heavy fog so we only did a few hikes but they were still a lot of fun. We didn’t see any bear either! The number one animal we had invade our campsite on the regular were birds. Two catbirds regularly tried to involve themselves in everything, including landing on a pot of oatmeal I was actively cooking and standing next to! We followed leave no trace of course but any chance the birds got, from catbirds, robins, brown thrashers, towhee, and even a redstart, they would try to investigate.
There is clean drinking water listed on the campsite maps, there are utility sinks for grey water (don’t use the bathroom sink!), bathrooms were always clean and bathrooms and showers are open 24/7 and are well lit. I didn’t buy the firewood so I’m unsure how much it is but the little camp store was open from 9-6 (right by the bathroom) for firewood, ice, and other various supplies.
Only downsides to the site are 1) showers are not cheap ($5 for 10 mins) and don’t stay warm for long so you’re showering in chilly water. Some stalls last a bit longer than others. 2) The biggest issue though was surprisingly the bear boxes. They are quite large and fit a lot of stuff which is great. However, you are expected to keep your cooler in them. I have a bear proof cooler (IGBC) so I’ve never had to experience this situation before. The bear box being made of metal, heated everything up in it which caused rapid melting of ice. Despite pre-chilling it and my ice usually lasting for days and days, we had to refill it daily. The camp store thankfully sold ice (10 lb bags for $5) but it was frustrating that there was no other option for bear proof items. I didn’t fight the rangers regarding it because it’s their rules, it’s for the safety of the bears and people, and the rangers and park staff have enough stuff to deal with.
All in all, I’ve never really glamped before so it was quite a luxurious trip even with the rain and fog for half the trip. I’ll most definitely be back and would even stay at the same site or a tent only site with no driveway.
ScoutBeautiful and secluded. Primitive camping area for boondocking or tent camping. Large enough to set up several electric pens for horses.
GuideMy wife and I stayed here one night, while driving south to north, Skyline Dr. the drive has been awesome and this campground is the perfect resting spot for us, for the night. Had a couple drinks at the lodge while watching a spectacular sunset. I’d definitely come back.
ScoutClean facilities, each site has plenty of space. Never had an issue with noisy neighbors. Excellent access to the river. 10/10
Dispersed camping sites surround Harrisonburg, Virginia within the George Washington National Forest. Located 20 miles west of the city, Switzer Lake offers primitive camping along shorelines and wooded areas with elevation changes of 1,500-2,500 feet. Campers need to prepare for complete self-sufficiency as these areas lack facilities and cell service.
Hike to waterfalls: At Big Meadows Campground, numerous waterfall trails are accessible. "With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," notes camper Rachel M.
Cave exploration: Endless Caverns RV Resort provides onsite cavern tours at discounted rates for campers. "Their cavern tour (discounted for guests at the RV park) was lovely. Marked well, lighted, relaxed. Our tour guide, Haley, was a sweetheart, taking time for the two little kids, and still giving the information older people like," writes Clark P.
Fishing opportunities: The stocked waters near Hone Quarry Campground offer active trout fishing. "The river that runs right by the campground was recently stocked with trout and they were very active," reports Michael S.
Forest trails: Multiple hiking paths connect directly from campsites at Lewis Mountain Campground. "The AT runs right through the campground," explains Max O. "Bearfence is just down the trail, you can walk out of camp and start hiking."
Private sites: Loft Mountain Campground offers secluded camping spots despite its size. "We had a great time staying here, the site we were at was pretty private behind our camper. Bushes and trees on all sides of our fire ring and picnic table," shares Shane T.
Natural features: The limestone formations at Natural Chimneys Regional Park provide unique geological interest. "The Natural Chimneys are awesome. The park is flat with nice campsites and a stream that varies from year- it runs underground some years," mentions Meridith M.
Wildlife viewing: Bear and deer sightings are common at several Harrisonburg VA campgrounds. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," reports Rachel M. about Big Meadows Campground.
Fireflies: Summer campers can expect impressive displays of fireflies. "The fireflies are spectacular. At dusk, the ground shimmers, and then after they disperse, you will still see them flit by the tent throughout the night," writes Veronica S. about her experience at Big Meadows.
Road conditions: Access to Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping requires careful driving. "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you," warns Mike C.
First-come basis: Lewis Mountain Campground operates without reservations. "Reservations are first-come, first-served, which makes it a bit tricky. 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," shares Danielle V.
Bathroom facilities: Restrooms vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. Ice, propane, and other items are available on site at the store," reports Zach L. about Harrisonburg Shenandoah Valley KOA, while another camper noted that Hone Quarry has vault toilets only.
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "Cell signal and camp wifi are bad. I was just able to get a decent signal with Starlink by carefully pointing at a small gap between trees," explains Dale Y. about the Harrisonburg KOA.
Activities for kids: Shenandoah Valley Campground provides multiple recreation options. "They had an awesome pool that was heated, hot tubs, mini golf and good playgrounds. My kids were in heaven," shares Lo H.
Wildlife education: Use deer sightings as teaching moments at Big Meadows. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," explains Veronica S.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground," notes Kim L. about Big Meadows.
Pet policies: Check which areas allow dogs before planning. "Our dogs were welcomed and we felt right at home! One of my favorite NPs and definitely my favorite camp spot in the park!" writes Molly G. about Lewis Mountain Campground.
Site selection: At Harrisonburg Shenandoah Valley KOA, certain sites offer more privacy. "Very nice valley location. Site 71 best for privacy," advises George H.
Hookup locations: Check the positioning of utilities when setting up. "The sites are large enough and level enough. The power pole is well positioned," reports Dale Y. about the Harrisonburg KOA.
Road grade considerations: Endless Caverns has elevation challenges. "Roads are gravel and can be a bit steep, 4-wheel drive is helpful," cautions Clark P.
Seasonal recommendations: Fall offers special camping experiences. "Halloween was in full effect including a haunted walk. Sites are spacious and have natural stone in ground fire pits instead of rusted metal rims which adds character," mentions Zach L. about his October stay at the Harrisonburg KOA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in and around Harrisonburg, VA?
Harrisonburg offers excellent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA stands out with its prime location between Harrisonburg and Luray, offering amenities like a pool, playground, and helpful staff who deliver firewood and collect trash. For budget-friendly options, Hone Quarry is a local favorite just outside Harrisonburg, offering clean campsites for only $5 per night with a payment box up front. Though very dark at night, its proximity to town and fishing opportunities at the nearby pond make it an excellent choice for Harrisonburg residents and visitors alike.
Are there any RV campgrounds near Harrisonburg, Virginia?
Yes, Harrisonburg has several excellent RV campgrounds nearby. Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages offers beautiful, spacious sites with stone borders, walls, and fire pits. This former NASCAR resort features easy-to-level sites and underground utilities at each site. Another premium option is Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, which offers stunning mountain views and sits adjacent to a working farm where livestock graze near campsites. The grounds are beautifully maintained with an exceptionally large dog park, a nice pool, and friendly staff. Both campgrounds provide full hookups and accommodate various RV sizes while offering proximity to Harrisonburg's attractions.
What fun activities are available at camping places near Harrisonburg?
Camping near Harrisonburg offers diverse recreational opportunities. At Devils Backbone Camp, you can enjoy the adjacent brewery with excellent craft beers and occasional live music while staying at a clean, quiet campground. Hiking enthusiasts will love Red Creek Campground, which serves as an excellent jumping-off point for numerous trails throughout Dolly Sods (open April-December). For families, Natural Chimneys Regional Park near Mount Solon provides unique geological formations to explore. The Harrisonburg area also offers excellent brewery tours, fishing opportunities, and easy access to Shenandoah National Park's scenic drives and hiking trails.
What are the best tent camping options near Harrisonburg, VA?
Tent campers near Harrisonburg have several excellent options. Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park offers a perfect escape with sites set back from roads for peace and quiet. The campground's curvy internal roads keep traffic slow, creating a serene tent camping experience. Another great option is Sherando Lake Campground in George Washington National Forest. Popular with visitors from Richmond and Charlottesville, this well-maintained campground features beautiful lake access and multiple camping loops. For those seeking a truly rustic experience, consider Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping which offers drive-in and walk-in access with free camping.
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