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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
