Cabin camping options around Hinton, Virginia span across the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 3,500 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing between November and March, while summer highs average 80-85°F. Most rental cabins in the area require two-night minimum stays during peak season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Stokesville Campground offers direct access to four miles of flow trails within the property plus connections to George Washington National Forest trail systems. "There is an awesome swimming hole on the North River, Four miles of flow mountain bike trails inside the campground with endless miles of trails just outside," notes a visitor about the Stokesville Campground.
Fishing: Walnut Hills Campground features stocked fishing ponds for guests. The campground offers cabin rentals in a hilltop section with views of their fishing lake. "The sites are large enough and level enough. The power pole is well positioned. While convenient to II 81, the campground is far enough away that there is no outside noise at all," shares a camper at Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park.
Waterfall hikes: Loft Mountain provides access to multiple waterfall trails. "Lots of hiking along skyline drive, and a few trails around the campground. When we woke up on the morning we were checking out, we didn't want to leave! Definitely coming back soon," says a reviewer about Loft Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Private cabin sites: Lewis Mountain cabins offer more seclusion than other park accommodations. "Lewis Mountain is my favorite of the campgrounds up there. It has a nice communal feel, doesn't get rowdy, has water and bathrooms, and isn't too crowded. The sites are adequate and spaced enough apart to not be sleeping on top of your neighbors," reports a visitor to Lewis Mountain Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature water recreation. "This campground has an awesome location between Harrisonburg and Luray/Shenandoah. It has great amenities like a pool and playground, a camp store and lots of friendly and helpful employees. I love that they will pick up your trash and deliver firewood," says a camper about Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows offers reliable deer and wildlife sightings. "Facilities were clean and well maintained. Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Fire ring with grate was available. Large site size. We had site 23. Highly recommend," notes a visitor to Big Meadows.
What you should know
Shower costs: Most park cabin facilities charge for showers. "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters," explains a camper at Loft Mountain Campground.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage regulations are strictly enforced throughout Shenandoah National Park. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows," shares a reviewer.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin camping areas have limited 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," reports a visitor to Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "Great place to camp with a built in fire pit and picnic table. The camp staff were extremely friendly and helpful, and the pizza they sell is to die for," notes a visitor to Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Junior Ranger programs: The national park offers children's activities on weekends. "Beautiful views, tons of hiking & biking trails. Wild life is visible everywhere you go. the children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," explains a camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
River activities: Several campgrounds feature river access for family recreation. "Family camping trip and we tagged along in our tent. We've been priced out of our area so pleased to find this hidden gem. A small, comfortable, family run campground that has enough amenities to keep the littles entertained and adults relaxing," shares a visitor at Rivers Edge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some cabin and RV areas require careful setup. "Site 50 is a bit strange. Camping area is big enough for a small rig but the power pedestal is far away, so you might have to be creative in setting up. Unless you have a long power cord or don't hook up at all," explains a visitor to Misty Mountain Camp Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season cabin camping offers quieter experiences but some reduced services. "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. Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground," notes a camper at Big Meadows.
Dump station locations: Most camping cabins near Hinton don't have sewer connections but offer nearby dump stations. "We stayed a Friday night and there was more than enough availability. Nice small trail that runs around the campground. The campstore offers more than enough! We bought a smores-kit, very handy. I dont know if there are (enough) full hook ups?" shares a visitor to Loft Mountain Campground.
