Several RV parks near Hinton, Virginia accommodate large motorhomes with utility hookups. Located in the Shenandoah Valley at elevations between 900-1500 feet, these campgrounds experience cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Most parks remain open from March through November, though some offer year-round camping with reduced winter services.
What to do
Explore caverns: Endless Caverns offers discounted tours for campers. Guests staying at Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages can explore the connected cave system. "The cavern tour 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," notes Clark P.
Hike local trails: Several campgrounds feature on-site hiking paths. At Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA, campers can access trails directly from the property. "Great hiking trail into the hills and woods at the back of the property. Gave me and my pups a chance to run, walk & stretch," says Kathy L. The KOA offers a peaceful setting about 3 miles from Highway 81.
Fish in stocked ponds: Many parks maintain fishing areas. Fort Valley Ranch provides fishing opportunities for families in their stocked ponds. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," mentions Jason G. No fishing license is required for these private ponds.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots. At Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park, certain locations provide more separation. "Our site 33 was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck," explains Laure D., who appreciated that it "was separated from the site on one side."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Bathhouses receive high marks. Walnut Hills maintains excellent bathrooms according to visitors. "The bathhouses were pristine," states Kate A., who found it "one of the cleanest parks I've been to." Most parks charge $3-5 for showers for non-registered guests.
River access: Waterfront camping is available. Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River provides direct river frontage for recreation. "Great proximity to Shenandoah National Park while still being close enough to a Walmart and fuel. Easy to access sites, great for larger rigs," reports Casey L., who also mentioned "amazing views of the mountains and riverfront access for tubing."
What you should know
Cellular connectivity varies significantly by location. Some parks offer Wi-Fi, though quality differs. "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," notes Dale Y. about the Harrisonburg KOA. Verizon typically provides better coverage than AT&T throughout the region.
Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Most RV parks close completely or reduce services between December and March. Water lines are typically shut off during freezing weather. Some parks like Walnut Hills operate year-round but with limited amenities during winter.
Site leveling can be challenging at mountain locations. Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort provides relatively flat sites compared to other area campgrounds. "Sites are large and level, but close to one another and open," reports Jean C., adding that the park offers "dark sky and an open field for stargazing."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for parks with dedicated play areas. Endless Caverns RV Resort offers several options for children. "The 'resort' features include a pool, laundry, pickleball courts, volleyball courts, disk golf, horseshoes, picnic tables and fire rings, a kid's activity area, a rec center that includes an arcade, swings, and tables," according to Sara M.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences. Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm provides a unique camping setting with educational components. "We got a nice tour of the mushrooms currently growing at the farm. The camp area sits under a canopy of cedar trees," explains Ralph P. The farm offers insights into sustainable agriculture practices.
Water activities: Nearby river access provides recreation options. Many children enjoy the Shenandoah River access points near campgrounds. "The fact that they have developed hiking/walking/running paths, a 'dog park', and a spot to go swimming were pretty outstanding," notes Melissa W. about Luray RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Mountain access considerations: Some parks require careful navigation. Endless Caverns RV Resort accommodates large rigs but requires attention to road conditions. "Roads are gravel and can be a bit steep, 4-wheel drive is helpful," explains Clark P. Campers may need to use lower gears when ascending to higher elevation sites.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites fill quickly in peak season. Smoke Hole Caverns RV Resort provides complete utilities for those requiring them. "Only 10 sites right on the river. Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable," mentions Rob F. Reservations for summer weekends should be made 2-3 months in advance.
Seasonal considerations: Fall foliage attracts crowds. October weekends experience the highest demand at most RV parks near Hinton. "We reserved our spot for another week in the Fall at a discount before leaving," shares Sara M. about Endless Caverns, highlighting the importance of planning ahead during peak seasons.
