Shenandoah Valley camping sites near Stanley, Virginia range in elevation from 700 feet in river valleys to over 3,000 feet at higher campgrounds on Skyline Drive. Weather conditions vary dramatically between these elevations, with mountain temperatures often 10-15°F cooler than valley locations. Several campgrounds operate on different seasonal schedules, with smaller facilities like Lewis Mountain typically opening mid-April through October.
What to do
Hiking from your campsite: At Lewis Mountain Campground, trails connect directly to your site. "This campground is right next to the AT and convenient to closer hikes like Bearfence Mountain (probably my favorite hike in the park - beautiful 360 degree views from the rocky summit) and the short trail up to Lewis Mountain itself," reports camper Danielle V.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades can be reached via moderate hikes. "There are several campsites available at this National Park. I like this campsite particularly because its close to one of my favorite waterfall hikes in VA," notes Tom C. about Big Meadows Campground. Mathews Arm Campground offers access to Overall Run Falls via a trail from the parking lot.
Cavern tours: The region features extensive underground systems beyond just Luray Caverns. Endless Caverns RV Resort combines camping with cave exploration. "The Endless Caverns actually adjoin the office welcome center and tours are offered multiple times daily. It would be tough for arthritic knees… but we really enjoyed the raw nature of the caverns," says Sara M.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer frequently pass through campgrounds at dawn and dusk. "We had a doe and fawn right in our campsite!" reports Stephen K. from Mathews Arm Campground. At Loft Mountain Campground, "When we woke up on the morning we were checking out, we didn't want to leave! Definitely coming back soon!" shares Annie B.
Night sky viewing: Higher elevation sites provide exceptional stargazing conditions on clear nights. "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 Big Meadows experience.
Privacy options: Secluded tent sites can be found at several campgrounds. "My daughter picked site A33g since it was secluded and we were unlikely to have neighbors during our midweek visit. It was a bit of a walk through lush greenery from the car to the tent site, but once there, you really feel like you are the only humans on the mountain," shares Cindy M. about Loft Mountain.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While most campgrounds offer flush toilets, shower availability differs. At Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA, "Laundry room, bathrooms, and shower are well maintained and clean. The camp store isn't well stocked for food but local shopping is minutes away," reports Dale Y. At Loft Mountain, "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters," notes Katrin M.
Temperature extremes: Mountain sites experience significant temperature fluctuations. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F," reports Carol B. about a November stay at Big Meadows. Plan for temperature drops after sunset, particularly at higher elevations where winds can be intense.
Food storage requirements: Bear activity necessitates proper food management. "There are no bear boxes at this campground, but there are indeed bears, so keep all food in your car," advises Eric K. about Mathews Arm Campground. Bear boxes are available at other locations like Big Meadows.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Select sites near play areas for convenience with children. At Luray RV Resort, "Easy to access sites, great for larger rigs! If you have kids definitely get closer to the playground, you won't regret it!" recommends Casey L. The resort also offers riverfront access for tubing.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities engage children in learning about local ecology. "The campground has a nice communal feel, doesn't get rowdy, has water and bathrooms, and isn't too crowded," shares Leslie B. about Lewis Mountain. At Big Meadows, "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground," reports Kim L.
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer swimming or water play areas. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, "The primitive spots are right next to the river. The spots are a short walk from the parking area and the campground provides wagons to transport your stuff. Great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," says Matt P.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloping terrain. "Our site was not even close to level. It probably shouldn't have been available for a 40'+ RV. Still, we would go back...just to a different site location," warns Jen O. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Luray.
Utility placement: Check hookup locations when selecting sites. At Endless Caverns RV Resort, "The power pole is well positioned. Many FHU sites in our area (C) are large enough for a trailer, TV and a clam," reports Sara M., who adds that "The higher sites might require your TV have 4WD."
Signal considerations: Internet and cell connectivity vary widely. "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-Shenandoah Valley KOA, while others report better connectivity at lower elevation campgrounds.
