Camping spots near Gore, Virginia range from fully developed campgrounds to primitive sites along creeks and rivers. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,000 feet in the northern Shenandoah Valley, with more rugged terrain to the west. Wildlife areas and state forests in this region typically see temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night, even in summer months.
What to do
Creek exploration: At The Cove Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing and swimming in the lake. "You drive deep into the woods to get here, which gives it that true, off-the-grid campground feel. There are several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots," notes Karl S.
Target practice: The Cove Campground offers an outdoor shooting range alongside recreational activities. "On top of them having an outdoor gun range... they have a small beach, picnic tables everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats, ATVs welcome," reports Shanna B.
River activities: Camp Cacapon provides access to clean river water for swimming and relaxation. "The river water were so clean and fun to swim in. We really love this place and the people who own it," says Itai, who visited in September.
What campers like
Goats and wildlife: Many campers appreciate the animal encounters at The Cove Campground. "One unique (and awesome) touch: there are goats casually roaming around the campground. It adds a fun, unexpected charm to the place," shares Karl S.
Secluded sites: Berryville Berries offers privacy while remaining accessible. "Very nice and secluded location where you feel like you're the only people out there. Camped right by the creek and couldn't have asked for more!" says Adam B. Another camper notes it "has all the feel of being remote and isolated, but it's actually in very short range of all the amenities you'd ever need."
Rustic facilities: Hawk Recreation Area Campground provides basic amenities in a peaceful setting. "The campsites are well-built and serviceable, but don't expect working water or much else in terms of maintenance. It's free, of course, and have I mentioned that it's quiet and secluded?" writes Aaron W.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. At Lazy A Campground, one camper noted: "The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet and we had to replace all our water filters after one weekend."
Cell service limitations: Reception varies greatly throughout the region. "It's worth noting that cell service is minimal to nonexistent at The Cove — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind," mentions Karl S.
Road conditions: Green Ridge State Forest requires careful driving. "Bear in mind that some of the back roads are pretty rough so you'll ideally want a car with decent clearance," advises Andrew M. Another camper adds, "a good portion of the campsites are reached by notoriously thin and rough roads."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options for kids. "The beach is large and clean" at The Cove Campground, according to Christopher K., who camped there with a pop-up camper.
Playgrounds and recreation: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners. Campground access to the Shenandoah River," notes Laura N., who recommends it for first-time campers.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Camp settings vary in noise level and amenities. "The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too" at Shenandoah River State Park, according to Melissa T., making it ideal for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Look for established sites with level ground. At Green Ridge State Forest, one RVer shared: "We stayed at campsite #1 off of 15 mile creek Road. Only a mile or so from I68. We have a 25' travel trailer and most places we scouted we probably couldn't take it. Site 2 looks not too bad but a little less level."
Hookup availability: Candy Hill Campground offers facilities for RVers but has specific restrictions. One visitor warns: "Stay Away if Your RV is Not RVIA Certified" and explains, "We have a 25' travel trailer and most places we scouted we probably couldn't take it. Site 2 looks not too bad but a little less level."
Road access considerations: Many camping areas have limited access for larger vehicles. "Don't recommend taking a large travel trailer on 15 mile creek Rd south of I68. Lots of S turns and pretty steep for my skills," cautions Josh G. about Green Ridge State Forest.
