Camping spots near Luray, Virginia range in elevation from 700 feet in the valley floor to over 3,500 feet along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Temperatures can vary significantly between these elevations, often 10-15 degrees cooler at higher altitudes than in town. Wildlife encounters are common at most camping areas, with proper food storage required for safety and to avoid fines.
What to do
Hiking directly from camp: Big Meadows Campground offers several trails accessible right from your site. "There are so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," writes Rachel M. The campground's location along Skyline Drive provides easy access to numerous day hikes.
Cave exploration: When staying at Mathews Arm Campground, you're positioned to visit multiple cave systems in the area. "The ranger at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center near the Front Royal (North) Entrance Station was extremely helpful. We told her we planned to try 3 of the 4 campgrounds as we drove north to south on Skyline Drive and wanted hiking recommendations," reports Mary S.
Water activities: From fishing to swimming, many campers enjoy water recreation. "You can hike to Overall Run Falls from a trail in the parking lot near the campground and turn this into a loop hike by returning a different way," notes one visitor to Mathews Arm. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River," according to Ricki F.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings are frequently mentioned in reviews. "Lots of wildlife. Bears are a real thing here. They'll fine you for leaving food out," notes Anna R. about Big Meadows Campground. At Endless Caverns RV Resort, a visitor noted, "Care has been given to support the original trees and native plants. The 'resort' features include a pool, laundry, pickleball courts, volleyball courts, disk golf, horseshoes, picnic tables and fire rings."
Nighttime experiences: The dark skies at many Luray camping areas offer exceptional stargazing. "The campground is quiet at night in my little corner of camp and I could walk out a bit from my site and see the entire night sky which was amazing!" writes Crystal C. about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views. At Lewis Mountain Campground, another reviewer appreciated that "It has a nice communal feel, doesn't get rowdy, has water and bathrooms, and isn't too crowded."
Privacy levels: Different campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The spots are secluded, there's bathrooms that are in good shape, and it's super close to some awesome hikes and great sunset lookouts!" writes Molly G. about Lewis Mountain Campground. At Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites, "These sites are backcountry meaning they are not established sites. You just wander down the trail and pick your favorite spot with consideration to not disturbing as much nature as possible."
What you should know
Weather variations: Be prepared for significant temperature fluctuations. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," reported Carol B. at Big Meadows Campground, which sits at over 3,500 feet elevation. Many campgrounds at higher elevations experience much colder nights than expected.
Reservation requirements: Availability varies significantly by season and campground. "Check online for seasonal pool closures if you are planning on taking a dip," advises Crystal C. about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views. At Lewis Mountain Campground, "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."
Access challenges: Mountain roads present navigation issues for some vehicles. "The drive in requires about 25-miles through the roller coaster of steep grade (7+%) hills. There's no way around that, you're in the mountains," notes Matt S. about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views. At Endless Caverns, "Roads are gravel and can be a bit steep, 4-wheel drive is helpful."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families. "They have a pool, pillow trampoline, playground, basketball court," writes Cory D. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray. "The kids loved running off in the open field and playing on the zip line. We loved that we could see them from our site. The birthday boy also loved the outdoor laser tag!" adds Jen O.
Educational opportunities: Rangers offer programs at many locations. "The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," notes Melissa T. about Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park. At Big Meadows, a reviewer highlighted the "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important with children. "We had a doe and fawn right in our campsite! Just be careful of the black bears," warns Stephen K. about Mathews Arm Campground. Bears are active in the region, and many campgrounds enforce strict food storage rules to prevent unwanted encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choosing the right site can make a significant difference. At Creekside Campground, "We paid $50/night for Back-in Creekview FHU Site #20. Once I was able to negotiate a few big trees, the site was plenty roomy and right on the water," writes Matt S. Another camper advises, "You NEED site 13."
Utilities and hookups: Options vary widely between campgrounds. "Sites are large and easy to level out at," reports a reviewer about Endless Caverns RV Resort. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, "Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter."
Maneuvering challenges: Some sites require careful navigation. "Sites in section E appear tighter with less shelter. The higher sites might require your TV have 4WD. Be very particular with your site selection!" advises Sara M. about Endless Caverns. Another visitor to Creekside Campground notes, "If you're coming into town from I-81 don't follow Google Maps to the left on Main St, but rather follow the signs to turn right– it makes for an easier access."
