North of Harrisonburg and south of Elkton, Port Republic camping spots offer access to the western slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 1,000-3,500 feet. The terrain features limestone formations, hardwood forests, and several creek systems including the Middle River. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during day and 55-65°F at night, while spring and fall camping often requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
What to Do
Hiking to waterfalls: Venture to Lewis Mountain Campground for direct access to Bearfence Mountain trails. "Awesome hikes nearby including waterfalls and rock scrambles," notes Anne K., who recommends this campground for its central location to Shenandoah's natural features.
Tubing on creek systems: Shenandoah Valley Campground offers a creek with a waterfall perfect for summer cooling. As camper Joy A. describes, "You can have a tent right on the river across from a beautiful waterfall. They also have walking trails and a resident population of semitame bunnies."
Astronomy viewing: Dark skies make stargazing excellent at higher elevations. "At night the you could see stars. We took a walk to the overlook in the middle of the night to stargaze," reports Kate about her experience at Dundo Group Campground, noting the minimal light pollution.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening wildlife viewing opportunities abound. "We saw a lot of wildlife there including bucks and bears," reports Jennifer S. from her stay at Lewis Mountain, highlighting the benefits of quiet observation during dawn and dusk hours.
What Campers Like
Quiet camping spaces: Lewis Mountain Campground receives praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "This campground is known as the quieter campground in the park, since it is primarily tent campers, and the quiet hours are enforced," explains Danielle V., contrasting it with larger, more RV-oriented campgrounds.
Family-friendly amenities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort earns high marks for activities. Christopher T. shares, "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground."
Location convenience: Many campgrounds serve as ideal basecamps for regional exploration. "Great location to get to Shenandoah NP, Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, and wineries," notes reviewer C O. about Endless Caverns, emphasizing the strategic positioning for various day trips.
Camp stores and provisions: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores. "The camp store has a lot of stuff! The showers are $5 for 10 minutes," reports Katrin M. about Loft Mountain, though cautioning about shower costs.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: First-come, first-served campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Out of the 31 sites (including host site), only 3 remained when we arrived at about 1:45 PM on a Friday afternoon, and those remaining filled up within the hour," warns Danielle V. about Lewis Mountain, suggesting arrival before 11:30 AM to secure a site.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, "The biggest negative is lack of cell service/internet. Luckily it's a short drive to get service," reports Gabe, noting this was their main complaint during a two-week stay.
Seasonal facilities: Some campground amenities operate seasonally. "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground," notes Carol B. about her late-season November camping at Big Meadows when temperatures dropped to 14°F.
Bear awareness: Multiple campgrounds require bear-safe food storage. "The site included a fire pit with grill grate, picnic table, and metal bear box," notes Anna B. about Loft Mountain, highlighting the importance of proper food storage in bear country.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: Harrisonburg Shenandoah Valley KOA offers multiple play areas. "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," shares Katie M.
Nature discovery: Multiple campgrounds feature natural learning opportunities. Ryan Z. at Shenandoah Valley Campground remarks, "My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt," highlighting how wildlife viewing engages children.
Swimming access: Several campgrounds maintain pools for summer relief. "The have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields," observes Joy A., noting the variety of activities available to keep children engaged.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities teach children about local ecology. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," reports Kim L. about Big Meadows, indicating these programs are suitable for family participation.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Endless Caverns RV Resort offers spacious RV accommodations. "Wooded, stone borders, stone walls, and stone fire pits at every site, plus full hookup at each site. They cater nicely to big rigs, offering numerous pull-through sites as well as back-in sites," explains Clark P.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for site leveling. "Sites were large and easy to level out at," notes reviewer C O. about Endless Caverns, suggesting minimal leveling blocks needed at most sites.
Site privacy variations: Privacy between sites varies significantly. "Sites in C usually back up into a wooded or naturally landscaped area that allow a nice sense of woodsy privacy. Sites in section E appear tighter with less shelter," advises Sara M. about Endless Caverns, recommending careful site selection.
Off-season considerations: Winter camping requires preparation for limited facilities. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30)... It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," shares Carol B. about her late-season experience.
