Shenandoah River State Park sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, offering campers diverse terrain from riverside flats to wooded hills. The area receives moderate rainfall even in summer months, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Washington DC. Winter camping remains popular with nighttime temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F at most local campgrounds.
What to Do
River adventures: Float or kayak the Shenandoah River at Harpers Ferry Campground, with sites directly on the water. Paddling options range from calm waters to light rapids depending on recent rainfall. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver," notes a camper.
Hiking trails: Explore marked paths through historic Civil War battlefields near Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA. The park connects directly to the Appalachian Trail with both challenging and easier routes. A visitor comments, "Beautiful to walk in and historical markings throughout the park describe the Civil War events here."
**Waterfall hunting: Visit multiple cascades within a 30-minute drive of Marshall, including Overall Run Falls (93 feet) and Little Devils Stairs. "Beautiful views, tons of hiking & biking trails. Wildlife is visible everywhere you go. The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," says one Shenandoah River State Park visitor.
What Campers Like
Private riverside sites: Low Water Bridge Campground offers waterfront camping where you can fish directly from your site. Sites 15, 31, and 32 are particularly noted for privacy and river access. A camper reports, "We loved our stay at a tent site on the river in June 2022. It was peaceful, and we spent a lot of our stay in the water."
Clean facilities: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathroom facilities with private shower rooms. "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers," says one visitor.
**Mountain views: Several glamping sites near Marshall provide panoramic vistas. One visitor to Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views noted, "Wow, what a view! Sunset over the mountains from our campsite each evening. Who could ask for more?"
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping close to Marshall, Virginia operates April through November. Off-season camping requires advance planning as many water systems are winterized. "We stayed here on the night of December 11, 2020. No problem finding a spot, campground was about half full when we got there around 4pm. The Primitive Camping spots were all taken however, so arrive early if you want one of those."
Train noise: Campsites near railroad tracks experience regular train traffic. At Harpers Ferry Campground, trains pass regularly day and night. "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," reports one camper.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. Verizon service is particularly weak in valley areas. "There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well). You'll have to drive 10-15 in either direction on Rt. 211 before you can catch a signal," notes a Low Water Bridge camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer best chances to spot deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Keep food secured at all times in provided bear boxes where available. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," shares one visitor to Big Meadows Campground.
Ranger programs: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for children. Inquire at visitor centers about junior ranger programs and seasonal events. "Big Meadows Campground was wonderful. Facilities were clean and well maintained. Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife," a camper reports.
Entertainment options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray features extensive kid-friendly amenities within 30 miles of Marshall. "This isn't my idea of camping, but I brought my 11 year old nephew. He was able to run around and make friends with his aunt always looking over his shoulder. He had lots of fun at pool, movie night, making s'mores, and jumping on bouncy mound."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant blocking. Pack additional leveling equipment for mountain terrain. "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Water fill stations: Not all sites with electric hookups have water. Fill tanks before arrival at some campgrounds. "You can fill your water tanks as you enter the campground," notes a Low Water Bridge camper.
Campground spacing: Site sizes vary dramatically between parks. Research specific site dimensions before booking large rigs. "The sites are not piled on top of each other. Our site, B112, was surrounded by shrubs under the canopy of trees which provided tons of privacy."
