Camping near Maurertown, Virginia places visitors in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, with elevations ranging from 600 to 3,000 feet depending on proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer days typically reach 85-90°F. Several campgrounds close seasonally from late November through early spring, though a handful offer year-round accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible from camp: At Trout Pond Recreation Area, several trails connect directly to the campground. "The Rockcliff lake trail was rocky at spots but pretty level," notes one camper. Another mentions, "There is a Lina Constable Overlook to hike to right off the camp loop but it's 1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step. Gorgeous!"
Fishing opportunities: The Shenandoah River offers excellent fishing access from several campgrounds. At Low Water Bridge Campground, sites position you right on the water. "The sites are kept up, well equipped and the bath house is very clean. The owners are great and are happy to shuttle you up river with your tubes," one visitor reports.
Target practice: The Cove Campground features an on-site shooting range. "With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," explains a camper. Another adds, "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites."
What campers like
River access for water activities: At Rock Tavern River Kamp, glamping near Maurertown provides direct water access. "Our tent was about 20 feet from the river and the campground had everything we could have asked for," one visitor explains. Another notes, "River access, hiking near by and if you forget something town is 8 minutes away."
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows Campground offers exceptional wildlife viewing. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," shares one camper. Another visitor notes, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory."
Evening atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the area offer unique evening experiences. "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 one camper about Big Meadows.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Expect limited connectivity throughout the area. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, "No cell service. We went to the visitor center and connected to the WiFi if we needed to do something online," reports one visitor. Another notes about Low Water Bridge: "There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well)."
Weather considerations: Temperature variations require preparation. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," writes a winter camper at Big Meadows. Summer visitors should prepare for humidity and insects.
Site selection matters: The terrain creates significant differences between sites. "The only reason it didn't have 5 stars was our site was not even close to level. It probably shouldn't have been available for a 40'+ RV," notes one camper at a Jellystone Park. Research specific site reviews before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray offers extensive kid-friendly amenities. "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," one visitor shares.
Bathroom proximity: Consider distance to facilities when camping with young children. "The toilet paper ran out and the handwashing station ran out of soap and water which was disappointing," notes one visitor at Low Water Bridge, indicating the need to bring supplies even when facilities exist.
Weather readiness: Pack for temperature swings even in summer. "Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! In the valley and surrounded by beautiful mountain views it was 80 daytime and ~60 at night," explains a camper at Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Elevation challenges: The mountainous terrain requires planning. At Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, "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. Just be aware and be prepared," advises an experienced RVer.
Water management: Many sites don't offer full hookups. "Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground," suggests a visitor to Trout Pond Recreation Area. Sites with hookups book quickly.
Parking considerations: Larger rigs need careful site selection. "We were in site 12 which was small for our RV (22 ft total pulled by our F-150) but we worked it out," notes one camper. Ask about site dimensions and approach angles when booking.
