9 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Fort Valley Ranch offers 45 campsites with electric, water, and sewer hookups that accommodate both tents and RVs. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring for camping with horses. The campground received a perfect 5-star rating from visitors who appreciate the access to equestrian trails in George Washington National Forest. Drinking water is available throughout the property, and amenities include shower facilities, flush toilets, and trash collection. The campground provides trailer parking and maintains sanitary dump stations for extended stays.
Located near Luray, Virginia, the ranch connects directly to bridle trails traversing the Massanutten Mountain range. Riders can access miles of woodland trails with scenic mountain views without having to trailer horses between rides. The natural terrain offers varied riding experiences from gentle slopes to more challenging routes. Horse owners should note that while no dedicated horse corrals are listed in the amenities, riders typically bring portable corrals or high-line systems. The campground enforces strict rules regarding manure management and horse containment to maintain the natural environment. Group equestrian camping is possible with advance reservations, making this location suitable for clubs and organized trail rides seeking bridle trail camping experiences in the Shenandoah Valley region.
"The bathroom was just a short walk away. There are no hookups in this campground. We did drive to the shower house and paid a fee to take a shower. "
"While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people."
from $30 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Lots of people on horses running around which we loved, and good live music after dinner. Could get muddy if you're there after rain"
"Lodge close by if food, warmth, or better restroom desired."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"It's located in Gordonsville, Virginia. There's not much to do in the area, but the campground itself is nice."
"Walked around the property and saw the horses and checked out the primitive sites."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"It is about 5 miles from the summit of Spruce Knob (highest peak in West Virginia). Tow campers smaller in size can certainly make it, although mostly tent camping which I like. "
"Sites are well situated, and very private. Especially the walk up sites, they're the real gem. Every site has a picnic table and fire ring."
from $15 - $32 / night
Check Availability"There is Rockcliff lake and small beach area, an overlook (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!"
"The area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1. The site was super clean and well maintained. Lots of hiking trails and a very easy one that loops around the Rockcliff Lake."
from $25 - $105 / night
Check Availability"We recently stayed at Fort Valley Ranch Campground, near Luray, VA and I can only say good things about our experience and the FVR's management."
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Large enough to set up several electric pens for horses."
"I go there to climb and both sites are close to the rocks. I have camped there just about every month of the year. Be forwarded this entire area has no cell service due to the Green radio telescopes."
LegendI grew up going to this campground. It's located in Gordonsville, Virginia. There's not much to do in the area, but the campground itself is nice.
There is a nice pool, arcade, camp store, horse riding, and the camp sites are pretty nice.
All around good place to camp.
GuideLooked forward to camping at Graves Mountain and enjoy the festivities. The campsite is very very small. They say dispersed, but it is a small field as you can not access the others fields. Horse trailers, rvs, tents, and overland trailers all park right next that to each other. We set up away from everyone to properly distance ourselves due to their covid protocols. They told us to move next to others but there was no space. We got our money back and moved to another site. I would avoid this campsite. If you want to visit it for the apple or Fall festival just camp somewhere else and drive to it. No amenities. No cell service.
TravelerBOTTOM LINE: 3.5 Stars. We had a fine time camping here, but probably would not stay again unless some friends were going and wanted to stay. Not bad, but not great and not my personal preference for camping. Any recommendation to stay would be dependent on what you're looking for--it might be for you, but just wasn't for us.
Acknowledging that reviews are totally subjective, here is a brief summary of some of the pros and cons (in our humble opinion):[
PROS/CONS
Pros:
Cons:
Again, we recognize a lot is subjective; but it just wasn't for us. We'd camp here again if others wanted to, but wouldn't choose to come back.
I'm happy to elaborate on any particular bullets.
HELPFUL TIPS:
LegendLovely time in the yurt! Walked around the property and saw the horses and checked out the primitive sites.
ScoutBeautiful sunsets over the stables and horse pastures. We reserved a “pull-through” RV site which ended up being a back-in site that was very uneven and nowhere near level. Also, after staying for two weeks, the bathhouse next to our site was closed because of lack of electricity. Which forced us to drive up to the indoor pool (nice) and use the showers there. Inconvenient, but we made it work.
ScoutWe camped several nights in our 23ft. travel trailer. Our site A85 was just long enough to fit our trailer and truck. We were able to use our generator at this site. The bathroom was just a short walk away. There are no hookups in this campground. We did drive to the shower house and paid a fee to take a shower. They were clean and even though the campground was nearly full we never had to wait in line. We also did our laundry one evening. The machines were all working and it was quite reasonably priced. Big Meadows campground is so conveniently located to the Visitor's center and many local trails. The horse stables were just down the road. The lodge/restaurant was near the campground and we enjoyed a special dinner out one evening on the deck overlooking the beautiful Luray Valley.
RangerWe stayed at a "group" site D167, which allows up to 15 people and 4 cars. While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people. First of all, it's located in the middle of a large patch of grass right next to other family campsites, so no privacy at all. If you travel with friends you might want to stay up a little longer and have a good laugh around the fire, but this site isn't really designed this way. The quiet hours are after 10PM and it's enforced. Second, the space is really limited, especially if your group members have larger tents. Also, there's no overflow parking, except at the entrance to the campground.
The showers are nice and clean, but they are coin operated.
The rangers are very strict. We had some food related items left on the table (salt/pepper shakers) and they were confiscated while we were hiking. I'm not saying it's wrong, but be aware, because these rules are not enforced at the same level in different places. We ended up with a $80 fine.
Also, since this is a national park, you cannot bring the firewood from outside, have to buy it in the park.
Other than that, we enjoyed our stay. The campground location allow an easy access to many trails within Shenandoah National Park, as well as close by, such as our favorite Old Rag Mountain. It's also technically a part of the NP, so keep your entrance receipt to show at the Old Rag's parking lot.
Make sure you taste blackberry ice cream at the general store at the entrance. It's a local specialty and it's delicious!!!
TravelerWe have stayed here several times. Big beautiful paved sites with furniture to boot. Complete with gas grills and outdoor sinks. Plenty to do at the resort..... Kayak, putt putt, tennis, swim in one of the pools, hot tub, work out in the gym, walk on trails, ride horses, take a carriage ride or eat at the "real" restaurant. My favorite campground hands down!
TravelerStayed in July of 2016. Our site had the AT running right behind it. The was plenty of access to trails, and pretty central to the park. The campground is near showers, laundry, campstore, and visitor center. Only down fall is proximity to neighbors.
Equestrian camping near Mcgaheysville, Virginia offers diverse terrain experiences across the Massanutten Mountain range. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-3,000 feet, creating varied climate zones that can be 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Camping facilities in this Shenandoah Valley region range from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds, with most open from April through November.
Mountain hiking options: Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park provides direct access to numerous hiking trails. "With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," notes Rachel M. The campground connects to paths suitable for various skill levels.
Horseback riding experiences: Fort Valley Ranch offers guided horseback trail rides for both experienced and novice riders. "We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading within a 10-minute drive," reports Jason G., highlighting the dual water and trail activities available.
Wildlife observation: The natural habitats support diverse animal sightings. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," writes Rachel M. about Big Meadows. Another camper notes, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory."
Night sky viewing: The higher elevation camping areas provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Big Meadows Campground, campers appreciate "the star watching at night" according to reviews. The limited light pollution and mountain elevation create ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Riverside camping spots: Near Seneca Rocks, Yokums offers waterfront sites. "I had a little trail down to the waters edge and sat on giant boulders to eat my meals," describes Kelly G. These river-adjacent sites provide natural cooling effects during summer months.
Spacious campsite layouts: Campers consistently mention site spacing as a key benefit. "Campground was busy but never felt like we were sharing someone else's tent stakes," notes Jacob S. about his experience at Big Meadows. The well-designed layouts maintain privacy even during peak seasons.
Weather variability: Mountain camping brings significant temperature swings. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," reports Carol B. at Spruce Knob Lake Campground. Pack layers regardless of season.
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cell service. "Download your maps before you come, because there's no cell service and you'll truly get away," advises Jean C. The entire Spruce Knob area offers genuine disconnection from digital distractions.
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water, and a utility sink available," reports Carol B. about Big Meadows, while others like Spruce Knob Lake offer more primitive options with pit toilets and limited water supplies.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Trout Pond Recreation Area offers accessible fishing in crystal-clear waters. "We hiked around Rock Cliff Lake and observed petrified wood. Swimming is excellent with sand beach. Big catfish in clear water," notes Fred F., highlighting the multi-activity potential.
Educational ranger programs: Structured learning activities enhance family camping experiences. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," shares Kim L. about Big Meadows Campground. These sessions typically run 30-45 minutes and cover wildlife, geology, and conservation topics.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's facilities. "There are 3 pools, playground, marina, Minigolf, stables and bike rental," mentions Kathie M. about Shenandoah Crossing, providing rainy day alternatives and energy-burning options for younger campers.
Site leveling considerations: Pay attention to campground topography when booking. At Shenandoah Crossing, "All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed," reports Jason G., while Brenda L. notes, "Our site was not exactly level but I think it was because we were in the first spot on a row and it had a slant."
Mountain road access: The winding roads present challenges for larger rigs. "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us," shares Jason G. about Fort Valley Ranch.
Hookup availability: Research utilities before arrival. "We found that sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU (not sure what amp electric though)," reports Laure D. about Trout Pond Recreation Area, adding "While 3, 5, 7, and 9 are designated Host spots, site 3 had the sign covered and an RV using it."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mcgaheysville, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mcgaheysville, VA is Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 127 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mcgaheysville, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Mcgaheysville, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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