Mount Jackson sits at the center of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, nestled at 994 feet above sea level between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. The surrounding George Washington National Forest offers primitive camping options within a 30-minute drive of Mount Jackson, creating a middle ground between established campgrounds and backcountry experiences. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, with summer averages in the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking to mountain overlooks: Big Meadows Campground sits near several scenic trails with outstanding valley views. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," shares Rachel M.
Cave exploration: A campsite near Mount Jackson, Virginia provides ideal access to underground wonders. Endless Caverns RV Resort combines camping with cavern tours. "The caverns are super awesome as well, especially considering they have not been fully explored. It is not as crowded as some of the other caverns in the area which in my opinion is a plus," notes Roxy V.
Disc golf and recreation: Some campgrounds offer on-site activities beyond hiking. "There are a pool, laundry, pickleball courts, volleyball courts, disk golf, horseshoes, picnic tables and fire rings, a kid's activity area, a rec center that includes an arcade, swings, and tables," reports Sara M. about Endless Caverns.
What campers like
Mountain solitude: Wolf Gap offers primitive camping just 30 minutes from Mount Jackson with free sites. "What makes Wolf Gap so special is the 4 mile hike that leads to a rocky overlook of the valley. Plus if you looking for some peace of mind this campsite is isolated from the outside world," explains Casey C.
Wildlife viewing: Many camping locations near Mount Jackson provide excellent wildlife observation. "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," notes Veronica S. from Big Meadows.
Stream access: Creekside Campground lives up to its name with waterside sites. "We had a large grass space with water and power on the edge of a beautiful creek and enjoyed the sounds of it both nights. There were a variety of birds who frequented the stream and were fun to watch," shares Pete K.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Finding a quiet campsite near Mount Jackson requires research. "Though this campground is HUGE, 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," explains Veronica S. about Big Meadows Campground.
Seasonal availability: Most national park campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "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," reports Carol B.
Off-peak advantages: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park offers year-round camping with distinct seasonal experiences. "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. Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter," John B. confirms.
Tips for camping with families
Consider private campgrounds for amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park focuses on family entertainment. "Beautiful location, nice campground. Not a lot of woods but lots to do including jumping pillows, paddle boats, swimming. The cabins are spacious and nice though you have to bring your own linens," shares Regina C.
Look for campgrounds with river access: Kids enjoy water-based activities at several camping areas. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River... The primitive spots are a short walk from the parking area and the campground provides wagons to transport your stuff. Great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," advises Matt P. about Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park.
Check for ranger programs: Educational activities enhance family camping trips. "Campground is meticulously clean with daily restroom cleaning and trash pick up. Very small campground store on site but a much larger store at visitor center. Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," notes Kim L. from Big Meadows.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some mountaintop campgrounds present leveling difficulties. "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," cautions Matt S. about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views.
Utility placement matters: Check hookup locations before booking. "The sites are large but many are lined up right next to each other. I recommend staying away from A72 to the end of A. They're lined up too closely for my taste, and there isn't much shade," advises Mary S. from Mathews Arm Campground.
Four-season camping options: Not all campgrounds near Mount Jackson operate year-round. "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms," confirms Adam and Suzanne B. about Shenandoah River State Park, which remains open through winter.
