Cabin accommodations in the Shenandoah Valley region range from rustic to modern with varying amenities. Sites near Mount Jackson sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet with the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains reaching over 3,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, while summer nights typically cool to the 60s even after 90-degree days.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access numerous trails directly from Lewis Mountain Campground with the Appalachian Trail nearby. "Lewis Mountain is right next to the AT and convenient to closer hikes like Bearfence Mountain (probably my favorite hike in the park - beautiful 360 degree views from the rocky summit) and the short trail up to Lewis Mountain itself," notes one camper.
River activities: The Shenandoah River offers tubing, kayaking and swimming at Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback. "The campground is a short walk through the woods to the river if the need to cool off in the hot summer months arises," reports a visitor. "This place is great because they have a bus to bring you back up river after a day of kayaking."
Wildlife viewing: Cabin areas provide opportunities to see native species in natural habitats. "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," writes one visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite being a developed campground, Big Meadows Campground offers good separation between camping areas. "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," mentions a camper.
Clean facilities: Cabins and campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards throughout the region. "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 a visitor at Big Meadows.
Evening atmosphere: The mountain setting creates memorable nighttime 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 visitor about their summer experience.
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 a camper about Lewis Mountain.
Bear safety: Food storage regulations exist to protect both wildlife and visitors. "Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife," notes one visitor. Another adds, "There were lots of sightings and they take food clean up seriously. You can be fined for leaving food out."
Seasonal considerations: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground operates year-round but with varying conditions. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray offers extensive recreation options. "The kids loved running off in the open field and playing on the zip line. We loved that we could see them from our site. The birthday boy also loved the outdoor laser tag!"
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground," shares a visitor about the regular nature programs.
Swimming options: Many cabin locations include water access. "Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners. Campground access to the Shenandoah River," notes a visitor about Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, which makes water activities accessible for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA, specific sites offer advantages. "Site 71 best for privacy. Pool, playground, frisbee golf & pizza delivered to your site!" shares one RVer about this cabin and RV-friendly location.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "Cell signal and camp wifi are bad. I was just able to get a decent signal with Starlink by carefully pointing at a small gap between trees," reports a recent visitor at KOA Luray RV Resort.
Leveling considerations: Some cabin and RV sites require additional preparation. "Our only real drawback was our site was not even close to level. It probably shouldn't have been available for a 40'+ RV. Still, we would go back...just to a different site location."
