Campgrounds surrounding Lyndhurst, Virginia are situated within the scenic Shenandoah Valley region, offering a mix of established facilities and natural settings. Sherando Lake Campground in George Washington National Forest provides tent and RV camping with both electric and non-electric sites, while Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley (formerly Shenandoah Acres) offers family-oriented camping with cabin options. Additional developed campgrounds include Devils Backbone Camp, Walnut Hills Campground, and several other recreation areas within 30 minutes of Lyndhurst. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several facilities also featuring cabin rentals for those seeking more amenities.
The camping season in the Lyndhurst area typically runs from April through October, with some campgrounds remaining open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when facilities reach capacity quickly. As one camper noted, "The window opens six months out and are usually booked for the high season summer months." Sherando Lake and other nearby camping areas feature well-maintained facilities with showers, flush toilets, and designated tent pads. Elevation variations throughout the region affect temperatures, with cooler conditions in higher areas even during summer months. Many campgrounds provide bear-resistant food storage, which proves necessary as wildlife encounters are common in the area.
National Forest campgrounds near Lyndhurst receive consistently positive reviews for their natural settings and recreation opportunities. Swimming and fishing access rank high among visitor priorities, with Sherando Lake campground offering both activities. "The lake is beautiful! It's a decent walk from the campground but we usually walk down in the morning and spend all day there. There is great hiking! Beautiful views everywhere," reports one regular visitor. Hiking trails connect many camping areas to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail. Family-friendly amenities are abundant at several campgrounds, though some visitors note that more commercial facilities like Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley can become quite busy during peak periods with frequent golf cart traffic and planned activities that continue until quiet hours begin.
$25 - $47 / night
"Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."
"The lakeside is wonderful for sitting, reading and swimming. The "upper lake" is great for fishing. "
$25 - $140 / night
"First time camping in any part of Virginia, very nice and clean campground, not too much outside noise besides the random car driving on the one road near by."
"We set up camp then walked over to the brewery/ restaurant for some flights and dinner. I recommend grabbing some growlers to go. Showers and restrooms were clean."
$35 - $75 / night
"Back in sites for smaller trailers such as our teardrop were plenty big enough but still on the outskirts of the field. Bath house was very clean and very well thought out."
"The winding layout allowed for more distance between other sites. The woods were beautiful with easy walking trails right from the site."
$45 - $99 / night
"You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything. Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure. Trash picked up each day."
"Good location close to I81 but little road noise. I did hear a train."
$30 - $75 / night
"This campground is perfect for those looking to just get away from things for a couple of days."
"We got a walk in site, so our tent was way far away from cars and other people. The site included a fire pit w/grill grate, picnic table, and metal bear box."
$29 - $45 / night
"And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar , restaurant and off to the side a little store for floats with putt putt golf and Jenna,etc."
"Lots for them to do, great swimming lake, employees were a pleasure. Trash pick-up was awesome !! Our site was gorgeous. Not a full hook up(more on that later), but absolutely perfect."
$36 - $132 / night
"We spent 2 weeks at SVC while our trunk was in the shop(our travel trailer got towed there- highly recommend Good Sam Roadside policy). Everyone on staff was accomodating, helpful and friendly."
"It was clean, but had a trail of ants get into my belongings. Sites are close to one another and the cabins are not near the water. They are near the bath house though."
$28 - $55 / night
"The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."
"I’ve camped at a completely different part of this place before which was a site without access to bathrooms and showers."
"Beautiful surroundings. No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!"
"Ate at their on-site restaurant while a local band played outside. Mostly used by local folks as a seasonal CG. Lots of semi-permanent fixtures attached to rigs. Did get a PassPort America discount."
"Good area close to hiking trails and historical sites. Dog friendly. Only negative was the closeness of the sites."
GuideThis is an awesome campground that is definitely worth the cost. The sites are really nice, there’s a decent bathhouse and you can walk to the brewery for beers and food. Plus the area is beautiful!
ScoutThis KOA was quiet and perfect for a short stay. We enjoyed our time here. The staff was friendly.
GuideI chose Big Meadows to stay at because my traveling companion is definitely a bit bougie and was anxious about camping in the mountains of a NP. Due to this site having showers, toilets, a laundromat, camp store(s) and even a lodge/taproom, they felt more comfortable. We stayed at site D142, right near the entrance by the registration office and showers. I didn’t expect the site to be so nice and quiet and still feel quite private despite the location! We checked out the loops and besides the tent sites, I actually preferred our site. We stayed the week before Memorial Day weekend and I was pleased with how quiet it was. Quiet hours were strictly adhered without rangers having to ask, other campers were respectful toward each other and we had no issues. The NP staff were awesome and the concession employees for the showers, camp store, and the Wayside grill were genuinely friendly and obviously cared about their jobs, which I sincerely appreciate. Wayside grill with attached camp store was fun and had some great gift items as well as some pretty solid quality hiking and camping items. The grill even had a beyond burger which I greatly appreciated! The lodge was funky but not my cup of tea, the taproom was ok, although the employees were really nice.
It did rain half the time we were there with extremely heavy fog so we only did a few hikes but they were still a lot of fun. We didn’t see any bear either! The number one animal we had invade our campsite on the regular were birds. Two catbirds regularly tried to involve themselves in everything, including landing on a pot of oatmeal I was actively cooking and standing next to! We followed leave no trace of course but any chance the birds got, from catbirds, robins, brown thrashers, towhee, and even a redstart, they would try to investigate.
There is clean drinking water listed on the campsite maps, there are utility sinks for grey water (don’t use the bathroom sink!), bathrooms were always clean and bathrooms and showers are open 24/7 and are well lit. I didn’t buy the firewood so I’m unsure how much it is but the little camp store was open from 9-6 (right by the bathroom) for firewood, ice, and other various supplies.
Only downsides to the site are 1) showers are not cheap ($5 for 10 mins) and don’t stay warm for long so you’re showering in chilly water. Some stalls last a bit longer than others. 2) The biggest issue though was surprisingly the bear boxes. They are quite large and fit a lot of stuff which is great. However, you are expected to keep your cooler in them. I have a bear proof cooler (IGBC) so I’ve never had to experience this situation before. The bear box being made of metal, heated everything up in it which caused rapid melting of ice. Despite pre-chilling it and my ice usually lasting for days and days, we had to refill it daily. The camp store thankfully sold ice (10 lb bags for $5) but it was frustrating that there was no other option for bear proof items. I didn’t fight the rangers regarding it because it’s their rules, it’s for the safety of the bears and people, and the rangers and park staff have enough stuff to deal with.
All in all, I’ve never really glamped before so it was quite a luxurious trip even with the rain and fog for half the trip. I’ll most definitely be back and would even stay at the same site or a tent only site with no driveway.
ScoutBeautiful and secluded. Primitive camping area for boondocking or tent camping. Large enough to set up several electric pens for horses.
TravelerI can’t believe no one has rated this beautiful place. The sites are level, gravel, well spaced out and surrounded by trees. We stayed at White Pines Campground and there was a network of trails you can access a short walk away. The trails had views, lake, waterfall, and beautiful mountain laurel in bloom. These trails looked great for mountain biking too. The showers were nicely laid out, clean and had great pressure and there were plenty of them. The huge bonus was the dishwashing station with hot water. I can’t wait to come back and explore this beautiful area more!
GuideMy wife and I stayed here one night, while driving south to north, Skyline Dr. the drive has been awesome and this campground is the perfect resting spot for us, for the night. Had a couple drinks at the lodge while watching a spectacular sunset. I’d definitely come back.
GuideIt’s very green and scenic
ScoutI will start with the negatives. They do not enforce quiet hours. At all. We had multiple nights with a large group neighboring campers partying well past midnight. Yelling, slamming car doors, absolutely no regard for fellow campers. I would not recommend staying along the road sites unless you are equipped to deal with noisy neighbors in close proximity.
And the good... The sites in the more wooded areas on the edge of the campground are beautiful. You are less likely to deal with groups of campers there to party. Bathrooms were clean and well maintained, with pay showers available. Firewood, though expensive, was plentiful. Being close to hiking, the lodge, camp store, and visitor center are excellent perks for the price of each site.
I really wish the staff was there to better enforce the quiet hours, as there were multiple campers that struggled to sleep/relax with the raucous crowd so close.
GuideThis is the city park with the campground and an old estate. They don’t accept reservations. We arrived at 5pm on Friday. Went to the office to check in,found that they closed at 4:30. There was a note on the door that said to leave money in an envelope and put it through the slot in the door, no further information. Wrote our name and a description of the vehicles and put $110.30 in cash for 2 nights in the door slot, and went to find camping. There are no picnic tables or fire rings, in the large lower section of the campground there is just water and electric, no sewer connection. We chose a site near the river and set up camp. Then found the power isn’t working. First thing the next morning I went to the office to ask about refunding the difference for the full hook up to dry camping spot. The woman was not helpful at all, and insisted that she doesn’t do refunds, even though I explained that I had left cash. She said no one was supposed to be camping on the riverside, and that they don’t turn the power on down there. I said without a note on the door to explain that or a sign near the path, there’d be no way to know that. Beware, when you pay, make sure you know what site you’re in and what services you’re getting, then go and pay for it. She was most unpleasant, and unhelpful. On the plus side, the river is pretty, there’s an ice cream stand, and there’s nice hiking trails.
Camping spots near Lyndhurst, Virginia offer varied terrain options across elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 feet in the Shenandoah Valley region. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly between higher and lower elevation campgrounds, with differences of 10-15 degrees even during summer months. Campgrounds in this area typically require early reservations for peak season weekends, particularly from May through September.
Hiking to unique viewpoints: Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park connects directly to multiple trail systems. "There are three camping loops here... All tent sites have fire rings, utility poles, and large picnic tables, and tent pads that are raked clear by campground hosts between guests," notes Stephanie J. Trails range from easy lakeside paths to connections with the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail.
Local brewery visits: The camping area around Devils Backbone Camp offers convenient access to multiple craft beverage producers. "Close to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries. I highly recommend visiting Blue Mountain Brewery and Bold Rock cidery during tour stay for some great food and beverage," advises Erika S. Many campers appreciate the ability to walk to beverage destinations without driving.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature swimming and fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "Coming in the middle of the week is the best time if you like to have peace and quiet and the place all to yourself," explains Katie M. about lake access timing. Some lakes have designated swimming areas with roped-off sections, while others are primarily for fishing only.
Convenient bathroom facilities: Walnut Hills Campground maintains well-kept facilities. "The bathhouse is nice as is the pool. The store was sparse but adequate. The lawns were kept up and looking good. There is a very nice playground and a pet exercise area," shares Laure D. Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds, with many campers specifically mentioning cleanliness as a priority.
Creek-side camping spots: Crabtree Falls Campground offers sites directly adjacent to moving water. "The site backed up to a creek that created natural flowing water that we enjoyed wading through. The bath house was well maintained and super clean," explains Emily R. Many campers mention the calming effect of falling asleep to the sound of flowing water at these sites.
Level, well-maintained sites: Attention to site preparation makes a difference for tent campers. "Clean campground with plenty of room. The bathhouse is top notch! Squeaky clean with lots of space," notes Jennifer E. Most campgrounds in the area rake tent pads between visitors and maintain fire rings for safety and usability.
Bear activity is common: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions in this region. "A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!" reports Lisa M. Many campgrounds provide bear-resistant food storage containers at each site, and campers should never leave food unattended.
Weather changes quickly: The mountain elevation affects camping conditions throughout the year. "It was a bit of a walk through lush greenery from the car to the tent site, but once there, you really feel like you are the only humans on the mountain. Our site was flat and spacious with a sturdy picnic table and large fire ring with adjustable height grill," describes Cindy M. about her experience at Loft Mountain when it remained fogged in.
Reservation windows: Most campgrounds in the area open reservations six months in advance for the high season. "The sites were level and everything looked recently upgraded. We didn't get in the water, but we saw the beach and it looked perfect for kids," shares Mike G. about Sherando Lake, which typically books completely for summer weekends.
Look for dedicated kids' activities: Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley specializes in family-oriented camping. "This campground was clean and easy to access just off of the BRP. The sites were level and everything looked recently upgraded," notes Mike G. The campground offers a beach area, recreational activities, and rental options suitable for families with children.
Choose sites with easy water access: Families often prefer campgrounds with convenient swimming options. "They have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields. You can even have a tent right on the river. Across from a beautiful waterfall," describes Joy A. about Shenandoah Valley Campground's family-friendly setup.
Book mid-week when possible: Weekend crowds can change the camping experience significantly. "The window opens six months out and are usually booked for the high season summer months," explains Linda C. Families often find more space, shorter bathroom lines, and quieter conditions during weekday stays, even during summer months.
Hookup placement variations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. "For example, we have a small travel trailer and we needed a 30 foot hose. The sewer connection for the odd number sites is on the opposite side of the RV than the electricity and water," explains Erika S. RVers should check site layouts before arrival and be prepared with extension cords or longer hoses if needed.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain in the Lyndhurst area often means uneven sites. "Nice 4 days on the Middle River. Quiet and relaxing," notes William R. about his experience at Shenandoah Valley Campground. Many RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks as campgrounds in mountainous areas often have slight grades even on designated RV sites.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "You are in the middle of the mountains," reminds Erika S. RVers who need to stay connected should research signal strength at specific campgrounds, as mountain terrain creates significant dead zones throughout the Lyndhurst area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lyndhurst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lyndhurst, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 132 campgrounds and RV parks near Lyndhurst, VA and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Lyndhurst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lyndhurst, VA is Sherando Lake Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 33 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lyndhurst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Lyndhurst, VA.
What parks are near Lyndhurst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Lyndhurst, VA that allow camping, notably George Washington & Jefferson National Forests and Shenandoah National Park.
Keep Exploring
