Dog-Friendly Camping near New Market, VA

The Shenandoah Valley region surrounding New Market sits at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet, creating cooler summer camping conditions compared to nearby lowland areas. The valley's limestone geology creates natural springs and clear waterways ideal for dogs to cool off during summer camping trips. Fall temperatures drop to the 40s at night, requiring appropriate gear when camping with pets.

What to do

Hiking with dogs: At Big Meadows Campground, numerous trails welcome leashed pets. "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.

River recreation: The South Fork of Shenandoah River offers dog-friendly paddling opportunities. At Shenandoah River State Park, primitive campsites sit right on the water. Matt P. notes: "The 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."

Cavern tours: While dogs can't enter most caverns, many campgrounds offer pet sitting or kenneling services. Endless Caverns connects directly to their RV resort. "The Endless Caverns actually adjoin the office welcome center and tours are offered multiple times daily. It would be tough for arthritic knees… but we really enjoyed the raw nature of the caverns," explains Sara M.

What campers like

Well-spaced sites: Dog owners appreciate campgrounds with room between sites. At Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA, "Sites are well spaced. Hookups were well positioned. Walking trail starts at the campground," notes Sara R.

Seasonal variety: The region offers year-round pet-friendly camping options. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30) and shared the campground with a mix of tent campers, car/van campers, and a few larger units. The bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water," reports Carol B. about winter camping at Big Meadows.

Wildlife viewing: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near New Market attract wildlife. At Mathews Arm Campground, Stephen K. found that "A lot of hiking and nature everywhere. We even had a doe and fawn right in our campsite! Just be careful of the black bears."

What you should know

Leash requirements: All Shenandoah National Park campgrounds require dogs to be leashed at all times. "Sites in section C usually back up into a wooded or naturally landscaped area that allow a nice sense of woodsy privacy," notes Sara M. about Endless Caverns RV Resort.

Bear safety: Proper food storage is critical when camping with dogs. At Mathews Arm, "Sites come with picnic tables and fire grates. There are no bear boxes at this campground, but there are indeed bears, so keep all food in your car," advises Eric K.

Water access: Many dogs enjoy cooling off in the river during summer months. "We really enjoyed our stay. The RV sites at this campground are very spaced out, you have a lot of room to each side of your RV. They have a playground for the kids, fishing ponds, cabins, pet friendly with a dog park and they are located right along the Shenandoah river," says Joe about Luray RV Resort.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly amenities: Dog friendly campgrounds near New Market often offer family activities too. "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," says Anne K. about Jellystone Park Luray.

Educational programs: Many campgrounds offer ranger-led activities for children. "The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too. Wild life is visible everywhere you go," notes Melissa T. about Shenandoah River State Park.

Seasonal considerations: Fall brings comfortable temperatures and fewer bugs. At Loft Mountain, Annie B. shares: "Stayed here for the first time this weekend at F-173. The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. You could hear people on the other side of the trees, but no one was loud and it was very quiet and peaceful at night!"

Tips from RVers

Site selection: For RV camping with dogs, look for level sites with adequate space. Clark P. notes about Endless Caverns: "They cater nicely to big rigs, offering numerous pull-through sites as well as back-in sites, as your need exists. Small rigs down to tent trailers camp here as well."

Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can bring unexpected weather. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," shares Carol B. about winter camping at Big Meadows.

Local resources: The town of New Market offers pet supplies and veterinary services. "The office offers ice, firewood, and a gift store with a few RV components. In addition to RV sites they have added a nice set of cabins," says Sara M. about Endless Caverns' amenities.