Cabin camping near Orange, Virginia offers diverse lodging options within a 50-mile radius of the town. The area sits at elevations between 500-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between lower valley sites and mountain accommodations. Winter cabin rentals typically require earlier reservations than summer options, with December through February being less crowded but requiring additional heating considerations.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: Christopher Run Campground provides direct access to Lake Anna with swimming and boating options. "This campground has access to lake Anna and is clean... quite times 9 and they have security going around to remind everyone," notes Chris B.
Mountain hiking: Lewis Mountain Campground offers immediate trail access from camp. "Lewis mountain has all the amenities of home within walking distance if you just can't live without them," writes Lexa L., mentioning its proximity to the Appalachian Trail where "we came across numerous friendly backpackers!"
Wildlife observation: Big Meadows Campground provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. "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.
Local vineyard tours: Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages (formerly Shenandoah Hills) serves as a convenient base for visiting area wineries. "Several wineries near by," mentions Kathie M. about the nearby Shenandoah Crossing resort area.
What campers like
Private tent camping areas: Loft Mountain Campground offers secluded sites with good spacing. "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!" notes Annie B.
Comprehensive facilities: Small Country Campground maintains numerous recreational options. One camper described it as "underrated" and adds, "Don't let the name fool you, this place is the largest camp resort in the area. It has everything even a small grocery store."
Year-round cabin availability: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers cabin accommodations throughout all seasons. "Great access, 30, 50, primitive, pull in, back in, cabin, pretty much full gamut. Quickly becoming a favorite," shares Robert H.
Unique lodging options: Yurt accommodations provide alternative camping experiences. At Shenandoah Crossing, these accommodations offer substantial amenities. "We stayed in a yurt, and I'm gonna let the photos do most of the talking... Such a sweet little spot tucked outside of the Blue Ridge Mountains," writes RL.
What you should know
Off-season considerations: Winter cabin rentals may have limited amenities. At Loft Mountain, "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters," reports Katrin M.
Reservation timing: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly at peak times. At Shenandoah River State Park, "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."
Pet policies: Restrictions vary significantly between locations. Lewis Mountain specifically does not allow pets in cabins, with one reviewer noting: "Our tent was also nestled up against the AT so we came across numerous friendly backpackers!"
Site leveling: Some cabin and RV sites require adjustment. At Shenandoah Crossing, a camper noted: "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. The others looked pretty level."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Small Country Campground offers numerous family-friendly features. "This place is great for family camping. They have a pond, pool, playgrounds, 'bouncy pillow', mini golf, and lots more," states The Mayor. Another family camper added, "My band had first seesaw ride, swings and had experienced with jump tube."
Amenity comparison: Christopher Run Campground suits different age groups differently. "The campground is pretty big and has a wonderful beach with swim access to the lake... The playground is for kids 5+ and there's not much to do outside of swimming in the lake for 5 and under," observes Brooke V.
Educational opportunities: Big Meadows offers ranger programs for children. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground. Visitor Center, gas station, food walking distance from campground," writes Kim L.
Weather preparedness: Mountain locations experience temperature fluctuations. "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. about Big Meadows during November.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages offers full hookups with some limitations. "Campsites are level gravel (no pads). Located near multiple vineyards. Our only complaint was that the sewage connection was slightly higher than the black tank outlet on our Airstream," reports John H.
Site selection: Elevation differences affect comfort and access. At Misty Mountain, "The lower section near the entrance is very loud (road noise). I'm in the upper section (steep and windy road to get up here) It's better noise wise here," advises Mara S.
Winter accommodations: Cabin rentals provide alternatives during cold weather. At Shenandoah River State Park, "Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter. Bathrooms and showers were nearby and clean," explains John B.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies significantly between locations. "NO INTERNET" appears in multiple reviews for more remote locations, while Shenandoah River State Park offers "No cell service but the Visitor's Center has WiFi available."
