Camping near Free Union, VA

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    Campgrounds near Free Union, VA range from developed RV and cabin sites to primitive tent camping areas within Shenandoah National Park and surrounding regions. Developed campgrounds like Loft Mountain, Big Meadows, and Lewis Mountain offer tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Devils Backbone Camp, located near breweries and cideries, provides full-hookup sites alongside more primitive tent camping areas. Most established campgrounds in the region maintain designated fire rings, picnic tables, and access to toilet facilities, while some also feature shower buildings and camp stores.

    Camping in the Shenandoah region follows seasonal patterns, with most park campgrounds operating from mid-May through October or early November. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and fall foliage season when sites fill quickly. Winter camping options are limited primarily to year-round private campgrounds like Misty Mountain Camp Resort and Shenandoah Valley Campground. Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, with many campgrounds providing bear boxes at sites. According to one visitor at Loft Mountain, "This is bear country and we saw a few bears lolly gagging in the area. They were curious and never posed a danger from what we could sense."

    Campers consistently rate water proximity and mountain views as key highlights of the region. Sites along rivers or with mountain vistas tend to receive the highest ratings, particularly those in Shenandoah National Park. Several campgrounds feature direct access to hiking trails, including segments of the Appalachian Trail. The proximity to breweries and wineries represents another draw for many visitors, with Devils Backbone Camp offering a unique experience where campers can walk to the adjacent brewery. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campgrounds in the area vary significantly in privacy levels, with some sites described as "hedged on all sides with woods, boulders, and bushes" while others are "very flat and open, with little shade or privacy between sites." Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, particularly within Shenandoah National Park boundaries.

    Best Campgrounds near Free Union (132)

      1. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      4.3(68)9mi from Free Union213 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $30 - $75 / night

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      2. Misty Mountain Camp Resort

      4.1(43)13mi from Free UnionRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $35 - $75 / night

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      3. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      4.5(128)27mi from Free Union224 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people."

      "Our site had the AT running right behind it. The was plenty of access to trails, and pretty central to the park. The campground is near showers, laundry, campstore, and visitor center."

      from $30 - $75 / night

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      4. Lewis Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      4.6(32)20mi from Free Union32 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Lewis mountain has all the amenities of home within walking distance if you just can’t live without them; bathrooms,showers, kitchen sink, fire pit, small store and 2 personal vehicle parking spots steps"

      "Arrived before the weekend, around late morning. Greeted by the park ranger, they gave the basic information for these sites. Limited spots here. You’re pretty close to your neighbor."

      from $30 / night

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      5. Charlottesville KOA

      3.8(9)15mi from Free Union3 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "For the past four or five years I have come to this campground each year in the offseason, April or October, to visit while the temps in Virginia are cooler and less humid."

      "It’s small, but we did not feel cramped or too close to others. The hooks were the closest we have ever had - which is very nice!"

      from $45 - $80 / night

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      6. Devils Backbone Camp

      4.3(42)28mi from Free UnionRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $25 - $140 / night

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      7. Waynesboro North 340 Campground

      4.1(7)16mi from Free UnionRVs, Tents

      "Good area close to hiking trails and historical sites. Dog friendly. Only negative was the closeness of the sites."

      "It was easy to get into Shenandoah National Park via Skyline Drive, which we also enjoyed. It is not too far from Polyface Farms (a conference there was the purpose of our visit)."

      8. Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

      4.4(34)28mi from Free UnionRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Convenient to the highway and easy to get to. Sites are well spaced. Hookups were well positioned. Walking trail starts at the campground. WiFi worked pretty well. Overall a great KOA."

      "Positive: Friendly staff, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit. Negative: Pricing rather high"

      9. Shenandoah Valley Campground

      3.7(27)25mi from Free UnionRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $36 - $132 / night

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      10. Sherando Lake Campground

      4.6(34)29mi from Free Union65 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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. "

      from $25 - $47 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Free Union, VA

    1067 Reviews of 132 Free Union Campgrounds

    • rThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 12, 2026

      Misty Mountain Camp Resort

      Where do i even start

      The wifi test was done with my starlink not the campground wifi bc it doesn't exist.

      To begin with I came physically up here from SC to check availability for long term stay. I was told there was a list and I would be put on that list and if a spot became available I would be notified (8-3-26). I was called (8-23-26) with availability and request for payment I paid then on the phone. My card the next following 3 days was ran for an additional total of 2400.00 every single morning an 800.00 charge I luckily had my card locked bc if not I would have been screwed. I was not given a reason why my card was ran so many times and not even an apology. I checked in on September 1st and was put in a site completely covered with tree limbs which is a problem as the only requirement I had was a clear view of the sky for my starlink to work for my remote work. For 2 whole weeks I went back and forth with the new GM Peggy. For 2 whole weeks I could NOT work the campground wifi is non existent. I was given the run around and a disrespectful attitude saying it wasnt there fault when it was known to begin with this was an absolute NEED not a want. Fast forward to today (9-12-26) I had issues with my power pole showing a short to ground and I was told its bc the poles are grounded to themselves but finally moved. The only catch was if I was to move I HAD TO LEAVE on october 1st per PEGGY the nee GM. So because of a miscommunication between staff of mine and my families needs bc my kids homeschooling I am forced to scramble to find another campground in two weeks when we live in our camper and work OTR. Its been nothing but problems here. The water taps are full of rust the GM judges you based off how you apear and treats you like dirt under the door mat. I was hoping this would be a good fit for me and my family but it has been nothing but the worst camping experience I have had in the past 5 years. The staff themselfs are great they tried to remedy the issue day one but PEGGY wouldnt allow it. I highly recommend going somewhere else and spending your hard earned money bc this place does not respect you as a customer or tenant. I talked with many campers who have been coming here for years since the 90s and they even say and feel the same the campground has declined since a management company purchased it. Also the long term rentals will be al.ost non existent unless you've bene coming here for 4 years or more. Cable is also non existent here. Its been a very VERY bad regretful experience. The lies from management and corporate baseline excuses are disgusting. Will NEVER camp here again. Take this as your honest warning from a normal person and a combat veteran. It dont take much to please me but this place has fell well below the bar. The site is was moved to before I get kicked out because they couldnt properly meet the needs of my stay allowed my starlink to work so I will be able to work 2 weeks before I am essentially nomadic again. If your tent camping bring water boots bc the tent sites seem to hold water. ALSO DONT LEAVE HONEST REVIEWS THAT SHED LIGHT ON THE NEGATIVES AND DOWNFALLS OF THIS PLACE OR THEY WILL TELL YOU YOU HAVE TO LEAVE.

    • Hannah S.
      Sep. 11, 2026

      Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

      Cozy and in the woods

      This KOA has cozy spots among the trees and off any major road. Shower houses are squeaky clean and spots are spaced out just right! Some extra amenities: playground, camper core signage, and many other things!

    • Marie H.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 5, 2026

      Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River

      Difficult river access for seniors

      Nice, clean, parking lot type campground. Great pool with lots of built in splash features for kids and a big slide. No real view from site 665 ~ just the top of some mountains. No river view at all. There is a golf cart trail to the river access with parking, but then there are big steps with no hand rail. Lucky a nice man let me hold onto him walking back up. My husband was carrying the gear and couldn’t help me. It seems everyone brought a golf cart. They had rentals, but too expensive. Again ~ great for young families.

    • N
      Sep. 2, 2026

      South Fork Shenandoah River

      Camping Next to shanandoa River

      It was a great spot for a little fire and outdoors camping. No permit needed and there are some places around where u can easily rent a kayak to go on the river. You can also park your car easily at this spot.

    • dThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 26, 2026

      Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages

      Great RV park/ resort

      The RV park is on a mountain side. Roads are fairly steep. Most sites are level, ours was a bit sloped but were able to level our trailer. Plenty to do here. Endless Caverns site is quite large. Huge rec room with large projection TV. Game room, large deck with public bbq equipment. Great pool. A catch n release fishing pond, pickle ball & volleyball courts and a great playground for the younger set sporting a large air filled bouncing pad. Kids in the camp loved it. The cavern tour is worth it once. Tour guides are young so not much geological knowledge. The New Market Civil War Battlefield is about 3 miles away, it and it's museum are well worth it. The Endless Caverns staff is super. Prices reasonable. A great find. I will stay again.

    • sThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 12, 2026

      Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley

      A bit too expensive

      Beautiful area and lots of amenities but $95 a night for RV camper even if you’re in a van. The tent spots fill up fast if there are any

    • Adeline M.
      Aug. 10, 2026

      Devils Backbone Camp

      August camping

      Not far from the National park, we went the weekend before school started for the little ones so not as many campers as we have seen in the past. The brew pub is within walking distance. Great for family camping.

    • B
      Aug. 9, 2026

      Braley Pond dispersed camping area

      Nice dispersed camping sites.

      We really enjoyed our one night visit there. It has a nice pond with a few hiking trails. The dispersed camping sites are fairly private. Each has a nice gathered rock fire ring. The pit toilets in the day area not at all clean. Trash cans were overflown, but we did arrive on a Sunday night so maybe it was a busy weekend? I think we would go back, love that area.

    Guide to Free Union

    Camping areas near Free Union, Virginia sit at elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet above sea level, creating diverse microclimates across the region. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations, with summer highs typically reaching 80-85°F. Several primitive camping areas feature tent platforms to minimize impact on the forest floor and provide more level sleeping surfaces during periods of heavy rainfall.

    What to do

    Brewery hopping from camp: 5-minute walk to Devils Backbone Camp offers a unique opportunity. "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries," notes Chyna K. The brewery complex includes two hiking trails (3km and 5km) on the property for short nature walks.

    Rock scrambling and peak hiking: 30-minute drive from Lewis Mountain Campground leads to challenging terrain. "Bearfence is just down the trail, you can walk out of camp and start hiking. Originally was opened in 1939 as 'Lewis Mountain Negro Area', not having all the amenities that whites only campgrounds had, I find it interesting that this is now the best spot in town!" shares Max O. Many trails feature rock scrambles requiring use of hands.

    Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities. "The family just returned from 3 days hidden away at Loft Mountain. Our site was flat and spacious with a sturdy picnic table and large fire ring with adjustable height grill. We were certainly surprised to have a deer family join us during dinner," reports Cindy M. Eastern gray squirrels, chipmunks, and over 190 bird species inhabit the area.

    What campers like

    Private wooded sites: At Big Meadows Campground, sites feature natural barriers. "Big Meadows Campground was wonderful. Facilities were clean and well maintained. Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Fire ring with grate was available. Large site size," explains Terri S. Sites along the campground perimeter typically offer more seclusion.

    Clean bathroom facilities: Many campers note the quality of amenities. "The bathhouse was a nice short walk away... Beautiful! At dusk, the ground shimmers, and then after they disperse, you will still see them flit by the tent throughout the night," writes Veronica S. about Big Meadows. Bathroom facilities generally include flush toilets and running water, though not all campgrounds offer showers.

    Proximity to hiking trails: Direct access to hiking paths ranks highly among visitors. "We had a great time staying here, the site we were at was pretty private behind our camper. Bushes and trees on all sides of our fire ring and picnic table," notes Shane T. Most campgrounds connect to at least one trail system, allowing for morning hikes directly from camp without driving.

    What you should know

    Weather variation: Temperatures change significantly with elevation. At Loft Mountain Campground, "The mountain remained fogged in for most of our stay, but hikes on the AT and Doyles Falls were stunning," mentions Cindy M. Temperatures at higher elevations can be 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys.

    Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. "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. No cell service. We went to the visitor center and connected to the WiFi if we needed to do something online," explains Veronica S. Verizon typically provides the best coverage.

    Shower availability: Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities. "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters," reports Katrin M. about Loft Mountain. Prepare with quarters if planning to use pay showers, as change machines aren't always available.

    Tips for camping with families

    Campground activities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort provides numerous structured options. "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground," shares Christopher T. The resort includes a jumping pad, pool tables, and organized evening activities.

    Wildlife education opportunities: Ranger programs provide learning experiences. "Big Meadow has many amenities which make it popular and oftentimes crowded during weekends and holiday's. But, many of these amenities make camping with families a convenience. We saw many deer and bear while camping," explains Rachel M. Programs often focus on bear safety, local ecology, and night sky viewing.

    Consider tent platforms: Platform sites keep sleeping areas drier. "My daughter picked site A33g since it was secluded and we were unlikely to have neighbors during our midweek visit. 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," notes Cindy M. about Loft Mountain. Platform sites typically include corner posts for attaching tarps.

    Tips from RVers

    Hookup locations and lengths: At Shenandoah Valley Campground, be prepared for site variations. "We spent 2 weeks at SVC while our trunk was in the shop. Everyone on staff was accommodating, helpful and friendly. Very nice campground amenities- stocked fishing pond, big swimming pool, and really nice creek for tubing with waterfall," mentions Gabe. Some sites require longer-than-standard power cords and water hoses.

    RV site positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when reserving. "Some sites have a septic cap that was too high. We didn't have those things to raise the hose up, so I had to manually lift and empty the hose for the duration of our emptying. Also, the power station was on the opposite side of the septic, so make sure you have a 30ft power cord at least!" advises Robert M. about Devils Backbone Camp.

    Winter camping limitations: Year-round options exist but with restrictions. "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. Showers and laundry were closed for the season," notes Carol B. about Big Meadows. Winterization affects water availability at some sites.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What camping is available near Free Union, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Free Union, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 132 campgrounds and RV parks near Free Union, VA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

    Which is the most popular campground near Free Union, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Free Union, VA is Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 68 reviews.

    Where can I find free dispersed camping near Free Union, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Free Union, VA.

    What parks are near Free Union, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Free Union, VA that allow camping, notably Shenandoah National Park and George Washington & Jefferson National Forests.