Cabins near Rixeyville, Virginia offer access to the Shenandoah Valley, which sits between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Alleghenies to the west. Elevations in this region range from 500 to over 3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates and landscapes. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day but can drop to 50-60°F at night, especially at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to mountain viewpoints: Loft Mountain Campground connects directly to the Appalachian Trail, allowing cabin and tent campers easy access to multiple trails. "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!" notes a visitor to Lewis Mountain Campground.
Fishing in the Shenandoah River: Riverside cabins provide direct access for anglers. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins. Park and campgrounds are clean and well maintained. Tons of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park," reports a visitor to Shenandoah River State Park.
Stargazing from cabin porches: Higher elevation sites offer exceptional night sky views. "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. 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."
What campers like
Proximity to Skyline Drive: Many cabins near Rixeyville provide easy access to this scenic mountain route. "This campground 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 a camper at Lewis Mountain Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin locations often facilitate wildlife encounters. "We saw a total of 6 black bears, a barred owl, tons of awesome bugs (moths, beetles, etc), brook trout, a salamander, and some other wildlife. We did approx 7 trails, most of which were appropriate for younger kids (7 & 9), and generally had an amazing weekend."
Private cabin sites: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached (I did not do this, but I watched someone's child do it). And finally, 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."
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Some cabin properties close completely during winter months. "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, and a utility sink available. Our site had some privacy and some extra due to about 50% occupancy. Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground," mentions a visitor to Big Meadows Campground.
Elevation affects temperature: Higher elevation cabins experience significantly colder nights. "Elevation above 3000 feet and plenty of deer! It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water."
Shower facilities vary widely: Some locations have limited or seasonal shower access. "The showers are $5 for 10 minutes. Kind of a steep price. Make sure you test that it works BEFORE you get set up and get naked. My first quarter got jammed and I had to redress and pack up to move to a different one."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for kids: Choose cabin locations with built-in amenities for children. "We stayed here for 3 nights in August. It was perfect for kids! 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! Staff was attentive," shares a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs at many cabin locations provide learning experiences. "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. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground."
River-based fun: Riverside cabins offer safe water activities. "The primitive spots are right next to the river. 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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some locations require additional equipment for proper setup. "Our site was level, at least 28 was. You can't go wrong With the pergola and mountains view. Note that the most pull-thru in the inside of the camp are closers to each other than sites around the camp (the edge of the camp)," advises an RVer at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views.
Seasonal road conditions: Mountain access roads to cabin areas can present challenges. "The drive in requires about 25-miles through the roller coaster of steep grade(7+%) hills. There's no way around that, you're in the mountains. Just be aware and be prepared."
Electrical hookup variations: Cabin areas offer different levels of power. "RV sites are spaced out and have wooden fences on the sides. 30 amp service at the site. You can fill your water tanks as you enter the campground. The camp store seemed basic. Not a lot of supplies if you forget something. Front Royal is 20 minutes away and has several outdoor stores."
