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Equestrian Camping near Shenandoah, VA

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    Fort Valley Ranch represents the primary equestrian campground option near Shenandoah, Virginia, with 45 campsites that accommodate tent camping, RVs, and cabin stays. While the campground data doesn't specify dedicated horse corrals, the ranch setting suggests horse-friendly facilities. The campground provides drinking water, electric hookups with both 30-amp and 50-amp options, sewer hookups, and water hookups for RVs. Fort Valley Ranch maintains picnic tables at each site, allows fires, provides firewood, and features shower facilities and flush toilets. The campground prohibits alcohol consumption but welcomes pets, making it suitable for travelers with both horses and dogs. The campground's perfect 5-star rating indicates exceptional experiences among equestrian campers.

    Trail access represents a key consideration for horse enthusiasts camping in the Shenandoah region. Fort Valley Ranch's location provides strategic positioning for riders looking to explore the surrounding terrain. While specific bridle trails aren't detailed in the provided data, the ranch's name and perfect rating suggest quality riding opportunities. The campground's reservation system allows horse owners to secure spots in advance, an important consideration during peak riding seasons. Trailer parking appears available given the campground's big-rig friendly designation. Riders should note that generators are not permitted at this campground, requiring alternative power solutions for extended stays. The campground remains centrally positioned for access to both Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest riding areas.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Shenandoah (8)

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      1. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      4.5(125)10mi from Shenandoah224 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This campground is located in the Shenandoah National Park in Stanley , Va on Skyline drive and offers some amazing views!"

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

      from $30 - $75 / night

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      2. Graves Mountain Farm Campground

      3.0(6)16mi from Shenandoah50 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Lots of people on horses running around which we loved, and good live music after dinner. Could get muddy if you're there after rain"

      "Lodge close by if food, warmth, or better restroom desired."

      from $12 / night

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      3. Fort Valley Ranch

      5.0(1)27mi from ShenandoahRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We recently stayed at Fort Valley Ranch Campground, near Luray, VA and I can only say good things about our experience and the FVR's management."

      from $30 - $45 / night

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      4. Shenandoah Crossing, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

      4.3(12)38mi from Shenandoah1 siteRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "It's located in Gordonsville, Virginia. There's not much to do in the area, but the campground itself is nice."

      "It’s relatively close to the Shenandoah NP. Would recommend this place. Definitely returning."

      from $50 / night

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      5. Trout Pond Recreation Area

      4.5(6)33mi from Shenandoah50 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "There is Rockcliff lake and small beach area, an overlook (Lina Constable Overlook) to hike to right off the camp loop but it’s 1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step. Gorgeous!"

      "The area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1. The site was super clean and well maintained. Lots of hiking trails and a very easy one that loops around the Rockcliff Lake."

      from $25 - $105 / night

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      6. Yokums Vacationland and Princess Snowbirds Indian Village

      3.5(2)48mi from ShenandoahRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I go there to climb and both sites are close to the rocks. I have camped there just about every month of the year. Be forwarded this entire area has no cell service due to the Green radio telescopes."

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      7. Benson's Run

      4.0(1)46mi from ShenandoahTents

      "Large enough to set up several electric pens for horses."

      8. Lost River State Park Campground

      Be the first to review33mi from ShenandoahTents, Cabins
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    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Shenandoah, VA

    35 Photos of 8 Shenandoah Campgrounds

    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Shenandoah, VA

    153 Reviews of 8 Shenandoah Campgrounds

    • M
      Oct. 1, 2021

      Graves Mountain Farm Campground

      Fine place, but not really primitive and some major drawbacks

      BOTTOM LINE: 3.5 Stars. We had a fine time camping here, but probably would not stay again unless some friends were going and wanted to stay. Not bad, but not great and not my personal preference for camping. Any recommendation to stay would be dependent on what you're looking for--it might be for you, but just wasn't for us. 

      Acknowledging that reviews are totally subjective, here is a brief summary of some of the pros and cons (in our humble opinion):[

      PROS/CONS

      Pros:

      • Beautiful mountain views
      • charming brook and farm (i.e. things to do for young kids), and okay hiking trails
      • friendly campers and staff
      • ease of check-in process
      • low cost
      • Can (technically) hike intro Shenandoah National Park

      Cons:

      • campground bathrooms and port-a-jons in poor condition
      • street lights in primitive camping area
      • yellow jacket nests in primitive camping area (with no warning signs)
      • the gnats and flies were bad (way worse than I've ever experienced; probably due to the horse and cow poop)
      • decent amount of horse/cow manure in the primitive camping area
      • camping area is mixed with RVs, equestrian trailers, & tent campers
      • camping area was restricted to a smaller area, forcing camps a little too close together (so much room that wasn't allowed for pitching camp and spreading out)
      • few trees in camping area (more of an open field)
      • 35-40 min drive to either entrance of Shenandoah National Park (then you still have to drive to the trail you want to hike)

      Again, we recognize a lot is subjective; but it just wasn't for us. We'd camp here again if others wanted to, but wouldn't choose to come back.

      I'm happy to elaborate on any particular bullets.

      HELPFUL TIPS:

      • Sites are first come, first served -- there are a few "primo" spots, but get there before noon to nab them
      • There is local firewood available at the General Store/Post Office in Syria, VA (~0.2 mi from campground); about $7/bundle (you'll probably need 3-4 bundles for a night)
      • Use trees to block out some of the light from street lights (only a handful of spots can do this bc few trees); or try to get a spot as far away as you can get
      • For kids, there is a duck pond, chicken coop, shallow brook, disable farm tractor, and some other stuff to play with/on/in across the street near the lodge.
      • Free range horses (they're penned-in) come back at dusk and head out at dawn -- fun to watch from the campground, especially for kiddos
      • Bring your own water, if possible
    • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 17, 2018

      Shenandoah Crossing, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

      Nice place with lots to do

      I grew up going to this campground. It's located in Gordonsville, Virginia. There's not much to do in the area, but the campground itself is nice.

      There is a nice pool, arcade, camp store, horse riding, and the camp sites are pretty nice.

      All around good place to camp.

    • C
      Aug. 29, 2018

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      Lots of wildlife

      This campground is located in the Shenandoah National Park in Stanley , Va on Skyline drive and offers some amazing views! There are several hikes in close proximity to the campground and the Appalachian Trail goes through this part of the park as well! The staff are very friendly , the park is clean and there is wildlife everywhere. Loved hearing the owl at night! If you don't feel like cooking , the lodge is very close by with delicious food , a warm fireplace , local musicians, games and lodging for those who don't choose to camp. The Big Meadows Lodge is not open all year , so check the schedule if this is a must do !

    • Katy S.
      Jul. 6, 2020

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      Huge campground, great trails

      We stayed at a "group" site D167, which allows up to 15 people and 4 cars. While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people. First of all, it's located in the middle of a large patch of grass right next to other family campsites, so no privacy at all. If you travel with friends you might want to stay up a little longer and have a good laugh around the fire, but this site isn't really designed this way. The quiet hours are after 10PM and it's enforced. Second, the space is really limited, especially if your group members have larger tents. Also, there's no overflow parking, except at the entrance to the campground.

      The showers are nice and clean, but they are coin operated.

      The rangers are very strict. We had some food related items left on the table (salt/pepper shakers) and they were confiscated while we were hiking. I'm not saying it's wrong, but be aware, because these rules are not enforced at the same level in different places. We ended up with a $80 fine.

      Also, since this is a national park, you cannot bring the firewood from outside, have to buy it in the park.

      Other than that, we enjoyed our stay. The campground location allow an easy access to many trails within Shenandoah National Park, as well as close by, such as our favorite Old Rag Mountain. It's also technically a part of the NP, so keep your entrance receipt to show at the Old Rag's parking lot.

      Make sure you taste blackberry ice cream at the general store at the entrance. It's a local specialty and it's delicious!!!

    • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 17, 2018

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      AMAZING

      Maybe I just have some great childhood memories associated with this place, but I love Big Meadows. This campground is located in Shenandoah National Park and is a great place to get out into nature and away from everything.

      The campsites are mainly tent sites, but I believe they also have cabins to rent. I think the best part about this campground is that it feels more like you're camping in the woods rather than a campground. There is a bunch of wildlife all around the campground, which is nice to see. Also, this place is great for families, because there are plenty of activities for kids to do. Rangers of the park give talks, and there are scavenger hunts that the kids can participate in.

      I love camping in Shenandoah National Park, because there is a ton of hiking in the area. Some of my favorites are Rip Rap Trail, Jones Run Falls, and White Oak Canyon, but there's plenty more to explore.

    • C
      Aug. 15, 2018

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      Great views, great hikes, lots of amenities, some sites swampy in rain

      This campground is a great way to experience Shenandoah National Park. It's close to many hikes with varying challenge levels, and the beautiful views are breathtaking. It's a nice break from the heat in the summer time.

      Campsites: Some sites are close to a swamp, and don't drain as well, especially after rain. I was in site A65 in mid-August, and the firepit wasn't usable due to the large puddle it was in for two days after rain. It was a good site otherwise, with shade and half-gravel, half-grass and close proximity to the bathroom but not on top of it. My sister was at site A64, and their site was lacking gravel and never really dried out. They would not stay at that particular site again. If you are going with other campers, the sites behind you are as close as the sites next to you, so we could have had several options for camping together in addition to looking at side-by-side sites.

      Rangers & Wildlife: The rangers are great, definitely need to keep your food put away or it will be confiscated. This is best for the bears. I saw one directly across from my site one morning (as well as others throughout Shenandoah), but never felt threatened. It was exciting and amusing to watch the rangers "herd" a couple of errant bears out of the campsite and back into the swamp with airhorns and paintball guns. Deer are everywhere, like squirrels in a city park. None came right up to people, but they had no problem grazing near us. Barred owls called all night under the Milky Way. Racoons checked out my site overnight as well, no harm no foul, just cute footprints.

      Conveniences: It was extremely helpful to be near a camp store with a small grocery, counter food service and gasoline. The showers have hot water, but be sure to bring plenty of quarters. You are very near the Big Meadows Lodge, with food and a gift shop. You can easily head 10 miles north to the Skyland Resort, where the Taproom stays open till 11pm (that was a good alternative one rainy night). Skyland has a sit-down restaurant as well. The Byrd Visitor center is a nice stop.

      Wine & Whisky Shuttle out of Skyland: Just a heads up, at Skyland Resort, we signed up for the Wine & Whisky Trail to get out of the rain, $40/person including lunch. We were gone 10:30am to 4pm. The communication was very poor--we did not realize the tastings were an additional cost, and when we were just collecting info, the person at the counter said it would be four stops. Upon returning to sign up & pay, we learned it was only three stops and they did not give us a voucher, which we apparently needed to board the shuttle. Fortunately on the day of the shuttle, the person who sold us the tickets was there and remembered that she forgot to give us the voucher. After all that, it was a fun outing and a very welcome change from camping in the rain. The driver added a lot of background info, and also worked part time as a Shenandoah ranger, and was a local. Definitely check out Copper Fox Distillery if that is your thing.

      I can't wait to go back, hopefully more than once, and hopefully with clearer skies. We fell in love with Shenandoah National Park.

    • SwitchbackKids
      Jun. 28, 2017

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      Standard NPS campsite with great access to Shenandoah National Park - avoid during rain!

      Shenandoah is a true oasis from urban areas in the eastern U.S. Even though it is only 75 miles from D.C., Shenandoah feels like another world. Big Meadows Campground allowed us a convenient home base for exploring many of Shenandoah’s trails and overlooks.

      We visited in late October, slightly past peak fall colors season, but we still saw the end of what was a beautiful leaf season.

      You can’t control the weather, but if your visit to Shenandoah calls for rain, I’d avoid this campground. The drainage must be faulty because when we arrived, most of the available sites were too muddy to set up our tent. We found a higher site, but still struggled with weather woes at our campsite.

      Beyond its drainage issues, this campground was a standard national park campground, providing basic but adequate amenities like flush toilets and a picnic table.

      We still had a great time at Shenandoah. We were visiting with family, so we hiked a few crowd-pleaser trails: Rose River Loop and Overall Falls were two of our favorites. We enjoyed the views from scenic Skyline Drive, and also would highly recommend visiting the Byrd Visitor Center (one of our favorites in the whole NPS!)

      You can read much more about our five days in the park on our blog: Switchback Kids (Shenandoah)

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 24, 2021

      Graves Mountain Farm Campground

      Misleading campsing website

      Looked forward to camping at Graves Mountain and enjoy the festivities. The campsite is very very small. They say dispersed, but it is a small field as you can not access the others fields. Horse trailers, rvs, tents, and overland trailers all park right next that to each other. We set up away from everyone to properly distance ourselves due to their covid protocols. They told us to move next to others but there was no space. We got our money back and moved to another site. I would avoid this campsite. If you want to visit it for the apple or Fall festival just camp somewhere else and drive to it. No amenities. No cell service.

    • L
      Jul. 28, 2019

      Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

      It’s magical

      Big Meadows is the most centrally located campground within Shenandoah. It’s near a huge meadow full of paths to explore. Great place to see the stars at night too. The campground itself is popular so if you’re seeking something more remote and private this isn’t the place to sleep for you. Watch out for deer.

    Guide to Shenandoah

    Fort Valley Ranch Campground provides dedicated equestrian facilities for riders exploring the Shenandoah region. Located at an elevation of 800-1,200 feet, the campground sits in a valley surrounded by the northern section of the George Washington National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with cooler nights, while fall brings 50-65°F days ideal for trail riding.

    What to do

    Horseback riding at ranch campgrounds: Fort Valley Ranch offers guided trail rides directly from the campground. As visitor Jason G. notes, "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus... we found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading within a 10-minute drive."

    Fishing in stocked ponds: Big Meadows Campground provides fishing opportunities alongside hiking. "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.

    Sunset viewing: Graves Mountain Farm Campground offers unique sunset views over horse pastures. Alex R. writes, "Awesome views, good food in the restaurant up the hill. Lots of people on horses running around which we loved, and good live music after dinner."

    Hiking to overlooks: Trout Pond Recreation Area features several trails with mountain views. One visitor recommends, "The Lina Constable Overlook right off the camp loop is 1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step. Gorgeous!"

    What campers like

    Clean facilities: Many equine-focused campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. At Big Meadows, Kim L. appreciates that the "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."

    Wildlife viewing: Campers regularly spot animals at many Shenandoah campgrounds. Veronica S. from Big Meadows notes, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached."

    Clear lakes: Trout Pond Recreation Area features pristine water bodies. Fred F. reports, "Swimming is excellent with sand beach. Big catfish in clear water. Water was so clean that it was throbbing with freshwater jellyfish. Very clean campground."

    Firefly displays: Summer campers can witness impressive natural light shows. "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," shares Veronica S. about her Big Meadows experience.

    What you should know

    Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations mean temperature fluctuations. Carol B. from Big Meadows recalls, "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water."

    Insect activity: Bug populations vary by season. Veronica S. warns about Big Meadows, "The bugs when we got here were kinda crazy. They don't bite but they swarm your head and try to enter every orifice for some reason. A head net was helpful."

    Flooding risk: Yokums Vacationland sites near water can experience rapid changes. Kelly G. shares, "I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising... Later I learned this area is prone to flooding."

    Limited cell service: Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the region have poor connectivity. About Trout Pond Recreation Area, Laure D. notes there's "a pay phone, which is helpful because there is no cell service. In case of an emergency, you are a 20 minute drive to call for help."

    Tips for camping with families

    Kid-friendly activities: Shenandoah Crossing offers numerous family options. Nicole P. shares, "Plenty to do at the resort... Kayak, putt putt, tennis, swim in one of the pools, hot tub, work out in the gym, walk on trails, ride horses, take a carriage ride or eat at the 'real' restaurant."

    Food storage safety: Bear activity requires proper precautions. Terri S. from Big Meadows notes, "Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Fire ring with grate was available."

    Ranger programs: Educational activities help children learn about local ecology. Kim L. mentions Big Meadows has a "nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs."

    Farm activities: Horse campgrounds often include other animals and activities. At Graves Mountain Farm, Lucinda B. appreciates that it's "dog friendly. Bathrooms available. Lodge close by if food, warmth, or better restroom desired."

    Tips from RVers

    Site leveling needs: RV sites at equestrian campgrounds vary in quality. Jason G. from Fort Valley Ranch shares, "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed."

    Access road considerations: Mountain roads can challenge larger rigs. Jason G. continues, "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us."

    Hookup options: Water access can be limited at some horse-friendly sites. Laure D. advises about Trout Pond, "Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground."

    Shade availability: Summer heat requires consideration of site placement. Jason G. notes at Fort Valley Ranch, "There was an abundance of shade throughout the site and the entire campground," making summer camping more comfortable.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Shenandoah, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Shenandoah, VA is Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 125 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Shenandoah, VA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Shenandoah, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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