Shenandoah Valley's Star Tannery area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with temperatures typically 5-10°F cooler than surrounding lowlands. The region features mixed hardwood forests with access to both mountain terrain and riverside camping opportunities. Winter camping is available at several locations, though water systems may be winterized from November through March at higher elevations.
What to do
Riverside activities: The Shenandoah River provides excellent fishing and water recreation opportunities. "Within a 10-minute drive, there are opportunities for hiking and river activities. We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading," notes a visitor at Fort Valley Ranch.
Cavern tours: Several underground cavern systems offer year-round exploration with consistent 56°F temperatures. "The cavern tour was lovely. Marked well, lighted, relaxed. Our tour guide, Haley, was a sweetheart, taking time for the two little kids, and still giving the information older people like," according to one camper at Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems range from beginner-friendly paths to challenging mountain ascents. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it," shares a visitor to Harper's Ferry Campground.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Rural location provides minimal light pollution for astronomical viewing. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," mentions a camper at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, noting the exceptional night sky visibility.
Natural water features: Campgrounds with swimming access to rivers or fishing ponds rate highly among visitors. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," reports a Fort Valley Ranch guest.
Wildlife observation: Area campgrounds offer opportunities to observe deer, birds, and other wildlife. "Wild life is visible everywhere you go. The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," notes a visitor at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no cellular connectivity. At Smoke Hole Caverns, one visitor noted, "No cell phone coverage," which can affect navigation and communication planning.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings variable weather with potential for muddy conditions. "We stayed in early April and were surprised to find it so slow (although it was in the middle of the week)," shares a camper at Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River.
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer months. "Easy access to Luray caverns. All level padded sites. Most with Blue ridge views," notes a visitor to KOA Luray RV Resort, highlighting the importance of securing specific sites in advance.
Firewood regulations: Campgrounds may restrict outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. "They state that you're only allowed to burn the firewood that you purchase from them which is tricky because their office closed very early everyday," explains a camper at Luray RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "If you have kids definitely get closer to the play ground, you won't regret it!" advises a visitor to Luray RV Resort, highlighting the value of strategic site selection.
Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "The park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners," notes a visitor at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, making it particularly suitable for families with varying experience levels.
Swimming opportunities: River access points provide natural swimming areas during warmer months. "Campground access to the Shenandoah River," mentions a reviewer at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, noting the convenient water access from camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV sites vary in levelness across campgrounds. "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless," shares a reviewer at Fort Valley Ranch.
Mountain driving considerations: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs in certain areas. "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," notes a Fort Valley Ranch visitor.
Site spacing: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of privacy between sites. "The RV sites at this campground are very spaced out, you have a lot of room to each side of your RV," explains a camper at Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River, addressing an important consideration for RV camping near Star Tannery.
