Best Campgrounds near Strasburg, VA

Nestled within Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, the area surrounding Strasburg provides a mixture of established campgrounds and primitive sites across national forest and park lands. Notable options include Elizabeth Furnace Campground in George Washington National Forest, located about 8 miles southwest of Strasburg, and several Shenandoah National Park sites within a 30-minute drive. The region includes campgrounds that accommodate diverse camping styles from tent-only areas to full-hookup RV sites, with several facilities like Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park offering cabin rentals and glamping opportunities alongside traditional camping areas.

Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with Shenandoah National Park sites like Mathews Arm typically open from May through October. Elizabeth Furnace maintains year-round operation but with limited facilities during winter months when water systems are winterized. First-come, first-served sites at Elizabeth Furnace and similar forest service campgrounds fill quickly on summer weekends and during peak fall foliage season. Road access varies significantly by location, with some areas requiring navigation of winding mountain roads that may challenge larger recreational vehicles. Cell service remains limited or nonexistent throughout much of the surrounding forest and park lands. A review noted, "There is no cell service in this area. The sites are very close together. Do not think of this as a secluded camping experience."

The proximity to Passage Creek and the Shenandoah River represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the area. Several visitors highlighted the combination of water access and hiking opportunities as key attractions, particularly at Elizabeth Furnace where multiple trail networks connect directly to the campground. Public lands throughout the region support both developed campgrounds and more primitive options, with varying levels of amenities from basic vault toilets to sites with full shower facilities. Campers report mixed experiences with site privacy, with Elizabeth Furnace receiving both praise for its wooded setting and criticism for closely-spaced sites. According to one camper, "It has wooded camping sites. There are spaces for RV and tents which is nice. There is also plenty of hiking trails to be completed around the campgrounds of various levels from beginner to more strenuous."

Best Camping Sites Near Strasburg, Virginia (151)

    1. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 622-6840

    $30 - $40 / night

    "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers."

    "In my opinion it has the best location of the 3 Turks they have. It’s it the woods close to a boat landing you can see a bit of the river. In the fall or spring I’m sure the view is amazing."

    2. Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    45 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3132

    $30 - $75 / night

    "This is a nice and very large campground tucked away in the northern part of Shenandoah. The facilities and grounds were well kept and it’s a short car’s travel (but there’s also a trail!)"

    "There are a few trails encompassing and leading out from the campground, and it's nice to have a central location from which you can out on small hikes."

    3. Gooney Creek Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 635-4066

    "We are tent campers and we’re looking for a place close to Shenandoah to ride our motorcycles. This was 3 miles from the north entrance to the park, perfect."

    "Hike up a trail or up through the creek itself to a swimming hole only accessible to campers. Saw some decent sized fish swimming around in there."

    4. Elizabeth Furnace Campground

    9 Reviews
    Strasburg, VA
    5 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "Campground Review: What a great find, so close to a town….though feels like you are deep in the forest!"

    "In the valley outside of Shenandoah, it was a nice spot to return to at night. There are also some hiking trails across the street."

    5. Hawk Recreation Area Campground

    15 Reviews
    Star Tannery, VA
    11 miles
    Website

    "Although it's not immediately convenient to the various hiking trails in the Lee Ranger district of Washington-Jefferson NF, this little site is tucked away atop a mountain far from any crowds."

    "Tent sites are rough, some outside ring sites have tent pads."

    6. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

    9 Reviews
    Strasburg, VA
    4 miles

    "Great spot right outside Shenandoah NP with quick access to the park or nearby trails. great fishing and hikes for kids, too!"

    "There are a couple of sites that have a path to the creek that flows behind the campground.There is also plenty of hiking trails to be completed around the campgrounds of various levels from beginner to"

    7. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    120 Reviews
    Stanley, VA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    $30 - $75 / night

    "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."

    8. Candy Hill Campground

    22 Reviews
    Winchester, VA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 662-8010

    $38 - $77 / night

    "Unfortunately, it is located right on a major highway. This means there is easy access, but the traffic noise is less than ideal. But the gem of this place is the management and staff!"

    "No restaurant within walking range so have food on hand. There are a few places that will deliver but the food is a 5 out of 10 at best. Hwy 81 is right next door so you will hear road noise."

    9. Low Water Bridge Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 635-7277

    $30 - $125 / night

    "Positive: Friendly staff, near the river, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit. Negative: sanitary fascilities are old."

    "Sites 31 and 32 (despite being near the campground’s public river access) look large and private. Both riverside."

    10. The Cove Campground

    15 Reviews
    High View, WV
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 858-2882

    "Several rustic campsites with a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."

    "The road is gravel and could use some work, I’d recommend 4x4 drive. We really enjoyed it and will go back. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, water situation and the roads could use some work."

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Recent Reviews near Strasburg, VA

1035 Reviews of 151 Strasburg Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Quite and comfortable in the woods.

    Hosts are great.  Bathhouse was very clean.  Fall folliage was perfect.  The campgound is really 1.6 mi from rte 50 but feels longer the first time due to narrow roads and hills.  For being on the side of a mountain, the sites were suprisining level.  Only needed a few blocks under the wheels.  We chose one of the pull throughs.

    Don't forget to plug in well pump or you won't have water!

    30' TT

  • E
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Terrific

    Just got home from a lovely week in Romney.  We found the perfect campground, a mile or so off route 50, deep in the woods.  Each campsite surrounded by trees.  Since we have a popup, Shelly recommended a site not far from the bathhouse.  Perfect.  We were in Romney to ride the Potomac Eagle, but Shelly also recommended other experiences in Romney (Fort Mill Ridge, Indian Mound Cemetery, historic David House).  A very nice autumn week.

  • Gina T.
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Loved it!

    This was our first experience camping.  We just retired and rented a camper for a trial run and we just loved it.  It was quiet there and I slept like a baby.  Very positive experience.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    Love this Campground

    I love camping in Matthews Arm, it has a flush toilet restroom. The site A7 has a hug parking, can fit RVs and spacious area for tent, table, fire pit. Only downside is that the tent pad is kind of connected to site A09, so privacy is not the best.

  • Zach L.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

    Fall Leaf Peeping Trip

    We stayed here for 3 nights. Perfect campground with everything you need. Bathrooms are very clean. Ice, propane, and other items are available on site at the store. Halloween was in full effect including a haunted walk. Sites are spacious and have natural stone in ground fire pits instead of rusted metal rims which adds character. Dog park, pool, and plenty of games are available on site. Harrisonburg is down the road if you to need to stop in town.

  • Jack W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Great dispersed spot

    Only a few spots around, but beautiful spot right on the river with fire pits. No other amenities but it was exactly what we were looking for

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Cedar Creek Trail dispersed campsite

    Cedar Creek Trail Dispersed Campsite

    Went to Stultz gap and was a little unimpressed. Drove about 10 minutes further north on the same road.

    Location is approximate. After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there.

    Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring.

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Camping

    The spot itself is right next to the road. The map seems to indicate trails connected but they appear very overgrown.

    Appears some may use this with horses as some small amount of waste was left behind.

    We ended up driving about 10-15 minutes further north along the same road and found a nicer spot with an established fire ring.

  • Brian B.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    The Retreat at Shenandoah Meadows

    Great place, zero oversight…

    First, let me say that the viewers at this campground are incredible. We stayed there this September and my family had a fantastic time in their cabins. When we got there, we found our cabin and these had codes to be able to enter. All was fine till we started looking at bathrooms.

    None of the bathroom facilities are labeled, male or female, but it was just our family there so it wasn’t a really big deal. Later on in the weekend, another group showed up, and then we felt as though we needed to try and find or figure out another way to ensure that the girls were safe.

    Every building in the campground is open you can walk literally anywhere you would like. Nobody is there to enforce anything. We had such a good time, that I still give it four stars. We had such good views that I would still give it four stars. But I would be aware of what you’re going to.


Guide to Strasburg

Camping near Strasburg, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Shenandoah National Park is nearby, with trails starting right from campgrounds like Big Meadows Campground. One camper mentioned, "We went and did several hikes, including Dark Hollow Falls, and spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing."
  • Fishing: The Shenandoah River State Park is a great spot for fishing. A reviewer noted, "There are numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty and distance," making it perfect for a day by the water.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Lewis Mountain Campground are known for their wildlife. One visitor shared, "I adore Lewis Mountain. It's quieter than the other Shenandoah sites, it has clean facilities, and is right on the Appalachian Trail."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers are very clean, and there is a laundry room."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites. A camper at Blackwater Falls State Park said, "Campsites are just the right size. Very level and nicely done."
  • Proximity to Attractions: Campgrounds like Bull Run Regional Park are close to historical sites. One family shared, "We booked site 136 due to proximity of the playground... We were able to drive to a DC Metro station easily."

What you should know:

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Matthews Arm Campground noted, "It was difficult to not compare the two campgrounds because Loft Mountain was so comfortable, quiet, and well cared for."
  • Limited Amenities: Some sites, like Lewis Mountain Campground, have fewer amenities. A camper mentioned, "The camp store on site is well stocked, but there are no showers."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise, especially on weekends. A camper at Harpers Ferry KOA complained, "Partiers with foul mouths throughout the campground. No enforcement of quiet hours."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and activities. A family at Bull Run Regional Park enjoyed the "playground and trails were nice, kids really enjoyed the chance to take in nature."
  • Plan for Proximity: Select campgrounds close to attractions. One reviewer at Greenbrier State Park said, "There is a pretty lake there and very close to the AT."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. A camper at Rocky Gap State Park mentioned, "The campground has their own swim beach with a great playground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the level of your site. A visitor at Harpers Ferry KOA noted, "Our site was so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Big Meadows Campground said, "The farther out you get, the more spaced out they seemed to be."
  • Plan for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups and dump stations. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground appreciated, "There are plenty of potable water spigots and there is a dump station nearby."

Camping near Strasburg, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp at Strasburg campgrounds?

Camping costs near Strasburg vary by location and amenities. Mathews Arm Campground in Shenandoah National Park offers sites at moderate rates, typically requiring an additional park entrance fee. Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders provides tent sites, RV sites, and cabins at different price points. Public campgrounds like Elizabeth Furnace tend to be more affordable, while private RV parks and resorts command premium rates for their additional amenities. Some campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays, and prices typically vary by season with higher rates during peak summer and fall foliage periods. Most campgrounds accept reservations online, and some may charge reservation fees. For specific pricing, check campground websites as rates are updated annually.

What campgrounds are available near Strasburg, VA?

Strasburg offers excellent access to several nearby campgrounds. Elizabeth Furnace Campground is a fantastic option that feels secluded in the forest while still being close to town. For those seeking unique experiences, Neff Treehouse by Mt Hope provides glamping accommodations nestled in the tree canopy. Other options within driving distance include Gooney Creek Campground near Front Royal, Hawk Recreation Area Campground, and Candy Hill Campground near Winchester. The Shenandoah National Park area also offers Mathews Arm Campground for those willing to venture a bit further. Most campgrounds in the region provide access to hiking trails and outdoor activities in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley.

What amenities are offered at Strasburg VA campgrounds?

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views offers exceptional amenities including beautifully manicured grounds, a large dog park, a swimming pool, and friendly staff. This campground is adjacent to a working farm where you can see various animals grazing. Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages provides wooded sites with stone borders, stone walls, and stone fire pits at every site. Most campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets. Some offer additional conveniences such as water hookups, dump stations, and shower facilities. RV-friendly options typically provide electrical hookups, while public campgrounds like Mathews Arm in Shenandoah National Park maintain a more rustic experience with limited amenities but beautiful natural surroundings.