Shenandoah River State Park offers glamping accommodations in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet. The park spans 1,604 acres with over 5 miles of shoreline along the Shenandoah River. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F, while summer averages 70-90°F with moderate humidity compared to lower elevations.
What to do
Primitive camping by the river: Low Water Bridge Campground provides direct river access camping with varied site options. "We stayed at site 42 which was waterfront but on a high bank, so we didn't have river access - but that wasn't an issue for us. There is a big tree blocking a bit of the river view, but still a beautiful site," notes a visitor to Low Water Bridge Campground.
Winter stargazing: Glamping close to Strasburg, Virginia remains available year-round at select sites. A visitor to Trout Pond Recreation Area reports, "We stayed here December 10, 2020. The campground was closed for the winter, but we called ahead and they were fine with us staying in the parking area. No amenities, but we were in a Revel, so didn't need anything anyway. We were completely alone there, which was pretty cool."
Fishing at varied elevations: Trout Pond Recreation Area offers fishing in crystal-clear waters. "The Lake is socked with trout (license required) during the regular season for those who want to fish," mentions one reviewer. The area features Virginia's only natural lake plus stocked ponds at different elevations.
What campers like
Off-season camping flexibility: Winter glamping options near Strasburg remain accessible despite reduced services. "Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," notes a visitor at Big Meadows Campground during extreme cold. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F."
Wildlife viewing without crowds: The area supports diverse wildlife year-round. "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," explains a camper.
No-frills natural setting: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park provides basic facilities balanced with natural beauty. "This is a good state park. Not anything fancy. The views are amazing and the hiking make up for the no frills compared to other state park facilities. Peace and quiet. Communing with nature at its finest," reports a camper.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs dramatically between campgrounds. "There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well). You'll have to drive 10-15 in either direction on Rt. 211 before you can catch a signal," warns a Low Water Bridge Campground visitor.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Winter campers should plan for limited facilities. One camper at Big Meadows notes, "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground."
River conditions vary with rainfall: The Shenandoah River's current strength changes seasonally. "The current can be strong, so be mindful of the river level," cautions a Low Water Bridge visitor. "It's also significantly calmer water-wise" at designated launches compared to riverbank access points.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak scheduling for less crowding: School-year weekdays provide maximum space. A Rock Tavern River Kamp visitor reports, "We could not have asked for a nicer location! Our tent was about 20 feet from the river and the campground had everything we could have asked for (including spotless bathroom and shower facilities!)"
Kid-friendly activities beyond swimming: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray offers structured activities year-round. "The birthday boy also loved the outdoor laser tag! Staff was attentive. 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," shares a parent.
Rustic options with kid appeal: Primitive camping can engage children. "This campground is nice and 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," explains a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views accommodates various RV sizes but requires planning. "The site was big enough for our motor home and Jeep. Full hook-ups with 50-amp service," shares an RVer. "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."
Leveling challenges: Many mountain sites require leveling blocks. "Our only real drawback was our site was not even close to level. It probably shouldn't have been available for a 40'+ RV," notes a Jellystone Park visitor.
Winter electrical limitations: Power availability varies by season. "It states online that it's only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites," reports a Trout Pond Recreation Area camper. "We found that sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU (not sure what amp electric though). While 3, 5, 7, and 9 are designated Host spots, site 3 had the sign covered and an RV using it."
