Shenandoah National Park stretches across eight counties in Virginia, with elevations ranging from 600 to over 4,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones and ecosystems. The park's campgrounds generally operate at higher elevations than surrounding areas, with the tent-only sites at Loft Mountain situated at approximately 3,300 feet. Winter camping options are extremely limited, with most park facilities closing from late October through early April due to frequent mountain snow and ice.
What to do
Morning hikes: Loft Mountain Campground offers multiple trail access points directly from the camping area. "The AT runs right through the campground," notes Katrin M., making it easy to access scenic day hikes without driving. Several campers mention the sunrise views are worth waking up early for.
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows Campground serves as an excellent base for wildlife observation, especially deer watching. "Lots of deer walking through and room to hang hammocks and chill," reports Anna R., while another visitor noted, "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached."
Cavern exploration: The region features multiple underground cave systems within short driving distance of camping areas. "The cavern tour (discounted for guests at the RV park) was lovely," shares Clark P. about Endless Caverns RV Resort, adding that tours are "marked well, lighted, relaxed," with guides who accommodate different age groups.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers seek out more private locations away from larger facilities. "The sites are secluded, there's bathrooms that are in good shape, and it's super close to some awesome hikes and great sunset lookouts," reports a reviewer about Lewis Mountain Campground. Its first-come, first-served policy attracts many last-minute visitors.
Dark night skies: The higher elevation campgrounds offer exceptional stargazing opportunities, especially in generator-free areas. "At night it can get loud with kids running around and being noisy," notes Veronica S. about Big Meadows, but adds "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."
River access: Campsites along the Shenandoah River provide water-based recreation options. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River," says Ricki F. about Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park, adding that visitors enjoy "tons of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park." These sites offer fishing and swimming access directly from campsites.
What you should know
Bug activity varies by season: Summer camping can bring insect challenges. "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 to get the tent and screen room set up," warns Veronica S. about camping at Big Meadows in peak summer.
Elevation impacts temperatures: Campgrounds at higher points along Skyline Drive experience different weather than valley locations. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," reports Carol B. about Big Meadows Campground in late season camping.
Primitive sites fill early: The most secluded camping locations throughout the park are often claimed by early afternoon. "We stayed here cause Big Meadows was full. Not too bad just really close to people and much smaller than Big Meadows," reports one Lewis Mountain visitor who arrived later in the day. For first-come, first-served sites, arrive before noon.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Family-friendly options outside the national park include sites with swimming amenities. "They have a clean pool and playground for little kids. The nearby dairy cow farm is fun too," notes a reviewer about Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray.
Kid-focused programming: Several campgrounds offer scheduled activities for children. "The 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," reports Zach L. about Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Wildlife education: Ranger-led programs provide learning opportunities. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," notes Kim L. about Big Meadows, which offers scheduled presentations throughout the camping season. These events typically run from spring through fall, focusing on wildlife, history, and conservation.
Tips from RVers
Mountain terrain challenges: The region's steep roads require preparation. "Roads are gravel and can be a bit steep, 4-wheel drive is helpful," advises Clark P. about Endless Caverns, while another camper notes that "the higher sites might require your TV have 4WD."
Generator restrictions: Quiet camping areas exist for those who prefer them. "No generators are allowed in parts of the A and B sections," explains Mary S. about Mathews Arm Campground, which offers a quieter experience than some other parks. These generator-free zones can provide a more peaceful overnight experience for tent campers.
Seasonal facility limitations: Late or early season RV camping may find reduced services. "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground," reports Carol B. about Big Meadows during November camping, though adding that "bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water, and a utility sink available."
