The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Washington, VA

1,005 Reviews

Camping near Washington, Virginia encompasses a range of options within the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley region. The area is anchored by Shenandoah National Park, which features several established campgrounds including Mathews Arm in the northern section and Big Meadows further south. Within a short drive, campers can access Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, which remains open year-round with full amenities. The region also includes dispersed camping opportunities within Shenandoah National Park for those seeking more primitive experiences. Most campgrounds in this area sit within 70 miles of Washington DC, making them popular weekend destinations for urban residents seeking mountain scenery and outdoor recreation.

Most campgrounds in the Shenandoah region operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Mathews Arm Campground typically opens from May 6 to October 30, while Big Meadows extends slightly longer into November. Winter camping is limited primarily to Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage in all campgrounds. National Park Service campgrounds enforce strict regulations regarding food storage, with rangers actively monitoring compliance. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many campgrounds, particularly those within Shenandoah National Park. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months and fall foliage season when campgrounds frequently reach capacity.

The camping experiences vary significantly across the region. National Park campgrounds like Mathews Arm offer more rustic accommodations with no electric hookups or showers, but provide access to hiking trails including connections to the Appalachian Trail. According to reviews, "Mathews Arm has excellent trails to Overall Run Falls and sites with enough brush that you don't feel your neighbor is on your doorstep." Private campgrounds and state parks typically offer more amenities, including full hookups for RVs, shower facilities, and recreational activities. Many campgrounds in the region are situated to provide convenient access to Skyline Drive, the scenic roadway running the length of Shenandoah National Park, as well as numerous hiking trails, fishing spots along the Shenandoah River, and historic sites throughout the valley.

Map showing campgrounds near Washington, VirginiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Washington, Virginia (137)

    1. Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    44 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3132

    $30 - $75 / night

    "This campground has all the amenities you need for a great family getaway; bathroom faculties, easy hikes, wildlife, and is an easy drove from Washington, DC."

    "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!)"

    2. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    12 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."

    3. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    119 Reviews
    Stanley, VA
    20 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."

    4. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray

    24 Reviews
    Luray, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 300-1697

    "Close to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive."

    "They had plenty of appearances of Yogi or Cindy bear at activities and just driving around the park on a golf cart."

    5. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park

    15 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    "It is suitable for novice campers to experienced off-trail campers. You'll never tire of the wonders this beautiful piece of America has to offer."

    "There was definitely a lot less privacy/space between sites here at SNP than I’ve noted at other parks across Virginia."

    6. Gooney Creek Campground

    16 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    12 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."

    7. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

    17 Reviews
    Luray, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 743-7222

    $31 - $220 / night

    "Adjacent to a working farm where cows, sheep, llamas, chickens and roosters can graze next to the campsites.

    The grounds were beautifully manicured and incredibly clean."

    "We stayed at this KOA on our way to Virginia Beach but wanted to a day in Shenandoah National Park. "

    8. Low Water Bridge Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    13 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."

    9. Elizabeth Furnace Campground

    9 Reviews
    Strasburg, VA
    17 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "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."

    "Campground Review:

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

    10. Lewis Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    31 Reviews
    Hood, VA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    $30 / night

    "Lewis mountain has all the amenities of home within walking distance if you just can’t live without them; bathrooms,showers, kitchen sink, fire pit, small store and 2 personal vehicle parking spots steps"

    "Arrived before the weekend, around late morning. Greeted by the park ranger, they gave the basic information for these sites. Limited spots here. You’re pretty close to your neighbor."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 137 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos near Washington, VA

394 Photos of 137 Washington Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Washington, VA

1005 Reviews of 137 Washington Campgrounds

Guide to Washington

Camping near Washington, Virginia, offers a great escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are campgrounds that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails right from your campsite. At Big Meadows Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "We went and did several hikes, including Dark Hollow Falls," making it clear that there are fantastic hiking opportunities nearby.
  • Stargazing: Enjoy the night sky away from city lights. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," highlighting the campground's serene atmosphere.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: If you love water, check out Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Misty Mountain Camp Resort stated, "Big open field, great shower and laundry facilities as well."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Oak Ridge Campground mentioned, "Very large sites," which is great for those who want a bit of privacy.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Misty Mountain Camp Resort host events for kids, making it a hit for families. One parent said, "The staff were awesome," emphasizing the welcoming environment.

What you should know:

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground advised, "Arrive early enough in the day to snag a better site."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups or showers. A review for Matthews Arm Campground noted, "No electricity or hookups at Matthews Arm," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are known in the area, so it's essential to store food properly. One camper at Big Meadows Campground warned, "There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A parent at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "The waterpark is new and loud so we avoid but nice if you have young kids."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Harpers Ferry KOA said, "Partiers with foul mouths throughout the campground," so be ready to manage noise levels.
  • Pack Games and Activities: Bring along games or crafts to keep kids entertained. A camper at Misty Mountain Camp Resort noted, "The kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry KOA mentioned, "The sites were so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend."
  • Be Aware of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow or winding roads. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground advised, "Careful some near steep drop off."
  • Plan for Limited Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground noted, "I didn’t see a site that would accommodate rigs over 20’ or so," so check your setup before heading out.

Camping around Washington, VA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Washington, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Washington, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 137 campgrounds and RV parks near Washington, VA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Washington, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Washington, VA is Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 44 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Washington, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Washington, VA.

What parks are near Washington, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Washington, VA that allow camping, notably Shenandoah National Park and Prince William Forest Park.

Keep Exploring