Best Campgrounds near Waynesboro, VA

Camping near Waynesboro, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails in Shenandoah National Park. Many campers enjoy the convenience of hiking trails that start right from the campgrounds. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground," highlighting the easy access to nature.
• Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing," which shows how magical the nights can be.
• Fishing and Swimming: At Sherando Lake Campground, you can enjoy swimming and fishing. One visitor noted, "The lake is beautiful and refreshing," making it a great spot for water activities.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Loft Mountain Campground stated, "Restrooms are nice and very clean," which is a big plus for many.
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites that provide a sense of privacy. One camper at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "The farther out you get, the more spaced out they seemed to be," which is great for those who value space.
• Proximity to Attractions: Campers enjoy being close to local attractions. A visitor at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "We could watch them from our spot!" referring to the fun activities available for kids.

What you should know:

• No Hookups at Some Sites: Many campgrounds, like Mathews Arm Campground, do not offer electric or water hookups. A camper noted, "No electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm," so be prepared for a more primitive experience.
• Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped, especially during peak season. A review from Lewis Mountain Campground mentioned, "Most of the sites here are very close together," which might not be ideal for everyone.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. One camper at Devil’s Backbone Camp expressed frustration, stating, "$150 per night is crazy. Nothing special about the campground except proximity to Devil's Backbone."

Tips for camping with families:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A parent at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "The kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad," which is a fun feature for families.
• Choose Less Crowded Times: To avoid noise and chaos, consider camping during weekdays or off-peak seasons. A camper at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA mentioned, "The sites are small and close to each other," which can be overwhelming on busy weekends.
• Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "There’s a fill station across from the beach parking area," but it's good to be prepared.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Before booking, check the size of the sites to ensure they can accommodate your RV. A reviewer at Big Meadows Campground advised, "Be sure to do your due diligence before choosing your site."
• Be Mindful of Generator Hours: Some campgrounds have specific hours for generator use. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "Generator hours are 08:00-10:00 and 16:00-19:00," so plan accordingly.
• Prepare for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds in the area have poor cell service. A visitor at Mathews Arm Campground noted, "No cell service," so be ready to unplug.

Camping around Waynesboro, VA, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right campground for your needs!