Cabin camping near Waynesboro, Virginia ranges from rustic to modern accommodations nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains where elevations typically range from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with spring and fall offering mild temperatures ideal for outdoor recreation, while summer nights can drop into the 50s even after warm days. Many cabin sites sit along waterways including the South River, Middle River, and mountain creeks that flow through the Shenandoah Valley.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Several cabins provide easy access to popular waterfall hikes, with Crabtree Falls Campground situated just a mile from one of Virginia's most spectacular cascades. "The campground did have a trail that runs around the lake. Across from a beautiful waterfall," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenience of water features near their cabin site.
Fishing opportunities: Cabin campers can enjoy multiple stocked fishing areas, particularly at Montebello Resort where the trout pond requires no license. "The trout pond is a nice touch you can fish without a license, and you pay for what you catch, we enjoyed fresh trout for dinner during our stay, and from what I saw, anybody with a hook can catch one," reports a camper who took advantage of this amenity.
National Park exploration: Cabin locations near Shenandoah National Park offer direct trail access. "The AT is also close by and easily accessed," explains one Crabtree Falls visitor, while another camper at Loft Mountain noted "Nice small trail that runs around the campground. The campstore offers more than enough!"
What campers like
Creek and riverside sites: Many cabin campers specifically request waterfront locations. "The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. You could hear people on the other side of the trees, but no one was loud and it was very peaceful at night!" shared a visitor at Loft Mountain Campground who appreciated the natural sound barriers.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple cabin locations feature resident wildlife populations. One camper at Misty Mountain observed, "We stay two nights and had a great time! There are lots of activities to do as a family and everything is kept up nicely." Walnut Hills visitors frequently mention deer sightings along the lake shore.
Diverse recreation options: Many cabin facilities include unexpected amenities. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, one guest reported, "There's always tons of activities to do for everyone of age. Gold cart parades, crafts hours, poker run, corn hole tournaments. And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar, restaurant."
What you should know
Cabin preparation: Bring appropriate supplies based on cabin type. At Walnut Hills Campground, a visitor noted their site had "water, 50amp and cable. Dump station on premises. Nice dog park for our fur babies and doggie duty stations with bags in several locations throughout the park."
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies dramatically across cabin locations. One Montebello visitor warned, "The location of the campground is remote with zero cell coverage or wifi, and other than the store on-site, there isn't much outside of a few hiking trails, within 30 minutes."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts cabin comfort significantly. "We were there in October and they close on 10/31 for the season so we got the feeling they weren't that into it anymore. Bathrooms and showers were disgusting," reported one late-season guest, while spring visitors often mention high water levels affecting streamside sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Choose cabins with appropriate facilities for children. "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip!" shared a visitor at Misty Mountain Camp Resort who appreciated the organized activities.
Spacing and layout: Consider cabin proximity when traveling with young children. "This campground was really great for a family with small children. There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome. The only detractors were that our site (52) was tiny so it was a tad stressful having kids running around right beside the road," cautioned a Misty Mountain camper.
Bathroom accessibility: Evaluate bathroom distance from cabins. One Montebello visitor noted, "There is a central restroom facility, just the one, for the entire campground, and the men's room was 2 stalls and a urinal with 2 showers, it was cleaned daily, although not what I'd call spotless."
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Many RV campers use cabins when maintenance issues arise. "We stopped here after a failed hitch caused damage to the truck and trailer. They were very accommodating and treated us like family," explained a Shenandoah Valley Campground visitor who needed an emergency cabin.
Seasonal traffic patterns: RV campers report varying experiences with cabin areas based on timing. "We stopped for 2 nights to see the Shenandoah National Park on our way to NC. Called last minute and got a site. Very nice customer service," noted a Walnut Hills visitor, while others mentioned difficulty securing cabins during peak fall foliage season.
Site selection tips: Research specific cabin locations before booking. "Our site 33 was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck. Not all sites have full hookup," shared a Walnut Hills camper who had researched cabin amenities in advance.
