Camping in Waynesboro, Virginia offers access to both Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to over 3,500 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F while dropping to 60-65°F at night, creating comfortable conditions for tent camping during peak season. Waynesboro's location near several rivers also provides opportunities for fishing and water activities not found at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: The AT runs directly through Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park, approximately 35 miles from Waynesboro. "Lots of hiking along skyline drive, and a few trails around the campground. When we woke up on the morning we were checking out, we didn't want to leave!" notes Annie B., who stayed at Loft Mountain.
Visit local breweries: Many campgrounds are located near the region's growing brewery scene. Devils Backbone Camp offers direct access to a brewery from your campsite. "Walk to the brewery from your site. Probably my favorite improved camp site for beer enthusiasts!" shares Brad W. The campground provides a "5 minute trail walk to the Devil's Backbone brewery. You can have several great beers with your meal and safely walk back to the camp site," according to Robert M.
Lake activities: Several campgrounds feature swimming lakes and fishing ponds. At Stoney Creek Resort, you'll find "a great swimming lake even has a beach in the mountains, clean bathrooms both wooded and open lots," as Jerry G. describes. The resort includes a large lake for both fishing and swimming in season.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Travelers frequently mention bathroom cleanliness as a key factor. At Sherando Lake Campground, "the shower houses are at the center of each loop and have been rebuilt to ACA standard with in the last five years," reports Linda C. The National Forest campground maintains high standards despite its rustic setting.
Water features: Creeks and rivers enhance many camping experiences in the area. At Crabtree Falls Campground, "the tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night," writes Britt S. This natural sound barrier helps create privacy between sites.
Variety of site types: Campgrounds offer everything from primitive tent sites to full hookups. Misty Mountain Camp Resort provides "great access, 30, 50, primitive, pull in, back in, cabin, pretty much full gamut," according to Robert H. This flexibility accommodates different camping styles and equipment needs.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited services in winter. While some remain open year-round, facilities may be reduced. Sherando Lake operates from April through October, while Loft Mountain is available "mid May to late October," according to their listing information.
Site privacy varies significantly: Spacing between sites differs dramatically between campgrounds and sometimes within the same property. At Misty Mountain Camp Resort, "the sites themselves are rather close, but nice and level. Hook ups were easily accessible, and worked well," notes Ryan D. Consider requesting specific sites if privacy is important.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. At Walnut Hills Campground, "Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure," mentions Laure D. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, campers report "no wifi, no cable and cell service is limited - definitely not good for Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused amenities: Many campgrounds feature extensive recreation options. At Shenandoah Valley Campground, Ryan Z. notes there are "lots to do with the family. My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt." These activities keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Some properties offer structured programming. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, "there's always tons of activities to do for everyone of age. Gold cart parades, crafts hours, poker run, corn hole tournaments," according to Evelyn T. Weekend programming tends to be more robust than weekday offerings.
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly often means higher activity levels. Christopher T. notes that Misty Mountain offers a "very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip!" However, this activity level may not appeal to everyone seeking quiet natural settings.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup placement: Pay attention to utility locations when booking. At Devils Backbone Camp, "some of the pads (#9 in our case) had a septic cap that was too high... Also, the power station was on the opposite side of the septic, so make sure you have a 30ft power cord at least!" warns Robert M. This setup quirk requires specific equipment or adjustments.
Campground layout considerations: RV sections often differ from tent areas. At Walnut Hills Campground, "Short-term sites are in the very front but you do have to take a circuitous route through the campground to get back to that area after checking in," notes Mary W. Understanding these layout details prevents frustration upon arrival.
Dumping station access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Waynesboro offer dump stations as alternatives to full hookup sites. However, maintenance varies. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, one camper reported that "the dump station was completely overflowed. Toilet paper everywhere," highlighting the importance of asking about current conditions.
Scout
