Waynesboro, Virginia sits at 1,300 feet elevation near the intersection of Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway, making it a strategic base camp for Shenandoah area exploration. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Mountain terrain creates microclimates where temperatures and conditions can vary significantly between valley campgrounds and higher elevation sites.
What to do
Fishing options: The Tye River runs directly through Crabtree Falls Campground, offering easy wading access for campers. "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," reports one camper. Many sites have direct river access.
Hiking trails: Endless Caverns offers onsite hiking trails including a 15-minute trail to an observation point. "The 15-minute hike up to the Endless Caverns sign offers a lovely view of the valley and an acre+ field of wildflowers they have sewn. Picnic tables are provided up there," notes a visitor in June 2022.
Historical attractions: Glen Maury Park provides easy access to nearby historical sites. "Close to Lexington. Would stay again!" mentions one long-term visitor. The park serves as a convenient base for exploring Civil War museums and historic towns within 30 minutes' drive.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Stoney Creek Resort features tent sites along the water, providing natural sound barriers between campers. "Sites are right on the river, we had a walk to which gave us some extra privacy," reports one reviewer, highlighting the campground's natural setting.
Swimming options: Shenandoah Valley Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "Great campground with lots to do with the family. My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt," mentions a camper, describing the diverse recreational facilities available for families.
Clean facilities: Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park maintains exceptionally clean facilities according to multiple reviews. "The campground was busy and everything was clean and neat," notes one visitor. Another states, "The bath houses were pristine," indicating consistent maintenance even during peak occupancy periods.
What you should know
Terrain considerations: Many Waynesboro area campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. At Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages, "Roads are gravel and can be a bit steep, 4-wheel drive is helpful," one reviewer cautions, noting the mountainous terrain affects campground layout.
Wildlife encounters: Deer, bears, and smaller mammals inhabit forest campgrounds around Waynesboro. "Trail cams are showing an increase in wildlife this past month (May 2023) Black Bear, Deer, Coyotes, Bobcats, & Turkeys," reports Staver Farm management, indicating campers should practice proper food storage.
Booking timing: Popular campgrounds fill months in advance during fall foliage season (mid-October through early November). Summer weekends typically reach full capacity by early spring, especially at water-oriented facilities like swimming lakes and river sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-rich properties: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers numerous structured activities for children. "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground," reports one family, noting the organized evening events.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or visiting during cooler seasons, Crabtree Falls Campground provides cabin rentals with basic amenities. "My husband and I recently stayed overnight with our two dogs," mentions one visitor who appreciated the mix of developed facilities while maintaining a natural setting.
Research playground facilities: Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley features multiple playgrounds for different age groups. "There's also a huge playground with volleyball and basket ball court near the pavilion. Along with a small arcade room and a huge fire pit ring to hang out at," describes a seasonal camper, highlighting the variety of recreational spaces.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord logistics: Bring extra electrical cords for certain RV campgrounds. At Walnut Hills, "I parked a little goofy it seems so I needed a little extra footage for my electrical hookup. They were kind enough to loan us a 25' extension," reports one RVer, noting that hookup placement can sometimes require additional equipment.
Site selection importance: At Shenandoah Valley Campground, "Spaces were small but big enough for all our equipment," explains one RVer with a family. Another notes, "The campsites are very close to each other and the roads are very narrow. We can't even extend our awning due to through traffic," highlighting the importance of researching site dimensions before booking.
Off-season considerations: Multiple RV campgrounds near Waynesboro remain open year-round with varying service levels. "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," reports one late-season visitor, suggesting early or late season campers should verify which amenities remain operational.
