Camping options near West Augusta, Virginia range from stream-side tent sites to full-service RV parks with mountain views. The region sits at the edge of the Allegheny Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,800 feet, creating distinct microclimates. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day but can drop into the 50s at night even during peak season.
What to do
Hiking Chimney Rock trail: Located just minutes from Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, this trail offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. "Location is prime!! Loved the RV sites right on the water. Perfect if you are a trout fisherman or hiker. Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away."
Explore cavern systems: The region features multiple underground cave networks, including Endless Caverns. "The cavern tour (discounted for guests at the RV park) was lovely. Marked well, lighted, relaxed. Our tour guide, Haley, was a sweetheart, taking time for the two little kids, and still giving the information older people like."
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area feature stocked ponds or river access. At Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park, campers can enjoy fishing right on site. "Really cool set up clean campground. The people are nice and the so are the views. The fishing ponds are great, bring a fishing pole!"
Mountain biking: The surrounding mountains provide challenging terrain for cyclists of all skill levels. Multiple trailheads are accessible within 15-30 minutes of most campgrounds in the area, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly fire roads to technical singletrack.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campsites are positioned along streams, rivers, or lakes. "My kids loved all the bunnies, the river, pool and putt-putt. The one problem is the camper section is very tight, whereas the tent sites look more roomy," noted a visitor to Shenandoah Valley Campground.
Night sky viewing: The region offers minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," reports one camper about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, highlighting the excellent astronomy opportunities.
Secluded camping spots: Some campgrounds offer more private sites for those seeking solitude. At Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages, "Most sites are spaced enough to give some feeling of privacy, some are fairly close together. A few sites are nicely secluded for those of us that crave privacy."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. "There is a very nice playground and a pet exercise area. You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything," notes a visitor to Walnut Hills, while another camper at Shenandoah Valley Campground mentioned, "Wild but tame bunnies are everywhere."
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Many campgrounds close during winter months. According to a camper at Seneca Shadows, the campground operates from "April 2 to October 25," making advance planning essential for off-season visits.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the area. A visitor at Stoney Creek Resort noted, "No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!" Similarly, at Shenandoah Valley Campground, "No wifi, no cable and cell service is limited - definitely not good for Verizon."
Terrain considerations: Many campgrounds feature sloped or uneven terrain. "The campground is on the side of a mountain so it is very steep in some sections. (One entire loop says 4 wheel drive recommend, so read carefully before booking!)" warns a visitor to Endless Caverns.
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer and fall. "During the week, the campground slows down a bit, but on the weekends, it is completely full," notes a camper at Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Children have plenty of places to burn energy. At Glen Maury Park, "There is a playground that is very nice! They offer entertainment on weekends and some other times of the year."
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "There are many activities such as a bluegrass festival, fiddle festival, and jazz festival. This year they built large models of the twin towers and had a program about them on September 11th."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools or natural swimming areas. 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."
Biking opportunities: Paved campground roads provide safe cycling areas. "There are a lot of kiddos riding bicycles, hover boards, scooters, and skateboards around the loops, so the 5 MPH speed limit is important," notes a visitor to Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. At Glen Maury Park, a camper noted that "The spots are very close to each other, there is a bath house available, camp sits on water front."
Full hookup availability: Options vary widely between campgrounds. "Great campsites available at a very reasonable price. Beautiful views at the upper campground. Full hookup only on upper campground. Lower campground only has water and sewage."
RV sizing considerations: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs. At Smoke Hole Caverns, "There are a number of campgrounds in the Smoke Hole Canyon/Seneca Rocks area, but most of them are better suited to smaller rigs and tent campers. If you have a class A or are looking for something with full hookups, look no further."
Dump station access: Check availability and condition of facilities. "Since our site had no sewer hook up, we needed to dump before leaving. It's conveniently located on the way out, BUT was completely overflowed. Toilet paper everywhere, and oh the stench."
