If you want to explore the beauty of Winchester, glamping is an excellent option. Glamping is not only a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but also allows you to pack more or less gear as you see fit. You're sure to find glamping for your Virginia camping excursion.
The park, including all of the overnight facilities, is open year-round. Lodging options include standard tent-only sites, electric-water camping, three yurts, four camping cabins (bunkhouses), regular cabins and a lodge.
$30 - $40 / night
The Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA is a fantastic vacation destination spot that's perfect for the whole family. Thanks to you, this year we received the 2016 KOA PRESIDENT'S AWARD. That means our campground facilities and camper satisfaction scores are some of the best around. We are making things even better in 2017! Our Specialty Coffee and Wine Store, GRAPES & GRINDS, has been a popular place for morning specialty coffees and afternoon wine tastings. Check our deluxe cabins with bathrooms and some with kitchens too! As always, our jumping pillow and giant inflatable are a hit with the kids.
And, as always, we still have all of the fun stuff you've come to love about our campground, like our junior Olympic Swimming Pool, Indoor and Outdoor Basketball Courts, Volleyball, Horseshoes, Game Room, Bark Zone Dog Park, and all-you-can-eat pancakes in season. So make your plans now to come and make some history all your own. See you soon!
$40 - $80 / night
Secluded in the thick trees and rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park, the Big Meadows Campground is the ideal spot for an outdoor family getaway.
Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Big Meadows is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the park. Three waterfalls are within walking distance, and the Meadow, with its abundant plant growth and wildlife, is an ideal nearby attraction.Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals thriving in the park.The campground is also located right off the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are visible from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.
Shenandoah National Park spans 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. The scenery at Big Meadows Campground never disappoints, with a stunning array of colors in the fall and a blanket of bright wildflowers in the spring. This green and shady campground is a wilderness paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
For facility specific information, please call (540) 999-3231.
Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). Byrd Visitor Center is a short one mile walk by either trail or sidewalk if you choose not to drive. There are concession managed restaurants, gift shops and lodging facilities scattered throughout the park. Big Meadows Lodge and Restaurant is a 5 minute walk from the campground and Big Meadows Wayside is located beside Byrd Visitor Center.
Changing Reservations: There is no change fee if a visitor extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. Additionally, there is no change fee if the visitor wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a visitor wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Once a reservation date has begun, visitors cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. Onsite staff will assist with changes or cancellations. Cancellations: Visitors may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's approved rate including tax and applicable add-on. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Visitors who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days prior to arrival date will pay a $10 service fee AND forfeit the first nights rate. No-Shows: A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Early Departures: Visitors are requested to notify staff at the facility if they depart early to allow others to use the site. If the visitor chooses to depart early, they may forfeit the approved rate and applicable tax and applicable add-on for the day of departure. If a visitor departs prior to the scheduled check-out date, they may be eligible for a partial refund. Visitors may notify the Recreation.gov call center to request a refund of remaining unused nights. If a visitor requests a refund for an early departure after the facility check-out time (10 am) has passed, the visitor will not be refunded for that night and is eligible for a refund on any additional nights that will not be used. Refunds: Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Visitors may also initiate a refund request through the call center at any time after their reservation has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.
$30 - $75 / night
The Cove is a privately owned, certified tree farm. The Cove covers about three thousand acres ranging from one to three thousand feet in altitude in the Appalachian Mountains and a part of The Cove has been developed to provide outdoor recreation for the general public. It is the desire of the present owners to share the charm, solitude, and beauty of The Cove with those who love the outdoors.
Campsites and cabins are available on a beautiful deep water section of the Potomac River near Harpers Ferry in Jefferson County. A four mile section of deep water runs from our campground to above the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Maryland. Pontoon boats, fishing boats, water skiing, wake boarding, and jet skis are welcome. Pitch your tent and tie your boat up out front. Bring your RV as well. There are electricity and water hookups for RV sites. For those willing to rough-it, it is a beautiful unique location. We also offer beautiful, River Front Cabins that offer heat and AC, as well as their own full bathrooms.
Rocky Gap State Park is located in Western Maryland’s Allegany County. The park encompasses over 3,000 acres of public land for visitors to enjoy. Rugged mountains surround the park. The 243-acre Lake Habeeb is known for having the "bluest water in the state." The lake is fed by Rocky Gap Run, which winds its way through an impressive mile-long gorge, displaying sheer cliffs, overlooks and a hemlock forest dense with rhododendron and mountain laurel. Overlooking the lake is Evitts Mountain, named for one of the first European settlers in Allegany County.
Rocky Gap Campground offers 278 individual campsites (including 30 equipped with 30 amp electric hook-ups, mini cabin and yurt Options), a family group site and two youth group camping areas. The campground also features a dump station, bathhouses with hot water in each loop, the Scales & Tales Aviary, canoe/kayak/SUP board rentals (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day), a nature center, a private swimming beach, a playground, trail access, Snack Shack and a camp store. Pets are allowed in Camp Loops Ash, Birch, Chestnut, Dogwood and Elm (Sites 1- 143). Alcohol is only permitted inside personal motor homes. Check-in for campsites is 3 p.m. and check-out is 1 p.m.
The family group site offers space for up to 40 people to camp together. The group site includes a two-story mini cabin with electric, as well as six 30 amp electric hookups and a group fire ring. Bathhouses are located in the adjacent camp loops.
The two youth group areas are for use by valid youth groups only. Please see http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/youthgroup.aspx for more information.
RockyGap_Yurt.pngMini Cabins and Yurts There are 15 mini cabins located throughout the campground. They sleep either four or six people. The yurt accommodates 8 people and has an adjoining camp pad to increase the total site capacity to 15 people. Each has electricity (no water) and beds. Users must provide their own linens. Air conditioning and heat are not available. Check-in for mini cabins and the yurt is 3 p.m. and check-out is 12 p.m.
Easter Hill Chalet Exterior of the Easter Hill ChaletThe Easter Hill Chalet accommodates up to eight people. A completely furnished kitchen, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, wrap-around deck, gas fireplaces, outdoor campfire area and grill make this an enjoyable vacation spot. Chalet guests must provide their own linens, towels, bedding, pillows and soaps. The chalet is located in a forested, private area of the park, overlooking the lake. The Chalet requires a 2-night minimum stay. Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend require a 3-night holiday stay (Friday/Saturday/Sunday). Check-in is 3 p.m. and check-out is 10 a.m. The address for the Chalet is 13300 Pleasant Valley Road, Flintstone MD 21530. Reservations are available April-December. Make reservations online at https://parkreservations.maryland.gov or call the reservation center at 1-888-432-2267. TTY users call 1-866-804-7846.
$23 - $29 / night
Located amongst the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort in Luray, Virginia, offers a breathtaking camping experience that the whole family will enjoy. Our 73 rolling acres are situated close to the popular Luray Caverns and scenic Shenandoah National Park. When our campers aren’t busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear’s Water Zone & Splashpad or zooming down our 400’ waterslide, they can enjoy the on-site mini golf, gem mining experience, arcade, pedal boats, fishing pond, two jumping pillows, daytime and nighttime Lazer Tag in the woods, outdoor sports, and playgrounds. All of our cabins and campsites take full advantage of the unparalleled setting and beautiful scenery that surrounds our park..
Bull Run Campground, located near Interstate 66, is a getaway that is not far from Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia attractions. Bull Run Park is only 27 miles from Washington, D.C. and 15 miles from the Vienna Metro Center Station. We are convenient for visitors to the Dulles area , Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum and Manassas National Battlefield Park. The variety of campsites available at Bull Run Campground are RV sites with electric only service, Electric RV sites with water, RV sites with full-service (which includes sewer, water and electric), tent sites, rustic cabins and group camping areas. There are two bathhouses in the campground that offer hot showers, sinks, toilets and laundry facilities. The camp store sells camping supplies, snacks, ice and firewood and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
$30 - $95 / night
Close to the Luray Caverns, Shenandoah Valley National Park, the Shenandoah River, with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The hills seem to roll on forever from the vantage point of this wonderfully rural yet convenient campground, nested atop a high hill above the Shenandoah Valley. Cruise along the famed Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, just a few miles away, or explore the park's countless hiking trails. Nearby outfitters rent canoes & tubes for floating the Shenandoah River. This campground is close to Luray Caverns and offers easy access to several Civil War sites, including New Market Battlefield State Historical Park & Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The campground's spacious grounds include shady sites, a pool & a ball field. Pool is open from Memorial Day through the weekend after Labor Day.
We are proud to announce our partnership with Black Folks Camp Too and are now the first “unity blaze certified” collection of private campgrounds!
Being Unity Blaze Certified confirms that all 15 of our campgrounds and our team are committed to making sure all campers know “You are Invited and Welcomed” — the Unity Blaze motto. While Spacious Skies has always firmly held this belief, we wanted to go one step further in partnering with BFCT to make sure all campground staff completed the Unity Blaze training program.
Please navigate to our website for up to date information regarding our amenities.
$24 - $232 / night
Scout
We are located on the Shenandoah River! Our waterfront unique kamp offers yurts and tent sites along with a well maintained bathhouse! Of course I feel we are 5 stars! Come visit us for the perfect Glamping experience — open year round!
Ranger
This is a glamping site! coin operated showers, camp store open during the day. This is a much bigger campsite than the others in shenandoah and you should reserve spots a week or more in advance. This site generally has more RVs and people than the others.
Ranger
had to stay here for a climbing trip in the offseason when other sites in the park were closed. definitely glamping with people all around. seems like a fun time for a family.
they have a pool, pillow trampoline, playground, basketball court..
drinking water, showers and flush toilets are available if you're tent camping. there are also cabins and rv spots available.
Guide
We stayed in the Bear Branch Loop of the William Houch Camping Area. This is a lovely area if you're a beginner camper or just looking for the glamping experience. The sites are small and not very private but are well defined. It's very clear where to park, set up the tent etc. The park itself is very scenic with nice hiking trails and a lake to enjoy. I was there in the fall so didn't go out on the water but can imagine it would be popular during the warmer months.
TravelerThis campground is very very popular and the sites are very close together so it’s a bit overwhelming. Definitely avoid major holidays if you camp to get away from it all. But it’s perfect if you like glamping. You’ll never be at a loss for things to do: hiking, birding, Ranger-led programs, blueberry picking in July, and a Junior Ranger patch program for kids. The wayside has a sit down full service restaurant plus the most heavenly homemade blackberry ice cream. Hot showers are available ($1.50 for 5 minutes so bring quarters) and bathrooms are always close by.
I have to give Big Meadows 4 stars simply because it’s so crowded and busy.
Legend
This campground is huge, and very crowded. We were there in the days leading up to 4th of July, and there was not a single empty site. Our section had mostly pop-ups and mid-size travel trailers, so the sites were all grass and gravel. However, the area with pull-through sites for big rigs was just a huge RV parking lot. All roads were very narrow and winding. We did fine with the pup, but can’t imagine trying to navigate a large motorhome through there. Crowding/space issues aside, this is a really nice (albeit expensive) campground. Almost everything, from the grounds, to rec halls, to pool and laundry, was sparkling clean and beautifully maintained. Bathrooms were reasonably clean as well, although they could certainly use some TLC and updating (most MD state park bathhouses are nicer).Staff was very friendly, as well. Tons of stuff to do here, especially for families: arts & crafts, indoor movie theatre, games, civil war reenactments, wine tastings, etc. We were certainly never bored, and the kids thought they had died and gone to heaven. Our site was extremely close to our neighbor's site, but still surprisingly roomy and decently shaded. We were right next to the pancake hut (free daily pancake breakfast included during the on-season) and playground, and very close to other activities. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is just a stone's throw away, with great hiking, sight-seeing, and cute little shops.
Overall, this is a really nice place, but much more of a resort than a campground in my opinion. The kids loved it, but I’ll always prefer the wooded seclusion of a state or national park. However, if I was looking for a more action-packed, activities-filled “glamping” experience, I wouldn’t hesitate to return.
Guide
We just visited the park this week. Wow what a beautiful state park. Very well up kept, clean and amazingly friendly rangers. We rented a Yurt number 2. In my opinion it has the best location of the 3 Turks they have. It’s it the woods close to a boat landing you can see a bit of the river. In the fall or spring I’m sure the view is amazing. The yurt was clean and simple. Surrounded by a amazing deck with 4 rocking chairs and a picnic table on it. Down below you have a fire pit, a grill and an additional picnic table. Yurt 1 is right next door if you have a larger group that would be perfect. The one we stayed in sleeps 4 comfortably. The park has a huge network of hiking and bike paths all very well maintained. The river water is so clear you can see the bottom. The only only down side is you can not drive your car up to the yurt. But they offer little carts to load your things in and pull. Yurt 2 is the farthest away from the parking area, but well worth it.
Legend
This campground surprised me. It states online that it’s only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites. Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! In the valley and surrounded by beautiful mountain views it was 80 daytime and ~60 at night. We were in site 12 which was small for our RV (22 ft total pulled by our F-150) but we worked it out. Site 14 is a buddy electric site. There are a few other buddy sites with no hookups. Site 11 and 13 both look nice and a bit more length to them and have electric (15 amp). We found that sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU (not sure what amp electric though). While 3, 5, 7, and 9 are designated Host spots, site 3 had the sign covered and an RV using it. Not sure how you do that but good to know. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. There are 3 not so great bath houses and the only reason I didn’t give 5 stars. Only 1 sink, 2 stalls, and 1 shower in each and a stall in 2 of them was out of order. I used the shower and it was nice hot water. There is Rockcliff lake and small beach area, an overlook (Lina Constable Overlook) to hike to right off the camp loop but it’s 1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step. Gorgeous! There were other trails too. We also hiked the Rockcliff lake trail which was rocky at spots but pretty level. There’s a boat launch for non powered boats, and fishing spots along the lake. The lake water was crystal clear and is surrounded by beautiful views of the mountains. We didn’t swim but on a Saturday in August about 4pm, it wasn’t too crowded. You aren’t close to much else outside of outdoor activities but we drove into Lost City and Lost River. There’s a great arts cooperative we stopped at with unique artistic wares to purchase and a small museum. We stopped at a farmers market, and a general store that both offered pastries, and coffee drinks as well as area goods for purchase. There is a Dollar General near these places too. The drive to the campground (Thorny Bottom Rd. CR 16) was a bit windy but doable. Better to go to Wardensville, WV and down 16 rather than try to cross the mountain near East of Trout Pond. Camp Hosts were present and helpful! Highly recommend this campground if you are a tent camper, smaller RV, or if you just prefer less of a glamping experience.
Traveler
Little Bennett has spacious RV and tent sites as well as cabins and yurts. It's very clean and well maintained. Lots of hiking within the park and many activities for kids. We were very impressed by their covid safety. Will be back!
ScoutWe have stayed at this campground many times! It is our favorite! The scenery is fantastic and at the foot of Shenandoah National Park. The sites are large and there is both sun and shade. Upper bathroom is so-so but there is a new one on the lower level that’s great. There are yurts to rent also!
LegendBeautiful park with over 1,600 acres and 5.6 miles of river frontage. Lots of areas to access the river throughout, several picnic shelters, riverside picnic area, canoe launch with a good amount of parking, group campground, visitor center/store, bathhouses with hot showers, and cool trails (24 miles, hiking/biking/horses). Tent + RV sites (with water/electric options), cabins, and yurts available. There is nowhere to dump your trash here so you’ll have to pack it out.
Legend
This is a nice and large campground by Maryland State Park Standards. Sites are nice and not stacked right on top of one another. Some sites have electric, but the bathhouses are clean and decently well kept. The real draw here is the very large lake stocked with fish, and the casino. Botha are just a short walk from the campground. It is incredibly convenient from I68 but you do t get any highway noise. There are even yurts to rent.
Guide
Usually go camping with a Little Guy teardrop trailer, but with the current state of the country, didn’t feel comfortable with sharing bathroom facilities. We booked Yurt #1. It was fantastic. The place was spotless, well equipped kitchenette, grill, fire pit, comfortable beds. We loved our neighbors the sheep, goats and llamas. Checking in was easy, with the keys and map at the office. Park was clean and well maintained. Dog park is great. Wonderful way to start coming out of quarantine. Great hiking nearby.
TravelerWe’ve come to this campground twice: Once just our family of four and another time with my in-laws. This park is nice and secluded with a number of family friendly hikes. Facilities are clean with plenty of wood to buy and carts to help transport supplies from the parking lot to the camp sites. We recommend renting the yurts which were perfect for our in laws. They were just a few steps away from our camp site in a more comfortable setting. We foresee coming to this park many times over the coming years. It’s the quintessential car camping experience.
LegendWhen I was traveling though this section of Virginia I stumbled upon this KOA, and I must say it is very different than any KOA I have visited. Typically amenities are nice and the places are well maintained in KOA standard, but this one had something which set it apart from others, its remote country feel and setting.
From camp you had magnificent views of rolling green hills and mountains in the distance. The feel of the campground was that of a country cottage and the friendly owners echoed the same hometown feel. This did not feel like a chain, it didn't feel like a private owner who had some land and used it as an after thought to generate some money, instead it felt like someone was welcoming you to stay with them at a B&B of sorts designed for RV Campers. I know that sounds weird, but unlike a lot of campgrounds the vibe f this one is just a little different.
There were 2 pools (open seasonally), a very well maintained bath house, a dog park area, ping pong, a play area, even a yurt for something a bit different and all with amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The tent area is divided into two sections with their own private parking. The amazing green grass of this area, even late into summer made for soft padded sites and made me feel comfortable enough that I didn't feel the need to wear shoes, something which I always feel like I need to do at a campsite. That feeling in itself set this campground apart, it just felt so homey and clean and well maintained enough that I could literally kick my shoes off and enjoy.
I opted for a non-electric site which was $34, basically because I liked the soft padded grass, the electric hook up deluxe sites are $39 and have a gravel pad, but since I could get that anywhere I wanted the feel of being closer to the actual ground. The other difference between the two sites were the covers which rest over the gravel sites which you can add an additional tarp to for shade. Otherwise sites are equally put together with picnic tables and fire rings.
When I visited it was on a weekday and while there were some people staying on the RV side I had the tent area to myself, it was quiet at night in my little corner of camp and I could walk out a bit from my site and see the entire night sky which was amazing!
The experience of staying at this camp was very pleasant and I would recommend it again, the only reason it didn't have 5 stars was the price itself was a bit higher than other accommodations in the area. I feel like this was fair considering the accommodations, however to someone passing by this could also be something which could be a deterrent from stay here.
TIPS:
LegendShenandoah River State Park is located right on the Shenandoah River in northern Virginia. It is just a short drive from the northern section of Shenandoah River National Park and includes lots of hiking trails, a few canoe launches, gorgeous views, and nature center, and lots of different camping options. The park encompasses more than 1600 acres and includes 5.2 miles of pristine shoreline.
Campground Review
I stopped at Shenandoah River State Park on a two-week road trip from Vermont to Alabama. I had been traveling for a few days when I stopped here, and I did not make reservations in advance for a Thursday night in May. I arrived at about 3 pm and popped into the visitor center to ask about my options for camping for the night. Turns out that campers have a lot of choices here.
Camping options include huge RV sites with water and electricity hook-ups, small camping cabins, yurts, and large cottages with separate bedrooms, bathrooms, full kitchens, and air conditioning, which I guess isn’t really camping at all. The last option, and the one I chose, is “primitive” camping, which are large, private tent sites along the river. The only thing primitive about them is that they have no vehicle access. You park your car in a lot nearby and truck your stuff out to your campsite.
These primitive sites have access to a large bathhouse with private showers, as well as grungy pit toilets that are a bit closer to many of the sites. The campsites have a fire pit, lantern pole, and picnic table, and some have room for several tents. A few of the sites are right on the Shenandoah River, with incredible views. My site, #3 had a river view but was set back a bit from the banks. All of the sites are wooded and quiet.
There are carts available at the parking area for lugging your stuff out to your site, and there is also a small shed with firewood that you can purchase for $6 a bundle. The rangers come through every so often and are incredibly friendly and knowledgable about the area. I learned that there are copperheads within the park, as well as huge bees that look menacing but are pretty harmless. Bears also frequent the park, so it is very important to pack away your food in your car or your bear-proof cooler. Don’t have a bear-proof cooler? Check out the RovR Rollr 60 below.
This was a clean, quiet campground, with beautiful hiking trails and great river access. The cost for a primitive campsite was $36, which I thought was a bit pricey. It is cheaper for Virginia residents.
It may get really busy on summer weekends, but I only saw a handful of people during my visit. There is a privately run ziplining course within the park, and a local outfitter does paddling trips that begin up-river and include class I and II rapids. All-in-all, I give Shenandoah River State Park 4 stars for their primitive campsites, and I can’t wait to come back to stay in a yurt.
RovR RollR 60 Review:
As a ranger for The Dyrt, I am occasionally given products to test and review on my camping adventures. During this trip, I was thrilled to test out the RovR Rollr 60 cooler. The Rovr was recently ranked #1 for ice retention by Outside Magazine, so I was excited to use it for a mega road trip where I knew I wouldn’t be able to restock it with ice every day. Plus, I was carting large quantities of Vermont beer to my family in Alabama, and warm beer is really lame.
The RovR Rollr is a “rotomolded cooler,” which basically means that it has a consistent wall thickness and two full inches of foam insulation to keep the insides frosty for a lot longer than traditional coolers. They are also made with heavier, more durable plastics that ensure that they last longer than other types of coolers.
The downside to the RovR Rollr, and all high-end rotomolded coolers, is that they are quite a bit heavier than their competitors. Fortunately, the RovR Rollr line includes incredibly rugged tires that make it easy to maneuver just about anywhere. I did have trouble lifting it in and out of my car and dragging it up a full flight of stairs, but because of the tires and the sturdy handle, my issues were minimal.
RovR Rollr 60 Features:
This cooler is really big and holds 60 quarts of food, beverages, and ice. It is a workhorse, and can definitely keep enough food and drink cold for a long weekend or more. The RovR Rollr includes a removable plastic bin that secures snuggly into the cooler to keep your food dry, but still nice and cold. You fill this bin with your eggs, meats, and veggies, and then pour the ice into the cooler on top of your beverages. This system is so great — no more fishing for Hershey bars when your cooler turns into a lake.
The RovR website mentions that the RovR Rollr will give you 10 days of ice retention if you follow some recommended steps, which includes prechilling everything, keeping the cooler full, and keeping it out of full sun. I could do none of these things, but keeping the cooler in the back of my car (in the sun), half full, and not prechilling anything, the ice lasted a good 4 days before needing to be replaced.
There is a handy valve to release excess water, and the dual-grip handle is made of aluminum for easy pushing and pulling. The latches are made of sturdy rubber and the lid is fitted with an airtight gasket, making it entirely bearproof. The cooler comes with a 5-year warranty, and many of the parts can be removed and replaced if necessary.
The RovR Rollr comes with a removable, foldable wagon bin that secures firmly to the top of the cooler for easy transport. I kept dry goods in here that didn’t need to be cold - fruit, cereal, trail mix, peanut butter, etc.
Optional Add-Ons
For this particular adventure, I just got the cooler and the wagon bin that fits on top, but there are a bunch of optional features that would make the RovR even more versatile. These include an attachable cutting board, drink holders, an umbrella holder, and a bike kit for pulling the cooler behind your bike.
Bottom Line
The RovR Rollr 60 is obviously a high-end cooler with a high-end price tag, but the quality is obvious from the very first use. This is an investment for sure, but totally worth it. My biggest complaint is that it is heavy and a bit unwieldy for one person to maneuver. And to be fair, this is a big cooler that is not meant to be used by one person. I was impressed with the rugged tires, the overall design, and its ability to keep stuff cold and dry and would love to invest in a smaller model for smaller adventures.
Guide
Lots of trees to protect from hot Virginia sun
Woke up to sounds from gun range.
GuideVirginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers.
GuideVirginia has some of the best state parks, including water and electric at sites. This park has some good hiking and river access. No play ground for kids, but plenty of other outdoors.
Also in the time of crowding, I always find a couple sites open here..
Legend
Harper's Ferry is a little town in WV nestled right next to the Potomac River. It's also a convenient halfwayish point on the Appalachian Trail. One of my friends and I stayed here while we were section hiking the AT. The campground is pretty nice, with cabins, tent sites, and RV sites. It's also got a lot of extra activities that you can do. Zip lining, tubing, rafting the Potomac, and even an adventure park, you name it. You definitely won't be bored wile staying at this campground.
Harper's Ferry is a pretty neat place too. There are some great restaurants, cool shops, and make sure to make a stop at the AT Conservatory. There you can see cool pictures of all the people who have through hiked the AT and learn more about it.
Speaking of the AT, there are great hiking and biking trails right around Harper's Ferry. You can even say you hiked all the way to Virginia from West Virginia. Just don't tell anyone that Harper's Ferry is right on the border.
GuideGreat views of the blue ridge mountains with many river access points. The Virginia Canopy Tour is fun. We camped with our pop-up in the RV section. Sites were spacious and the bathhouse clean. We checked out an adventure pack from the visitors center and hiked the River Trail, thus our son became a junior ranger. Tent sites, RV sites, camping cabins and large cabins all available. Firewood for sale in the park. We’ll be back! More trails to hike!
RangerThe hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don’t let this deter you from completing it. The trail is well maintained, marked, and exciting. It is filled with tons of history and when you walk across the bridge from the town be looking out for all the locks on the bridge that have been left behind by other avid hikers
RangerThis campground is very convenient to many historic and recreational sites. Some of the sites are very shaded, but like most KOAs the sites are pretty close together. The campground has a nice big pool and lots of activities for the kids.
The area has river float and whitewater rapids trips on both the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. We were able to walk or ride our bikes to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and access the C+O Canal Tow Path from there. Antietam Battlefield is not far from the park and just across the Virginia border were a ton of vineyards.
ScoutWe have lived in northern Virginia for over 30 years and never been to this campground until this month! Very nice campground with friendly staff and friendly campground hosts. Sites are comfortably sized and provide privacy as well as allow socializing. Restrooms are extremely clean and the showers are well designed. Only real drawback is the shooting range but honestly it’s not that loud and becomes background noise you don’t notice pretty quickly. The weekend activities were a nice surprise, especially the pancake breakfast. We will definitely be back and anticipate that the campground will be our local go to for future trips.
GuideWe stayed at this KOA on our way to Virginia Beach but wanted to a day in Shenandoah National Park. We didn't do reservations because they wanted us to pay for the entire weekend when we just wanted to stay one night. But we took a chance and it paid off. This campground is tucked in the Shenandoah valley...mountains on both sides and nestled next to a farm. The sites are big and ours backedup to a big field - great for the kids to run. Nice and quiet campground and clean bathrooms. The pool was clean and refreshing - so thankful for that because it was in the upper 90s the day we were there. Great place to stay and wish we had longer.
Legend
I really love this campground. The river sites are worth the few extra bucks, but they book up fast. You have to call in your reservations - can’t book online. The campground itself is laid out nicely with several waterfront sites (some on the banks with no way to get into the river, others with acceptable river access). There are also overflow sites and those really aren’t bad (I’d avoid overflow #3 due to the proximity of portapotties). Most, if not all, sites have a fire ring and picnic table.
If I wasn’t camping on a weekend, I’d definitely choose site 15. The site is large, shaded, private, and has nice river access for putting in boats; however, because of the river access and the fact that it’s the northernmost stop before passing the campground from the river, there is a good chance you will have people hopping off at your campsite (consider that this might happen at any of the riverside sites that have even the slightest bit of river access). It seems like it could be pretty annoying, considering there’s a designated spot to put in and take out at the campground between sites 32 and 33.
This visit we stayed at site 42 which was waterfront but on a high bank, so we didn’t have river access - but that wasn’t an issue for us. There is a big tree blocking a bit of the river view, but still a beautiful site. My neighbors at site #43 had people getting off the river at their site constantly. They were visibly annoyed.
Site #40 is one that I would not recommend. It only rained for a couple of hours and the little creek flooded…. and this site is right on the creek. It seems like it stayed pretty wet the whole weekend, which during summer months can be miserable with the bugs and humidity. Also, it’s directly across the street from the portapotties.
Site 41 is nice and has a somewhat steep river access. It was roped off for social distancing the weekend we went, so we took advantage of the river access since no one would be camping at this site. The current can be strong, so be mindful of the river level.
There is a designated boat launch at the campground (really steep when you get to the river so I wouldn’t back a vehicle all the way to the river). 37a is river access as well. Sites 31 and 32 (despite being near the campground’s public river access) look large and private. Both riverside.
There is a designated footpath from the campground to the public boat launch next door. It’s fenced off, so despite how it looks, you aren’t walking through anyone’s campsite. That’s the best place to put in with tubes and kayaks/canoes because you aren’t trying to launch from a riverbank as you would at your campsite. It’s also significantly calmer water-wise. Lots of parking.
The campground sells ice, wood, and a handful of miscellaneous camp supplies in their office (fire starters, bug spray, sunscreen, graham crackers, candy…. the basics). There are portajohns throughout the campground and 6 private showers w/hot water, sinks, and toilets; these are located directly behind the camp store (same building). The bathhouses were all very clean when I went. The portapotty by our site got significantly worse throughout the weekend and by Sunday morning we stopped using it. The toilet paper ran out and the handwashing station ran out of soap and water which was disappointing, esp. due to the pandemic. Random note: the restrooms (by the office) do have electrical outlets if you need a quick cell phone charge.
Note: There is absolutely no Verizon service here (ATT seems to work pretty well). You’ll have to drive 10-15 in either direction on Rt. 211 before you can catch a signal.
The campground offers cabins, RV sites, and primitive tent camping. No yurts. Elec/water sites available. Trash goes in the back of a dump truck near the office/camp store. There’s a dump station for RVs and non-potable water. Slop sink near the restrooms by the office. Staff was amazing and super helpful. Police patrol at night to enforce quiet hours. Definitely coming back to stay at site 15, 31, 32, and plan to do another 7-8 mile paddle.
🛶🛶 Paddling/Floating the Shenandoah 🛶🛶
At the time we visited, there were no shuttles (nor rentals) for kayaking/canoeing/tubing, so we brought our own boats and floats. You obviously will need two cars or someone to drop you off before or pick you up after your float. A nice chill float would be from the campground to Shenandoah River State Park (around three miles - amount of time of float is dependent on how high the river is). There, you’d hop out at the park’s canoe launch where your 2nd vehicle is waiting in a nearby lot 👍🏻 *The only downfall to this is: you have to pay for park entry per vehicle at $10/car. *REI members can use a store receipt as a free day pass.
A longer (7-8 mile), less expensive float would entail driving about 7.5 miles north to Gooney Creek (take a left off 211) and parking your boat pick-up vehicle at the boat ramp (if no luck there, ask the folks at Gooney Greek Campground if you can pay to park for the day (it’s an 8 minute walk or so from the public boat ramp).
*We had some locals tell us of a boat ramp down a nearby windy dirt road (which would have put us south of the campground paddling north so you exit at the campground) but that particular boat ramp has NO PARKING so you’d need to be dropped off. It’s also very steep and incredibly dangerous after a heavy rain, as the ditches wash out and make it nearly impossible to pass other vehicles coming the opposite direction. We had a bit of a scare when one of our tires slipped off the road when trying to pass someone coming from the other direction.
Traveler
Regardless of what you’re into, the Cove Campground has just about everything to get in touch with your inner Tarzan. That being said, especially since COVID-19, prices have hiked quite a bit. They’ve running water, power, and firewood if you’re able to show up early and pay a little extra. The entire premises is clean, and the owner(s) are extremely polite and laid back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Winchester, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Winchester, VA is Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 56 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Winchester, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 36 glamping camping locations near Winchester, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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