Cabin camping near Woodstock, Virginia provides year-round access to the Shenandoah Valley region, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,400 feet throughout the area. The valley experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F and winter lows dropping to 20-30°F. Most cabin sites in the area maintain accessible roads even in winter months, though some higher elevation locations may have limited access during snow events.
What to do
River activities: 3-8 mile float trips are available at Low Water Bridge Campground, where campers can access the Shenandoah River directly. "A nice chill float would be from the campground to Shenandoah River State Park (around three miles). The amount of time of float is dependent on how high the river is," notes one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk walks offer the best opportunities for deer sightings at Big Meadows Campground. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows - and for the star watching at night," shares a regular visitor.
Hiking trail access: Multiple difficulty levels are available directly from campsites. "One of my favorite campgrounds - particularly when I bring first time campers. Clean grounds and importantly clean facilities. Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners," explains a camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park.
Horseback riding: Trail rides for all ages can be arranged at Fort Valley Ranch, making it ideal for families seeking cabin accommodations with added activities. The stables are centrally located near the campground amenities for easy access.
What campers like
Convenient river access: Walk-in sites at Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback offer direct water access. "The campground is a short walk through the woods to the river if the need to cool off in the hot summer months arises. I highly recommend buying wood from the camp store, cheapest around and a great size bundle," writes a repeat visitor.
Spacious cabin layouts: Private settings with room for families and groups. "The sites are large enough and level enough. The power pole is well positioned. Laundry room, bathrooms, and shower are well maintained and clean," reports a camper at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Scenic views: Mountain panoramas from many cabin porches. "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," shares a visitor to Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views.
Family-oriented activities: Structured programs for children during peak seasons. "Beautiful views, tons of hiking & biking trails. Wild life is visible everywhere you go. The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," notes a family who stayed at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30) and shared the campground with a mix of tent campers, car/van campers, and a few larger units. The bathrooms were plentiful, heated, hot running water, and a utility sink available. It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F," reports a winter camper at Big Meadows.
Site selection: Request specific sites based on needs. "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed," notes a camper at Fort Valley Ranch.
Facility hours: Bathhouses may close seasonally at some locations. "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," explains a late-season visitor.
Cell service: Limited connectivity in many valley locations. "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," warns a Low Water Bridge Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Choose sites near calm river sections. "This campground is nice and the primitive spots are right next to the river. The spots are a short walk from the parking area and the campground provides wagons to transport your stuff. Great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," recommends a parent who stayed at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
Entertainment options: Plan for weather flexibility with indoor and outdoor activities. "We love this campground, we like the pull in and the walk in sites, bear boxes provided, plenty of room to relax. Good bathrooms, coin hot showers available too. So many trails to explore, walk to the Lodge, Wayside, Visitor Center and more," advises a family at Big Meadows Campground.
Wildlife education: Attend ranger programs during summer months. "Campground is meticulously clean with daily restroom cleaning and trash pick up. Very small campground store on site but a much larger store at visitor center. Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," notes a visitor to Big Meadows.
Swimming alternatives: Campground pools provide relief on hot days. "They have a clean pool and playground for little kids. The nearby dairy cow farm is fun too. You can tell the new owners are making some upgrades including improving the utilities and adding wi-fi," reports a family staying at KOA Luray RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Check road conditions before booking cabins at remote locations. "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us. The access was smooth and hassle-free," notes an RVer who stayed at Fort Valley Ranch.
Utility connections: Verify availability of hookups when booking. "Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers," reports a camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly if staying at cabins without full hookups. "Electricity is on the RV site, there is a dumping place for black/grey water. Friendly staff, near the river, close to Shenandoah NP, quiet camping, every site has a fire pit," notes a visitor at Low Water Bridge Campground.
Off-season availability: Confirm services before booking. "We stayed here on the night of December 11, 2020. No problem finding a spot, campground was about half full when we got there around 4pm. Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter," shares a winter visitor to Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park.
