Fort Valley Ranch provides excellent equestrian camping opportunities near Woodstock, Virginia with 45 campsites that welcome tent campers, RVs, and cabin lodgers. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, campsites sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, offering moderate summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. The region features distinctive limestone geology that creates natural springs and clear waterways throughout the valley floor.
What to do
Hiking at Big Meadows: Access numerous trails directly from Big Meadows Campground within Shenandoah National Park, about 45 minutes from Woodstock. "Very busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground. Visitor Center, gas station, food walking distance from campground," notes Kim L.
Fishing opportunities: Both stocked and natural fishing options exist throughout the region. At The Cove Campground, "the lake was very nice and would be the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day," according to Andy S. The campground also offers "great trails for both riding and hiking."
Shooting range access: Some campgrounds provide additional recreational options beyond typical outdoor activities. "The Cove is by far one of my favorite places to escape the DC suburbs. With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," writes Victoriana P.
What campers like
Abundant wildlife viewing: Campers consistently mention wildlife encounters as highlights. 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 Rachel M.
Natural swimming areas: The region offers several natural water features for swimming during hot months. Fred F. reports that at Trout Pond Recreation Area, "Swimming is excellent with sand beach. Big catfish in clear water. Water was so clean that it was throbbing with freshwater jellyfish."
Farm experiences: Some camping options include agricultural components. At Graves Mountain Farm Campground, visitors appreciate the rural setting. Lucinda B. mentions it's a "Great site to camp. Dog friendly. Bathrooms available. Lodge close by if food, warmth, or better restroom desired."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have minimal connectivity. When staying at Trout Pond Recreation Area, Chris J. advises: "At the end of the season last year, they were installing a pay phone, which is helpful because there is no cell service. In case of an emergency, you are a 20 minute drive to call for help."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Bathroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. While some offer clean facilities, others require flexibility. At Graves Mountain Farm Campground, Matt notes: "campground bathrooms and port-a-jons in poor condition" and suggests bringing your own water if possible.
Weather considerations: The mountain terrain creates unpredictable weather patterns. Kelly G. experienced this at Yokum's Vacationland: "I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising. Later I learned this area is prone to flooding."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Introduce children to local fauna safely. At Big Meadows, Carol B. reports: "Elevation above 3000 feet and plenty of deer! It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water."
Family-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with kid-specific features. Graves Mountain Farm Lodge offers activities beyond standard camping. Matt explains: "For kids, there is a duck pond, chicken coop, shallow brook, disable farm tractor, and some other stuff to play with/on/in across the street near the lodge."
Insect preparation: Depending on season and location, insects can impact your stay. Anna R. shares about Big Meadows: "We were there during a heat wave so there were bugs but being from Georgia the heat was bearable. Speaking of bears- there were lots of sightings and they take food clean up seriously."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Despite mountain terrain, most campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles. Jason G. notes about Fort Valley Ranch: "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."
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require minimal leveling equipment. At Fort Valley Ranch, Jason G. found that "All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed."
Water management strategies: When navigating mountain roads with heavier rigs, Chris J. advises: "There are some pretty steep inclines to even get to the campgrounds. Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground."
