Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Katy S.
Reviewed Jul. 6, 2020

Huge campground, great trails

We stayed at a "group" site D167, which allows up to 15 people and 4 cars. While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people. First of all, it's located in the middle of a large patch of grass right next to other family campsites, so no privacy at all. If you travel with friends you might want to stay up a little longer and have a good laugh around the fire, but this site isn't really designed this way. The quiet hours are after 10PM and it's enforced. Second, the space is really limited, especially if your group members have larger tents. Also, there's no overflow parking, except at the entrance to the campground.

The showers are nice and clean, but they are coin operated.

The rangers are very strict. We had some food related items left on the table (salt/pepper shakers) and they were confiscated while we were hiking. I'm not saying it's wrong, but be aware, because these rules are not enforced at the same level in different places. We ended up with a $80 fine.

Also, since this is a national park, you cannot bring the firewood from outside, have to buy it in the park.

Other than that, we enjoyed our stay. The campground location allow an easy access to many trails within Shenandoah National Park, as well as close by, such as our favorite Old Rag Mountain. It's also technically a part of the NP, so keep your entrance receipt to show at the Old Rag's parking lot.

Make sure you taste blackberry ice cream at the general store at the entrance. It's a local specialty and it's delicious!!!

SiteD167, D Loop
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park by Katy S., July 6, 2020