Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Susanne S.
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

In the forest near great hike to waterfall

We towed a boat ( not used here - we drove across country) and had plenty of room for a tent too so you can pull a trailer if you like. The pull in area was paved and behind it was a nice flat tent area. Our truck has a converted area in the back with a shell on top and carpeting inside converting to a bed so we slept there ( nice to get away from insects). Our dog was along and slept in his kennel. A mile or 2 away was a store selling a variety of camping supplies. It also had a small cafe so you could order food and drinks. The firewood they sold was too wet to use so I dont suggest buying it. The campground itself was quiet and peaceful and located in a deciduous forest. A deer kept running through the camp area and there were many birds. Each site came with a metal standard table and bench style seating as well as a fire pit with a metal ring. The bathrooms were well equipped and worked fine although the light was broken at the womens so you need a flashlight at night. There are no showers at this campground. The water is fully drinkable at the bathroom/fountains etc. There is a beautiful trail leading to the largest waterfall in the park called Overall runs trail. It is 5.1miles round trip (out and back trail). Its considered moderately steep meaning challenging for an unconditioned person and the trail has a steady incline. The overall elevation gain is 1291 ft. Wear hiking or exercise shoes but there is no bouldering or pull yourself up areas. In case of rain it can likely be slippery so be careful. You will probably encounter a small stream of water near the trail and in rain season possibly cross an area that could be wet. We went in the summer so it was dried out. We saw some people come back in bathing suits although the spring stream isnt very deep but maybe with more exploration there could be deeper areas. Its really beautiful among deciduous trees and stunning greenery and the waterfall view gives you a view of the valley as well. If you want a shorter hike, you can circle the camp ground in traces trail hike. Its considered an easy 1.7 mile with very little if any elevation change. These both trails do connect with other trails if you want to hike further. For camping - there are bears here so you need to bear proof any food or item that smells. Keep it in your car. We saw multiple bears in the park. There are also a lot of mosquitos as well as no seems and biting flies. We used insectshield clothing but deet or similar are options if you dont want to get bit. The store sold a netting you can use over your head. Even the dog preferred to restraining his head to getting his ears bit like crazy. It's a good place to explore Shenandoah national park from. Its nice your leashed dog is welcome almost everywhere ( not inside buildings etc and not on all trails).

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