Shenandoah National Park Camping Guide

Shenandoah Campgrounds: Complete Guide

Northern Shenandoah Campgrounds

Central Shenandoah Campgrounds

Southern Shenandoah Campgrounds

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location & Sites	Cost & Reservations
Mathews Arm	North District (MP 22) 165 sites	$30/night Rec.gov (some FCFS)
Big Meadows	Central (MP 51) 221 sites (incl. tent loop)	$30/night Rec.gov only
Lewis Mountain	Central (MP 57) 30 sites	$30/night First-come only
Loft Mountain	South District (MP 79) 207 sites	$30/night Rec.gov (some FCFS)
Dundo (Group)	South (MP 83) 3 group sites	$75/night Rec.gov (groups)

Campground Amenities and Best Uses

Mathews Arm & North District: Mathews Arm offers a more rustic experience with no showers and fewer crowds. It's best for campers entering from Front Royal or those looking to hike to Overall Run Falls. The sites here are generally flat and spacious, suitable for tents and smaller RVs, and the surrounding woods give a sense of seclusion.

Big Meadows (Family-Friendly): Big Meadows Campground is the park's most popular, with full services nearby (visitor center, lodge, wayside with gas, etc.). It's ideal for families and first-timers -- you'll have access to flush toilets, showers, and even laundry. Its open meadow attracts deer and photographers, though the trade-off is that sites can feel less private and reservations are a must for peak times.

Lewis Mountain (Quiet Retreat): Lewis Mountain is favored by those who want peace and quiet. With far fewer sites and no generators allowed, it remains calm even in high season. Campers here enjoy a small campground feel and can often snag a spot without advance plans. It's great for couples or anyone seeking a low-key camping experience while still being a short drive from Big Meadows attractions.

Loft Mountain (Scenic Views): Loft Mountain's main draw is its panoramic vistas and proximity to South District trails. It's the top pick for sunset lovers -- the campground loops offer overlooks toward the Shenandoah Valley. Facilities are similar to Big Meadows (flush toilets, water, showers at the store). Expect more breeze and the occasional bear wandering by. Loft is perfect for hikers (with the AT crossing nearby) and can handle larger RVs, but book ahead for weekends.

Photo by Charlotte D

Planning Your Shenandoah Camping Trip

When to Visit

Spring (March--May):

Spring in Shenandoah brings cool temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls. By April, campground loops begin opening (Big Meadows often opens by late March in a limited capacity). Daytime highs range from the 50s to 70s°F, with chilly nights in the 30s--40s°F at elevation. Trails can be muddy from spring rains, but waterfalls like Dark Hollow Falls and Rose River Falls are at their most impressive. Early spring sees lighter crowds (except around Easter and spring break). This is a great time for wildlife sightings as animals become active -- expect to see deer, wild turkey, and possibly bears emerging. Bring warm layers for nights and a rain jacket for sudden showers.

Summer (June--August):

Summer is peak season, with all facilities and campgrounds fully open. Temperatures on Skyline Drive average 70--85°F during the day and a comfortable 55--65°F at night -- usually about 10 degrees cooler than the Shenandoah Valley below. July and August are humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common (bring rain gear and make sure your tent has a good rainfly). Campgrounds are typically full on weekends; reservations are essential for Big Meadows and recommended elsewhere. All trails are accessible, and the mountaintop meadows are green and lush. This is prime time for ranger programs at campgrounds and stargazing on clear nights. Insect repellent is a must in summer due to mosquitoes and gnats, especially in lower hollows.

Fall (September--October):

Fall is arguably Shenandoah's most famous season. Days remain pleasant (60s--70s°F) and nights turn crisp (40s°F or lower by late October). Starting late September and peaking in mid-October, the foliage transforms into brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows -- a magnet for visitors. Campgrounds stay busy through late October, especially on weekends around peak leaf color (expect crowds and book well in advance for early to mid-October weekends). Trails like Stony Man and Little Stony Man offer incredible fall vistas. The air is drier and clearer, making for long-range views. Be prepared for cold nights (upper 30s°F) by October's end and pack extra blankets. Note that campgrounds begin closing for the season in late October -- timing your trip before closures is key if you want to camp among the fall colors.

Winter (November--February):

Winter is the off-season -- all front-country campgrounds close by late November (Big Meadows and Lewis Mountain typically close by the end of Thanksgiving weekend). Skyline Drive itself often has sections closed due to snow and ice, sometimes for extended periods. That said, Shenandoah dispersed camping is permitted year-round with a free permit. Winter camping means backpacking or hiking in from park boundaries when the Drive is closed. Expect cold conditions: highs in the 30s--40s°F, lows in the teens or twenties, and occasional snowfall creating a tranquil snowscape. Only very experienced campers with proper winter gear should attempt backcountry camping in these months. For most, winter is a time to enjoy Shenandoah's quiet trails as day hikes and plan the next campsite stay when the park reopens in spring.

Shenandoah Reservation Systems Explained

All Shenandoah National Park campgrounds use the Recreation.gov system for advance reservations. The reservation window operates on a rolling 6-month basis -- for example, if you plan to camp on July 4, the booking window opens on January 4 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. Popular dates (summer holidays, October weekends) can literally fill within minutes of opening, so it's wise to be online right when reservations become available. Big Meadows Campground is entirely reservation-based for individual sites, meaning you must book it ahead of time (same-day drive-ins aren't allowed there). Mathews Arm and Loft Mountain campgrounds have a hybrid system: a portion of sites are available to reserve and the rest are kept for first-come, first-served arrivals each day. To snag a first-come site, plan to arrive by mid-morning on the day of your stay -- especially in summer or fall, when these walk-up sites often fill by early afternoon. Lewis Mountain is first-come only; you'll self-register upon arrival (the campground rarely fills except during peak foliage season). Group campsites (at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain) and the now-closed Dundo Group Campground all require advance reservation due to limited capacity. In summary, reserve in advance whenever possible, and if you're aiming for a walk-up site, have a backup plan in case the campgrounds are full.

Campground Costs and Budgeting

Campground Type	Nightly Cost	Key Features
Standard Campgrounds	$30	Mathews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, Loft Mountain - basic amenities, flush toilets
Group Campgrounds	$75	Dundo Group sites - primitive facilities, groups 7-20 people

Camping in Shenandoah remains one of the more budget-friendly ways to explore the park. Standard campsite fees are $30 per night across all campgrounds -- this covers up to 6 people (or one immediate family) and 2 vehicles (typically 1 camper/RV plus 1 car) at a site. Group campsites are $75 per night and usually accommodate 15--20 people, which can be cost-effective for larger gatherings. There are no additional utility fees since there are no electric/water hookups at any park campground. Keep in mind the separate park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) or $55 for an annual Shenandoah pass. If you plan to visit multiple national parks in a year, the $80 America the Beautiful Pass covers entry fees nationwide, including Shenandoah.

Additional Fees and Budget Tips

Beyond the basic campsite and entry fees, Shenandoah has a few other costs to anticipate. If you're planning to fish within the park, you'll need a Virginia state fishing license, which can be purchased online or at nearby outfitters (prices vary, around $30 for an annual resident license). Backcountry camping remains free but requires obtaining a permit -- there's no fee for the permit itself, but you might invest in a good map or guide. Shower tokens or quarters for the pay showers at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain are another minor expense; $1--$2 in quarters usually grants a few minutes of hot water. Ice and basic groceries are sold at camp stores (expect a small premium for the convenience of buying on the mountain). To stretch your budget, consider packing the bulk of your food and supplies with you -- the nearest supermarkets are in Luray, Waynesboro, or Front Royal, which are a 30--60 minute drive from most campgrounds.

Essential Gear for Shenandoah Camping

Shenandoah's environment -- cool mountain nights, potential rain, and abundant wildlife -- means you should pack thoughtfully. Here are some key gear considerations:

Shelter and Sleeping:

• Tent with full rainfly and ground tarp -- Summer storms can be intense, so a waterproof tent and a tarp/footprint underneath will keep you dry.
• Three-season sleeping bag (rated ~10--20°F) -- Nights can dip into the 40s°F even in midsummer; a slightly warmer bag ensures comfort.
• Sleeping pad or air mattress for insulation -- The ground can be cold and damp; an insulated pad keeps you warmer and more comfortable.
• Extra blankets or liner -- Useful in spring/fall or if someone in your group sleeps cold. Layers can add warmth on unexpectedly chilly nights.
• Bug net or head net (optional) -- In buggy months, a mosquito net for around camp or over your hammock can be a savior during dawn and dusk.

Kitchen and Food Storage:

• Bear-resistant food storage container or dry box -- While each site has a metal bear locker or you can store food in your car, having an odor-proof container for extra caution (especially at backcountry sites) is wise.
• Camp stove and fuel -- Firewood is for campfires, not guaranteed for cooking. A propane or white gas stove allows quick meals, particularly when it's raining and firewood is wet.
• Cooler with ice -- Bring a cooler for perishables, noting that ice is sold at camp stores. Keep the cooler in your vehicle or bear box whenever you're not using it.

Photo by Gary G

Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations

Black Bear Safety in Shenandoah

Shenandoah National Park is home to a thriving population of American black bears -- seeing one (from a safe distance) can be a highlight of your trip. Bears here are generally shy, but they are very curious and motivated by food, so campers must take precautions to keep bears wild and people safe. The park requires all visitors to follow strict food storage rules in camp. Black bears can smell even a faint scent, and a bear that gets a food reward from a campsite may become a problem bear. Remember that a fed bear is a dead bear -- once they become food-conditioned, they often have to be relocated or euthanized. Fortunately, by being responsible (as outlined below), it's easy to coexist with Shenandoah's bears. Also note that bear spray is allowed in the park but typically not necessary; most black bears will run when they see you. Your best defense is proper storage and making noise if you encounter one.

Food Storage Requirements:

• Use the bear-proof lockers or your vehicle at all times. Every campground in Shenandoah now provides metal food storage boxes at each site (a recent improvement as of 2025). Place all food, coolers (even empty), trash, cooking gear, and scented items (toothpaste, soap) inside the locker or in a locked car whenever you're not actively using them.
• Never leave food unattended. If you're stepping away from your site -- even to go to the restroom or for a short walk -- secure your food first. Ravens and raccoons will also steal food if left out, which can attract larger wildlife.
• Clean up thoroughly after meals. Wipe down picnic tables, throw food scraps in trash bins (never on the ground or in the fire ring), and wash dishes immediately. Spilled grease or crumbs can entice bears overnight.

Bear Encounter Guidelines:

• Keep your distance. If you see a bear, give it at least 50 yards of space (more if possible). Use binoculars or a zoom lens for a closer look. Do not approach for a photo. Most bear encounters in Shenandoah are road-side or trail-side sightings; the bear will usually move off if it notices you.
• Make noise if a bear is too close. Clap your hands, shout firmly, or bang pots together to let the bear know you're human and present. Black bears almost always flee when they realize people are around. Do not scream or run -- you want to appear large and in charge, not prey-like.

Park Regulations and Etiquette

Regulation Category	Rules to Know	Penalties
Campfires	Fires only in provided fire rings or grills Use only dead & down wood or buy local firewood Never leave fires unattended; fully extinguish with water	Fines up to $100 Liability for damages if fire escapes
Quiet Hours	10:00 PM -- 6:00 AM in all campgrounds Generator use allowed only 8--10 AM and 4--7 PM (not at Lewis Mountain) Keep noise to a minimum at all times near other campsites	Verbal warning for first offense Repeat violations may result in eviction
Pets	Allowed in campgrounds & on most trails if leashed (max 6 ft) Not permitted on a few trails (e.g., Old Rag, Bearfence) -- check park pet policy Owners must clean up waste and never leave pets unattended	$75 fine per violation (e.g., off-leash) Possible removal from campground
Food Storage	All food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from wildlife Use bear lockers or locked vehicles at all times No food or coolers in tents	$50--$100 fine per incident Resource violation report (may affect future reservations)

Additional Park Regulations

Camping Limits: There is a 14-night limit on camping in Shenandoah during any one stay, and a 30-night total cap per year per visitor. During the busy season (May through October), you can stay up to 14 consecutive nights in the park, after which you must vacate for at least 5 nights before returning. Additionally, at Big Meadows Campground, there is a limit of 2 consecutive weekends in a row that one party can book during peak season, reflecting the extremely high demand in fall.

Resource Protection: Shenandoah is a National Park and also largely federally designated wilderness, so its resources are protected. Do not collect or disturb plants, animals, rocks, or cultural artifacts. Cutting live vegetation or standing trees (even if dead) for firewood is prohibited -- only use dead wood on the ground or bring certified firewood. Do not feed wildlife under any circumstances; this includes squirrels, deer, and birds (it is illegal and harmful to them).

Photo by Elliott B

Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration

Day Trips from Shenandoah Campgrounds

From Mathews Arm (North District):

Staying at Mathews Arm puts you close to Shenandoah's quieter northern trails. A must-do excursion is the hike to Overall Run Falls, which actually begins right at the campground registration area -- it's about 5.1 miles round trip to see the park's highest waterfall (93 feet) and offers lovely valley vistas along the way. A short drive (2 miles) north brings you to Elkwallow Wayside, where you can grab snacks or a meal and check out a small gift shop; there's also a picnic area and trail access to the Appalachian Trail. If you don't mind a scenic drive north to Front Royal (about 30 minutes), you could spend half a day kayaking or tubing on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River -- several outfitters in Front Royal rent gear and run shuttles. On your way back, stop at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6) to enjoy exhibits on park history and an easy nature trail with views.

From Big Meadows (Central District):

Big Meadows Campground sits near many of Shenandoah's marquee attractions. You can start your day with a walk to Dark Hollow Falls (trailhead at mile 50.7, just 1 mile from camp) -- it's a steep 1.4-mile round trip to a beautiful 70-foot cascade, best hiked early to avoid crowds. Afterward, pop into the Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51) adjacent to the campground to learn about the park's creation and maybe catch a ranger program. In the afternoon, consider a short drive (5 minutes south) to Skyland (mile 41.7) where you can embark on the Stony Man Trail (a 1.6-mile round trip with panoramic views at 4,010 feet, the park's second highest peak). Back at Big Meadows, the expansive meadow itself begs to be explored -- stroll the gentle trails through this high-elevation wetland in the early evening.

From Loft Mountain (South District):

Loft Mountain campers are spoiled for choice in Shenandoah's South District. A not-to-miss adventure is the Doyles River Falls trail, which, combined with Jones Run Falls, forms a popular 6.7-mile loop (trailhead at mile 81.1, just 2 miles north of the campground). This hike features two gorgeous waterfalls (28' upper falls and 63' lower falls) and lush stream scenery -- start early to have the swimming holes to yourself on hot days. Near the campground itself, you have the Frazier Discovery Trail, a 1.3-mile loop beginning within Loft Mountain Campground that leads to an outstanding vista point and winds through rhododendron-filled forests -- perfect for a short morning or sunset hike.

Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds

Trail Name	Difficulty & Distance	Key Features
Overall Run Falls	Moderate 5.1 miles RT	93-ft highest waterfall in Shenandoah, trail starts at Mathews Arm, spring wildflowers, overlook into Shenandoah Valley
Dark Hollow Falls	Moderate (short but steep) 1.4 miles RT	Popular cascading waterfall near Big Meadows (70-ft falls), mossy forest setting, best early in day to avoid crowds
Bearfence Mountain	Moderate (rock scramble) 1.1 miles RT	360° panoramic views at summit, fun hands-on rock scramble, great for sunrise/sunset, trailhead near Lewis Mountain
Doyles River Falls	Moderate 3.4 miles RT (to upper falls)	Two picturesque waterfalls (28' and 63'), can combine with Jones Run Falls for longer loop, shaded creekside trail, trailhead near Loft Mtn
Stony Man Summit	Easy 1.6 miles RT	Second-highest peak (4,010 ft), sweeping views of valley and peaks, gentle grade trail, access from Skyland area (short drive from Big Meadows)

Trail Access and Starting Points

From Mathews Arm Campground: The trail to Overall Run Falls can be accessed directly from the Mathews Arm area. In fact, a spur trail from the campground connects to the Tuscarora/Overall Run Trail. Plan about 4--5 hours for the out-and-back hike; start at the Mathews Arm registration parking, where you'll find the trailhead kiosk. This convenient access means you can roll out of your tent and be at a waterfall viewpoint after a morning's hike.

From Big Meadows Campground: One of the park's most famous hikes, Dark Hollow Falls, starts just a mile north of Big Meadows at milepost 50.7 -- a 3-minute drive or a pleasant stroll from the campground through the meadow and woods. Park at the signed lot; the trail is well-marked and you'll descend to the falls in about 0.7 mile. Another trail, the Lewis Falls Loop, actually begins near the Big Meadows amphitheater inside the campground -- this 3.3-mile circuit takes you to a 81-foot waterfall and back up past the lodge.

Water Activities in Shenandoah

While Shenandoah is a mountain park without large lakes, there are still ways to enjoy water recreation in and around the park. Fishing is a popular activity -- the park protects many miles of streams that hold native brook trout (the only trout native to Virginia) as well as some introduced rainbow and brown trout in lower elevations. Anglers need a valid Virginia fishing license (and must follow state regulations for catch limits and seasons). Within the park, only single-point hooks are allowed (no treble hooks) and live bait is generally prohibited to protect aquatic life -- most fishing is catch-and-release, especially for brook trout. Some favorite spots include the Rose River, Hughes River, and Moormans River.

For boating and swimming, Shenandoah National Park proper has limited options -- there are no swim beaches or public lakes in the park. However, just outside the park, the Shenandoah River offers fantastic paddling and floating opportunities. On hot summer days, many campers head to Shenandoah River State Park (near Bentonville, not far from Front Royal) or private outfitters to rent tubes, canoes, or kayaks. If you're determined to take a dip in the park, you can wade in some of the larger pools below waterfalls (for example, the lower falls of Whiteoak Canyon or Cedar Run have swimming hole areas). These are not officially designated swimming spots -- there are no lifeguards and rocks can be slippery -- so exercise caution.

The Dyrt Community Insights

Ranger Recommendations

The Dyrt Rangers who know Shenandoah have shared a few insider tips to enhance your stay:

Big Meadows Campground --- Best Sites:

"Try to reserve or arrive early for sites on the outer loops (like D loop or E loop) near the meadow." Rangers note that these outer perimeter sites back up to woods or the meadow itself, offering more privacy and better wildlife viewing. In particular, sites at the edge of Big Meadows often have deer grazing within view at dawn and dusk. Additionally, the tent-only loop (T section) tends to be quieter without generator noise, making it a good choice for tent campers seeking a more peaceful experience.

Hidden Gem Campground:

"Lewis Mountain Campground doesn't get enough love," one The Dyrt Ranger says. Many travelers drive past it, aiming for the bigger campgrounds, but Lewis Mountain's charm is in its tranquility. It has only 30 sites and no nearby busy lodges, so evenings are serenely quiet. Rangers mention that it's often the last to fill up on busy weekends -- a gem for those who decide to camp last-minute.

Free Camping Favorite:

If the park campgrounds are full or you're looking for a zero-cost option, Rangers and veteran campers recommend dispersed camping in the George Washington National Forest on Shenandoah's western flank. One popular area is around dispersed sites near Lincoln -- here you can camp with mountain views for free. "It's rare to have free campsites with such great mountain scenery so close to a national park," a Ranger notes. Do keep in mind these spots have no facilities (pack all your water and gear) and require following Leave No Trace rigorously.

Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community

Category	Top Pick & Rating	Key Highlights
Best In-Park Campground	Big Meadows Campground 4.8/5 stars	Central location, modern facilities (showers, store), wildlife sightings, access to popular trails
Best Scenic Views	Loft Mountain Campground 4.6/5 stars	Stunning overlook vistas, breezy mountaintop setting, trail access to AT and waterfalls
Quietest Atmosphere	Lewis Mountain Campground 4.5/5 stars	Small and peaceful, less traffic, ideal for relaxation, first-come availability
Top Nearby Alternative	Shenandoah River State Park Campground 4.7/5 stars	Spacious sites with water/electric hookups, riverside tent camping, year-round availability, family-friendly amenities

Community Insights and Recommendations

Praise for Campground Convenience: The Dyrt users often highlight Big Meadows for its convenience -- campers love being able to walk to trails, the visitor center, and even grab hot food at the wayside. "It was so central to everything, we barely used the car for three days," says one reviewer. On the flip side, they note Big Meadows' popularity means it's more active and can feel busy; light sleepers might prefer loops away from the main road or opt for Lewis Mountain.

Loft Mountain Love: Reviews frequently mention Loft Mountain's incredible sunsets and views. Many suggest driving the campground loop road in the evening to catch the best valley outlooks. Campers also appreciate the spacing of sites at Loft, commenting that "even though it's a large campground, the foliage and layout made it feel like we had our own corner of the mountain."

Wildlife Encounters: Shenandoah campers rave about wildlife sightings -- black bears, deer, and even bobcats. One camper at Mathews Arm shared, "We saw a mama bear and two cubs cross the road near the campground at dusk -- absolutely magical, from a safe distance." The community emphasizes following the park rules (proper food storage) to keep these encounters safe.

Photo by Shari G

Responsible Camping Practices

Wildlife Protection:

• Store all food and scented items securely (use bear lockers or locked cars) and never leave them unattended. This protects wildlife from becoming food-conditioned.
• Observe animals from a distance -- use the "rule of thumb": if you hold your thumb out at arm's length, it should cover the entire animal. If it doesn't, you're too close.
• Never feed wildlife, intentionally or accidentally. A begging deer or bold squirrel may seem harmless, but feeding them is illegal and harmful. Ensure trash is secured so critters can't get an easy meal.
• Drive slowly on Skyline Drive, especially at dawn and dusk. Countless animals (bears, deer, turkeys) cross the road; responsible driving can prevent accidents and wildlife injuries.

Leave No Trace:

• Plan ahead and prepare: Know the park rules, weather forecast, and terrain for your hikes. This helps you avoid emergencies and minimizes impact (like having to shortcut trails).
• Travel on durable surfaces: Stick to established trails at all times. Cutting switchbacks or creating new paths causes erosion and damages fragile plants.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out everything you packed in. This includes food scraps, fruit peels, and hygiene products. Use campground dumpsters for trash. If nature calls on the trail, dig a cathole 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, then cover it.
• Leave what you find: Rocks, flowers, antlers, historic artifacts -- leave them all as you find them for others to discover. Even dead wood is an important habitat, so don't remove it (use only downed wood on the ground for campfires).
• Be considerate of other visitors: Keep noise levels down, yield to uphill hikers on trails, and avoid bright lights or loud music in camp at night so everyone can enjoy the natural peace.

Water Conservation:

• Water is a precious resource on the mountaintop. Use refillable water bottles and fill jugs at spigots rather than bringing flats of disposable bottles.
• Take short showers if using the campground facilities -- a quick rinse is all you need after a day of hiking. Turn off the water while lathering up.
• When washing dishes at camp, do it away from streams or spigots (at least 200 feet). Use a small basin and minimal biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater on soil rather than dumping it all in one spot or into waterways.

Campfire Responsibility:

• Check for any fire bans or restrictions, especially in late summer or fall when leaves are dry. Obey all posted fire rules -- sometimes campfires are prohibited if conditions are risky.
• Use only the established fire ring or grill at your site. Keep fires small -- a small flame for roasting marshmallows is safer and sufficient for ambiance.
• Never leave a fire unattended, even for a few minutes. Shenandoah's forests can ignite easily if a breeze carries a spark.
• When you're done, drown the fire with water. Pour until hissing stops, then stir the ashes and coals with a stick and drown again. The fire should be completely cold to the touch before you go to bed or leave the site.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Shenandoah's campgrounds open and close for the season? All four front-country campgrounds open in spring and close by fall. In 2025, Big Meadows and Lewis Mountain were slated to open in late March, while Mathews Arm and Loft Mountain opened in late April (both higher elevation and opened around April 30). Closure dates generally fall in late October or early November -- for example, Big Meadows often stays open through the end of October or first weekend of November, weather permitting, whereas Mathews Arm and Loft Mountain usually close by the last week of October. Always check the park's official "Operating Hours & Seasons" page for specific dates each year, as they can vary with weather and funding.

Can I get a campsite without a reservation -- what are my chances as a walk-up? It is possible to nab a first-come, first-served campsite, especially on weekdays or if you arrive early. Mathews Arm and Loft Mountain campgrounds both set aside a number of sites for walk-ins daily. Your best chance is to arrive in the morning on the day you want to camp: try to be there around 8-10 AM, as departing campers leave and sites become available. Lewis Mountain is entirely first-come and typically doesn't fill up except during holiday weekends and peak foliage season in October -- mid-week, it's often half empty, so that's a great option for spontaneous trips. Big Meadows, however, does not offer any walk-up sites for individual camping -- it's reservation only, so drop-in visitors cannot camp there unless a reserved site happens to be canceled last-minute.

Do the campgrounds have hookups for RVs? No -- Shenandoah's park campgrounds do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups at any site. All campgrounds are strictly dry camping. RVs are welcome (within length limits, generally up to 30-35 feet at most campgrounds and up to 40 feet at a few sites in Big Meadows and Loft Mountain), but you'll need to be self-contained. There are potable water spigots and flush toilets available, and dump stations at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain where you can empty holding tanks and refill water as needed. If you absolutely require hookups, you'll have to look outside the park at private RV parks in the valley (for example, there's a KOA in Harrisonburg and several options near Waynesboro).

Are there showers and flush toilets at the campgrounds? Flush toilets and drinking water are available at every Shenandoah campground (yes, even the smaller Mathews Arm and Lewis Mountain have modern restrooms with flush toilets). As for showers, two campgrounds have them: Big Meadows and Loft Mountain each feature coin-operated (or token-operated) hot showers at their camp stores or adjacent shower houses. These are available to any park camper (you could even drive from Mathews Arm to Big Meadows to shower if you really wanted to, but that's a 30-mile trip). The cost is a few dollars for several minutes of hot water -- bring quarters or be ready to purchase tokens from the camp store cashier.

How careful do I really need to be with food storage -- will I likely see bears in the campgrounds? You need to be very diligent with food storage in Shenandoah, as black bears frequently roam through campgrounds (especially at night) looking for easy meals. It's quite likely you'll hear of a bear being spotted near the trash bins or passing along the campground perimeter after dark, even if you don't see one yourself. The park's rule is that any time you're not actively cooking or eating, all food, coolers (even if empty), trash, and scented items must be secured in the provided bear locker or in a closed vehicle. Rangers do enforce these rules -- you might get a warning if they see a cooler left out, or a ticket in repeat or egregious cases.

Are pets allowed in Shenandoah campgrounds and on trails? Yes, pets are allowed in all campgrounds and on most of Shenandoah's trails, but there are important rules and a few exceptions. In campgrounds, dogs should be leashed at all times (leash no longer than 6 feet). You cannot leave pets unattended -- for example, don't leave your dog tied at the campsite while you go hiking or inside a hot tent/RV. Throughout the park, nearly all trails permit leashed dogs, which is quite generous compared to some national parks. Notable trail exceptions where pets are not allowed include: Old Rag (a very popular but strenuous rock scramble trail), Bearfence Mountain's rock scramble section, and a few others like Timber Hollow.

Planning Resources

Essential Shenandoah Links

• The Dyrt's Top Shenandoah National Park Camping Spots -- Reviews and availability for campgrounds in and around Shenandoah National Park
• Additional Shenandoah Valley Campgrounds Guide -- Additional camping spots and scenic areas in the Shenandoah and surrounding region
• Shenandoah National Park Official Website -- Current park alerts, campground opening/closing dates, and general trip planning info.
• Recreation.gov -- Shenandoah NP Camping -- Reservation portal for all reservable park campgrounds and backcountry permits.
• Skyline Drive Status -- Up-to-date road closure information for Skyline Drive (especially useful in winter or inclement weather).

Reservation Timeline

Time Period	Reservation Task	Details
6 Months Before Trip	Reserve park campsites as soon as window opens	Recreation.gov opens sites on rolling basis (e.g., book July dates in January) Mark calendar for 10 AM ET on opening day for popular weekends
2--3 Months Before	Book nearby private campgrounds or state park sites if needed	Reserve at Shenandoah River State Park or private RV parks for extra amenities Good backup if park campgrounds fill up
1 Month Before	Check for cancellations or adjust plans	Monitor Recreation.gov for any newly open sites Plan hikes and activities; secure any guided tour bookings (e.g., Luray Caverns tickets)
1--2 Weeks Before	Finalize gear and check conditions	Ensure you have all camping gear, rainfly, etc. Check NPS Alerts for any campground closures or fire restrictions
Day Before Arrival	Review weather and Skyline Drive status	Download offline maps (cell service is spotty in park) Call or check online for last-minute road closures or advisories

Shenandoah Camping Checklist

Reservations and Permits:

• Campground reservation confirmation (printed or saved on phone) if you booked ahead
• Park entrance pass (7-day pass or annual pass) -- or receipt if pre-paid online
• Backcountry camping permit (if planning overnight hikes, obtainable at visitor centers or self-serve stations)
• Virginia fishing license (if you intend to fish in park streams)

Camping Gear:

• Tent (with full rainfly, stakes, and ground tarp)
• Sleeping bags (appropriate for ~10--20°F colder than forecast low temps)
• Sleeping pads or air mattresses for everyone
• Extra blankets or camp quilts (especially for spring/fall trips)
• Headlamps or flashlights for each person (with spare batteries)
• Lantern or string lights for lighting the site
• Multi-tool or knife and basic repair kit

Kitchen Items:

• Cooler with ice or ice packs (and a plan to replenish ice, available at camp stores)
• Camp stove and fuel canisters/propane (plus lighter or matches in waterproof container)
• Cookware: pot, pan, kettle (as needed for your meal plan)
• Food storage: Zip-top bags or sealed containers to keep food organized and leak-proof inside the bear locker
• Biodegradable soap, sponge, and wash basin for dishes
• Trash bags (use these to line the bear locker or trash cans and pack out garbage easily)

Clothing:

• Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
• Warm mid-layers (fleece jacket, down or synthetic puffy)
• Waterproof rain jacket or poncho and rain pants
• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes (broken-in to prevent blisters)
• Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
• Sun hat or baseball cap; knit cap for chilly mornings/evenings

Safety and First Aid:

• First aid kit (include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers for splinters/ticks, any personal medications)
• Insect repellent (tick and mosquito protection is important)
• Sunscreen (the higher elevations still get strong sun, even on cooler days)
• Map of the park (the free one from the entrance or a detailed hiking map)
• Water filter or treatment tablets (if you plan any backcountry hikes or in case of emergency water needs)

By planning thoroughly and following park guidelines, your Shenandoah camping experience can be both enjoyable and responsible. The park's varied campgrounds offer experiences ranging from the bustling energy of Big Meadows to the quiet solitude of Lewis Mountain. Whether you're watching sunrise from Loft Mountain or hiking to Overall Run Falls from Mathews Arm, camping in Shenandoah connects you to one of the East Coast's most spectacular mountain landscapes.