Places To Camp In Shenandoah National Park

Bringing the right kit to protect against nature is important. The weather also needs to be planned for – one heavy downpour can quickly turn a happy camper into a soggy one. Depending on where you’re going to set up camp, your camping list is definitely going to look a little different. The kit you bring with you will also depend on what type of camper you are – one who likes a little more luxury, or somebody who keeps it streamlined. They call this place a “Hobbit House” – technically incorrect because we all know Hobbits live inside little grassy hills – but the vibe is definitely there. Offering space for up to four guests to sleep, this Shenandoah Airbnb offers up some real luxurious cabin feels.

If you’ve spent much time in National Parks you’ll know that pets are typically not permitted on any of the trails. Shenandoah is one of the few exceptions, and you are welcome to bring your pets along on your Shenandoah National Park camping trip. The Mathews Arm Campground is the most northern campground in Shenandoah National Park, just 22.1 miles from the Front Royal Entrance Station.

Shenandoah National Park Hiking

The Loft Mountain Campground is perennially a favorite among campers in Shenandoah National Park. Although one of the largest in the park many of the campsites feel very private and the views looking out over the Blue Ridge Mountains are truly spectacular! The site is located at mile marker 79.5, making it a great option for those coming from the southern entrance station at Rockfish Gap. Big Meadows has 222 individual campsites and 2 group sites, which can accommodate up to 15 people. Most of the campgrounds at Big Meadows require a reservation, although there are still several that are always available on a first-come, first served basis.

The next thing to work out is, what are you going to take with you on your camping trip to Shenandoah? The campsites in the area come in various shapes and sizes, so you’ll need to pack accordingly. Each camping spot comes with its own fire pit and picnic table, and there’s an ample supply of firewood to get those marshmallows a-toastin’. The staff here make sure you feel welcome, and the bathrooms are kept sparklingly clean. Adventure Outpost is a great place to camp in Shenandoah if you’re traveling with friends or a family.

The cabins are equipped with mattresses, blankets, and cookware, with a pit toilet and spring water nearby. The PATC website allows you to make online reservations for these cabins. Founder of the thedirtbag.org, Mary Beth ‘Mouse’ Skylis is an outdoor enthusiast with a penchant and passion for words.

Hobbit House In The Shenandoah Virginia Shire

With scenic views of the great Blue Ridge mountains, this place has all the essential amenities such as general stores, picnic areas, fire pit, flush toilets and more. Camping outside the national park boundaries is another option, with options near each of the four entrance gates. Listed below are some favorite campsites that will keep you close to the park for easy access. Nested along the Shenandoah River just outside of Luray, Papa Bear’s River Cabin offers a welcome escape for those seeking to get away and escape into the woods.

The campground is also an easy-breezy walk to a large picnic area, as well as full-service Big Meadows Lodge. Situated in the Central District of Shenandoah National Park at milepost 51.2, Big Meadows is open from late-March to early-November. This campground is just north of the Swift Run Gap entrance. However, the majority of sites are only available on a first-come, first-serve basis. As they say, the early bird gets the worm and that’s especially true at Shenandoah National Park.

Lists Including Shenandoah Riverfront Campsite

Alcoholic drinks are prohibited at this family campground. Properly storing your food is also essential as bears and other wildlife are common throughout the National Park. We recommend bringing a bear canister for any trip into the backcountry. Loft Mountain makes the perfect campground if you plan on visiting Doyles River Falls. Portable water container – Save yourself the countless trips to the water tap and bring one of these. Tick repellent– Ticks are common throughout Shenandoah, and while it is always a good idea to wear long pants, this tick repellent from Ben’s is worth applying when out hiking or camping.

Though not a regulation, it’s a good idea to choose a campsite that’s already been used (a fire circle and/or clearing is a good indication of this). This sprawling area of Virginia is home not just to forests and the Shenandoah River itself, but also to wineries. There are dozens of them, all encompassed within the Shenandoah Valley AVA . Freecampsites.net also has good information on Crisman Hollow Dispersed Camping. There are some fantastic dispersed campsites just outside of Shenandoah National Park. The campground features vault-toilets and a water source.

Flights To Shenandoah National Park

Go for a day pack that fits you well and is comfortable on your back. Sleeping bag – Camping in Shenandoah can get chilly in the evenings, especially at locations higher up in the mountains. Go for a sleeping bag with a warm enough tog to keep you nice and snug. You can’t do your business within 20 yards of a trail, stream, or road. Sort out your rental before you’re [TAKE NOTE RENTALCARS.COM] to get the best price. Rentalcars.com simplifies the process at a lower cost and can match you with the right vehicle for your adventure.

For those camping, you’ll primarily want tobe vigilant about keeping food properly storedandkeeping a close eye out for snakes. Check out a comprehensive list of backcountry camping itineraries in Shenandoah here. Given that there are only three campsites and the Dundo Group Campground, all sites must be reserved in advance. Lewis Mountain Campground is the smallest campground in Shenandoah National Park, and is located just off the Appalachian Trail at mile marker 57.5.

Alternatively, hike south to reach Pocosin Cabin, a quaint trailside cabin built by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club in 1937. It’s also a short southbound hike off the AT on the Lewis Mountain Trail to the summit overlook. A picnic area is on the north side of the campground, adjacent to Skyline Drive. Away from the main park road, the campground feels refreshingly remote. Yet, Lewis Mountain is mere steps from the white-blazed Appalachian Trail, which runs south-to-north along the east side of this small campground. Lewis Mountain is a prime pick for those eager for a quiet, more intimate camping experience, as well as on-site amenities, like an ice machine, coin-operated laundry and showers.

The Luray KOA can accommodate RVs up to 70′ in length and provides guests with access to WiFi, a dog park, snack bar, and pool. Campfires are not allowed in the backcountry of Shenandoah, so if you’re planning a backpacking trip be sure to bring a camp stove. Fires are generally allowed at each of the five campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park.The fire must be contained within the provided fire pit/grate and should not be left unattended. It is also important to ensure that any wood you bring into the park is properly sourced, as firewood can introduce invasive pests that can cause irreparable damage. The campground has five public restrooms, plenty of potable water spigots, utility sinks for cleaning up, and an RV dump station. The Traces Trail can be accessed directly from the campground, making for a lovely walk directly from your campsite.

The Appalachian Trail rubs up against the south side of this campground. From here, it’s an easy hike to Blackrock Summit, and further on to Trayfoot Mountain by way of the Trayfoot Mountain Trail. There are several nearby hikes of note, including the Loft Mountain Loop by way of the Frazier Discovery Trail and Appalachian Trail.

Near The Front Royal Entrance

It is especially important to practiceLeave No Trace principleswhen dispersed camping. There are plenty of RV campgrounds near Shenandoah National Park. The following sections contain all the basic information you need to ensure you have a great time camping in Shenandoah National Park. You can view all of the backcountry campsite regulations for Shenandoah National Park here. Backcountry camping is an incredible way to experience Shenandoah National Park.

Shenandoah National Park Backcountry Camping

Check the weather – Before making your way to your campsite, check the weather forecast for the area. The mountains can bring changeable weather, and it’s always good to know what to expect so that you are prepared. Filter water bottle – Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re hiking on a hot day. A filter water bottle will help you have access to water, even when you’re in the mountains away from clean drinking water. The location of this awesome Shenandoah glamping spot is also a big sell. Situated on a river, there’s a deck overlooking the water and kayaks to take out if you feel like a paddle.

Backcountry camping is also an option within the park with a free backcountry permit. Sites can be booked online at Recreation.gov up to one-year in advance at a rate of $75 per night. Take the Appalachian Trail north for the short scramble to the summit of Bearfence Mountain at milepost 56.4.