Camping in Shenandoah, VA
35 campgrounds · 3 areas · Best April through November
Shenandoah National Park stretches along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, offering some of the most accessible and scenic mountain camping on the East Coast. Skyline Drive runs the length of the park with overlooks at every turn, and over 500 miles of trails — including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail — wind through hardwood forests, past waterfalls, and along rocky ridgelines.
Why Camp in Shenandoah
- ✓Camp along the crest of the Blue Ridge with stunning valley views
- ✓Over 500 miles of trails including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail
- ✓Four developed campgrounds and extensive backcountry camping options
- ✓Spectacular fall foliage in October makes it one of the best autumn camping destinations
Where to Camp in Shenandoah
Big Meadows
Mountain meadow, hardwood forestThe most popular campground in the park at milepost 51 on Skyline Drive. Open meadow setting at 3,500 feet with excellent stargazing. Near Dark Hollow Falls, one of the park's most popular short hikes. Camp store and showers on site.
Matthews Arm
Hardwood forest, mountain ridgeThe northernmost campground in the park, quieter and less crowded than Big Meadows. Near Overall Run Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park at 93 feet. Good wildlife viewing including deer and black bear.
Loft Mountain
Mountain ridge, open viewsSouthern section campground with some of the best panoramic views in the park. Sites on the ridge offer sunset views over the Shenandoah Valley. Access to several Appalachian Trail sections and backcountry routes.
Top Campgrounds
Shenandoah River State Park
Virginia · 28.4 mi
Trout Pond Recreation Area
West Virginia · 36.3 mi
Elizabeth Furnace Group Camp
Virginia · 32.3 mi
Lewis Mountain Campground
Virginia · 3.1 mi
Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (VA)
Virginia · 3.8 mi
Loft Mountain Campground
Virginia · 19.6 mi
Mathews Arm Campground
Virginia · 21.4 mi
Elizabeth Furnace
Virginia · 31.7 mi
Local Tips for Shenandoah
- 1.Big Meadows fills quickly on weekends from May through October. Reserve on Recreation.gov up to 6 months ahead.
- 2.Fall foliage peaks in mid-October and draws large crowds. Weekday visits offer a better experience during leaf season.
- 3.Black bears are common throughout the park. Use provided food storage poles and lockers at all campsites.
- 4.Skyline Drive has a 35 mph speed limit and is often foggy. Budget extra time for driving between trailheads.
- 5.Backcountry camping requires a free permit and offers solitude just a mile or two from Skyline Drive.
Activities
Experience Levels
Gear for Shenandoah
Make sure you have the right equipment for camping in Shenandoah.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to camp in Shenandoah?
Late May through June offers wildflowers and green forests. September through October brings stunning fall color. Summer is warm and humid in the valleys but pleasant on the ridgetop. Spring can be rainy but uncrowded.
Can I camp along the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah?
Yes. Backcountry camping is allowed with a free permit. Several AT shelters and designated backcountry sites are available. You must camp at least 20 yards from trails and 250 yards from paved roads.
Is Shenandoah good for beginner campers?
Excellent. The developed campgrounds have full facilities, the trails are well-marked, and the park is close to major East Coast cities. Big Meadows has a camp store, showers, and ranger programs.
How far is Shenandoah from Washington, DC?
The northern entrance at Front Royal is about 75 miles (1.5 hours) from DC. The central section at Big Meadows is about 2 hours. It makes an ideal weekend camping trip from the DC metro area.
