Attractions in Shenandoah National Park

Whether you have an hour, a day, or a week, you can plan a great visit to Shenandoah National Park. Even if you are just passing through, use Skyline Drive for a portion of your route. Traveling from one of the four entrances to the next exit takes about an hour. Along the way you will see the beautiful vistas Shenandoah is known for.

If you can spend the day, check the ranger programs schedule for a hike, walk, or talk that interests you. Or look at our suggested day hikes. Visit one of the exhibits, go birdwatching, or wander in Big Meadows.

A week (or more!) in Shenandoah will fly by with hiking, evening programs at the campgrounds, entertainment at the lodges, visits to our cultural sites and exhibits, and excursions to nearby attractions.

Campgrounds
Reservations are currently being accepted for Big Meadows, Loft Mountain, and Mathews Arm campgrounds. Loft Mountain and Mathews Arm Campgrounds have approximately 20% of their sites available by reservation and 80% available as first-come, first-served.

Phone Reservations: 877-444-6777
RV Information
Although Shenandoah National Park doesn't have a campground that is just for RVs, it does have three campgrounds that will accommodate large RVs. Mathews Arm, Big Meadows and Loft Mountain campgrounds all have pull-through and deep back-in sites which most of the time can even handle an RV with a tow vehicle. Although we do not offer hookups, the campgrounds do have potable water and dump stations.

Mathews Arm Campground
Open
Mid-May through October
Details
Mathews Arm (mile 22.1) is the nearest campground for those entering the park from the north. It is next to a nature trail and the trail to Overall Run Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park. Elkwallow Wayside, with camping supplies and food service, is two miles away. $15 per night. Generator-free and group sites are available.

Big Meadows Campground
Open
Late March through November
Download regulations and campground map (PDF, 263 kb)
Details
Big Meadows (mile 51.2), though secluded, is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the park. Three waterfalls are within walking distance; the Meadow, with its abundant plant growth and wildlife, lies within walking distance. $20 per night when on the reservation system and $17 per night during late spring and early fall. Generator-free and group sites are available.

Lewis Mountain Campground
Open
Mid-April through October
Download regulations and campground map (PDF, 193 kb)
Details
Lewis Mountain (mile 57.5), the smallest campground in the park, appeals to those who want a little more privacy without venturing deep into the backcountry, yet it is within seven miles of the popular Big Meadows area. 31 sites; $15 per night, first-come, first-served only.

Loft Mountain Campground
Open
Mid-May through October
Download regulations and campground map (PDF, 298 kb)
Details
Loft Mountain (mile 79.5), the largest campground in the park, sits atop Big Flat Mountain with outstanding views to east and west. Two waterfalls and the trails into the Big Run Wilderness area are nearby. $15 per night. Generator-free and group sites are available.Group sites are under development, scheduled to open mid-summer 2007.

Picnic areas in Shenandoah are large and scenic, and offer a pleasant place for relaxing. There are picnic tables with grills nearby; accessible sites are available. Restrooms (open except in cold months) are accessible with assistance.

• Dickey Ridge (mile 4.7)
  
• Elkwallow (mile 24.1) - Open year-round
  
• Pinnacles (mile 36.7) - Open year-round
  
• Big Meadows (mile 51.2)
  
• Lewis Mountain (mile 57.5)
  
• South River (mile 62.8) - Open year-round
  
• Loft Mountain (mile 79.5) - CLOSED
  
• Dundo (mile 83.7)