The best camping near George Washington National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next George Washington National Forest adventure.

98% (46 reviews)
98% (46 reviews)

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near George Washington National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in George Washington National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near George Washington National Forest

99%
(474)

Thunder Bridge

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Natural Bridge Station, VA
Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the Jefferson National Forest, Thunder BRidge has scenic, large, private tent sites and cabins in the woods for those who want to experience camping at its finest. Many of the sites border Elk Creek. Our RV sites are large, flat and at the edge of the forest in a well kept open green space. Our 100 acres was originally a camp built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the "30s and early '40s, then a boys' juvenile detention center and Big Brothers'/Big Sisters' camp, which closed in 2009. The tent sites and cabins are in the forest, away from the buildings out front, but you're free to walk around and check out the historic site. We'd like to share the camp with others and see it come back to life. All within a short driving distance are the Natural Bridge, wineries, breweries, Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Dinosaur Kingdom, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, James River, historic Lexington, Devil's Marbleyard, Glenwood Horse Trail, swimming holes, etc. We have river access 2 miles up the road if you'd like to fish or put your kayak or canoe in. Truly, there is something nearby for everyone. We'd be happy to give you recommendations of things to see and do. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
90%
(631)

Traveler's Meadow

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Broadway, VA
Enjoying 8 acres of the simpler life with Renee and our children, 15 minutes north of Harrisonburg, Virginia. We love animals, planting gardens, preserving quality food, and hiking and camping in both of the world-famous national parks here. We are 4th year hosts, and immensely gratified to share all we can from this amazing Shenandoah Valley. For many adventure seekers, we have been a gateway to nearby attractions, while many of our guests come here specifically to enjoy a humble get-away in the woods with electricity, great Wi-Fi and a hot shower. There are several petting zoos near us, in case you want a little close-up exposure to some cute farm animals. We are located 45 minutes from the Shenandoah National Park. Nathan is an avid hiker and familiar with many fun outdoor attractions in the area. Please reach out to us, should you need any help planning your trip. Some great hikes: Trayfoot Mountain to Blackrock Summit from Port Republic Rd Elliot Knob and High Knob fire towers Fridley's gap swimming hole & overlook. Meems Covered Bridge in Mt. Jackson Wildflower Trail (see a long lost, 500-pound millstone) Blue Ridge Tunnel Hone Quarry falls Reddish Knob Emerald Pond Yellow Rock Cliff and Storybook Trail (Great overlooks!!) Please ask about scheduled group hikes as well, we would love to help you have a good time. Other fun things: Frontier Cultural Museum Back Home on the Farm Melrose Caverns Ruby's Arcade (awesome wood fired pizza, 150 year old Duck Pin game)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15.30
 / night
98%
(317)

Arcadia Sanctuary

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · Buena Vista, VA
Arcadia is the name we gave to our 83-acre mountainside retreat center for Earth-Based Spirituality. It’s nestled on the south-eastern slope of 4000-foot Mount Pleasant in Central Virginia, convenient to I81. (Note, there is a town called Arcadia off I81, but that is not us. Not to confuse.) We have a mountain creek with waterfalls, towering Beech and Sycamore trees, Witch Hazels leaning over the water, trout, crayfish, snakes, salamanders, and all the rest. We have about 2000 feet of the vertical mountainside with trails to explore. (But the stage and most of the camping is down closer to creek-level.) There are more sites higher up the mountain if you like more isolated camping. More of a trek to the bathrooms/showers/freshwater. We have one of the finest private stages on the East Coast with a top-notch sound system and a natural amphitheater which is like a single pie wedge of a Stadium that has regular live performances throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Our yurt is regularly booked as a unique glamping experience. There are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and guinea fowl free-roaming. Two dogs, nine cats, and several humans are blessed to call this home.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$22.50
 / night
93%
(37)

Love Ridge Mountain Lodging

24 sites · Lodging, Tents17 acres · Lyndhurst, VA
Love Ridge Mountain Lodging--NEAR SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARKExperience the beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail. Take a dip at nearby Sherando Lake and stop in to some of the many local food and craft beverage hotspots. Then retreat to your own mountain cabin or campsite.Situated at 2,800 feet in the hamlet of Love, Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging borders the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 16. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat to the mountains or a jumping off point for exploring central Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging is the perfect choice.CABINSIndulge in a romantic getaway at one of our Blue Ridge Parkway Cabins, creating lasting memories with your loved one. 4 of our cabins are pet friendly.FAMILIESOur family cabins sleep 10+ and are the perfect place for kids to connect to nature and and an opportunity for busy parents to relax. PET FRIENDLYSelect from our four mountain cabins and campsites that offer a dog-friendly experience, ensuring a great space for both humans and their four-legged companions. View White Rock Cabin, Meadow Mountain Cabin, Sherando Cabin or Spy Rock Cabin for a pet-friendly cabins.HOT TUBSSome cabins offer a private hot tub, while a number of the smaller cabins offer jetted in-room tubs.GRILLS and FIREPITSGuests love the convenience of private outdoor grills for cooking and communal firepits.EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR STAY AND ONLINE STORERent an e-bike and cruise the parkway, take in the night skies around Love Ridge. Love Ridge has a variety of experiences to choose from. Our online store has a variety of food options. Advance notice may be needed for some items, so book early.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
95%
(199)

Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Linville, VA
Hilltop with views of the mountains facing east and west. Close to Harrisonburg. Several areas to camp in, take your pick. Nice shady wooded area overlooking Joes Creek. Be happy to give you a tour of the mushroom farm. Learn more about this land: The wooded area is next to my house. There's about 4 acres to explore and a gravel road rarely traveled for a nice walk to a view for a great sunset.  Harrisonburg is 5 minutes from here and has lots of night life, micro breweries etc. I have long power cords if you need electric at the campsite. You may hear owls hooting at night.  The campsite is under white pines with a thick bed of pine needles. There are several campsites under the red cedar trees that are naturally bug and mosquito resistant.     Shenandoah National Park is about 45 minutes away if you go to the 33 entrance and 45 minutes away to go to the Luray entrance. Lots of bears there and hikes to waterfalls. No hunting there.  Solar panels provide half of my energy needs. GW National forest has lots of hiking and mt biking and is half an hour away. Great views of the mountains from the  campsite area.  I'm dedicated to having lots of native plants and trees. I do not spray any pesticides.  Plenty of free firewood. Not too far off interstate 81.  I give tours of the mushroom farm whenever the weather isn't below freezing. I don't recommend anything larger than a conversion van. Very small pull behind campers are OK . All campers are required to leave every day from 1 to 5. Belongings may be kept here.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$21.60
 / night
99%
(285)

Magic at Galleywinter

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Afton, VA
Galleywinter Farm is a 20-acre working horse farm with an organic garden and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.Our whole farm fosters a sense of connection with nature, deep restfulness and relaxation. Explore our woods trails, beautiful spots to sit, or observe the horses. Our yoga and mediation studio with its gorgeous smooth wood floors offers serenity, a space to sit, stretch, or practice yoga.Galleywinter is a perfect place for a quiet getaway, great hiking trails just 4 miles away - guests have easy access to Shenandoah National Forest, George Washington National Forest, Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail. The Blue Ridge Tunnel is also a famous, historic site just minutes away. We are nearby many local breweries, restaurants, good grocery stores, art & antique shops. Great for folks wanting a quiet and restorative getaway.Our check-in window is between 3:00- 7:00, if you need to check in later message us and we'll try to accommodate. If it is significantly later, you can purchase this as an extra. We do observe quiet hours after 9:00 pm to ensure peace and quiet for everyone on the property. 
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night
100%
(69)

Wild Phlox Farm

2 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Keezletown, VA
Located at the base of the western Massanutten Ridge in the Shenandoah Valley, our six-acre property is nestled in the hamlet of Keezletown. Our campsite is located along a gurgling stream (Cub Run), perfect for wading in on hot summer days or falling asleep to as the evenings cool. Across the stream horses pasture, and in the field next to the campsite several goats graze. We are in a fantastic biking location: the winding back country roads make for wonderful road bike excursions. We are also just minutes down the road from the Western Slopes trails, over 25 miles of mountain bike and hiking trails. Other great hiking trails are nearby as well, and the Blue Ridge Mountains (Appalachian Trail) are an easy half-hour drive away. Our area abounds with wineries and breweries, both in bucolic settings with gorgeous views or in downtown Harrisonburg, which is a 10-minute drive away, and also home to a variety of great dining options. Other options include the water park at the Massanutten Resort, just around the mountain from us, or kayaking on the Shenandoah River. Or spending a quiet day on the property in the shade of the sycamores, listening to the water flow by.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$34.20
 / night
97%
(46)

Meili Mtn - Tye River Waterfall

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Tyro, VA
A beautiful, convenient yet very private property on the Tye River will be your base camp for all your favorite area attractions. (Pronounced Mae-Lee) Camp, hike, fish, and relax on 35 heavily wooded acres in the Washington and Jefferson National Forest. The property was bought in 2021 and new features are being added for the ideal hipcamp getaway. Stay tuned for more details and picture as they become available. Learn more about this land: This is your perfect, fully unplugged, rustic back country getaway. Conveniently located directly off Route 56 and across from the Tye River, yet heavily wooded with hiking access to a stunning private waterfall and stream. Only 1/2 mile upstream from Crabtree Falls and about 5 miles to the 3 Ridges/Priest Mountain trailhead on the AT. Also easy drives to many of our favorites like: St Mary's Wilderness - Blue Mtn Barrel House - Trager Brothers Coffee - Basic Necessities Cafe - Spy Rock - Wintergreen - The Brewing Tree - White Rock Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway - Montebello General Store (public restroom for customers) - Sweet Bliss Bakery - Jefferson & Washington National Forest - Tantivy Lavender Farm and so much more. This back-country location has multiple tent sites available* with no amenities and very limited to no cell coverage. We are allowing some camping near the waterfall on an 8x8 wooden tent platform or feel free to camp at a few other spots on the property we will share during booking. (no other campfire site are permitted on the property, although we have a firepit at 2 locations). *Please note that there is NO camping available at the waterfall.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$53.10
 / night
98%
(64)

Ultimate private camping

1 site · RV, Tent235 acres · Hot Springs, VA
Since Hipcamp called to clarify... we are indeed offering the entire property to only one group at a time. You read that right you can camp anywhere on the property, move around, and feel free to stay multiple nights. This 235.51 acre property has all of the most sought-after characteristics: close to the amenities of Hot Springs and The Homestead resort, total privacy and protection, beautiful trout stream, direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails on the adjoining 3000 acres of National Forest, and a 60-mile sunset view. It offers over 1,000 ft of vertical gain. The property includes a half mile of Cowardin Run. With generally mild winter weather, the property is perfect for experience the magic of the Allegheny Mountains. Significant improvements to the road with addition of culverts and a top coat of stone were done over the 2023-2024 winter. We offer the same low light level as the International Dark Sky Park in Millboro for excellent astronomy and night-sky viewing. *Note: Game trail cameras in use - they are not hidden and are not for the purpose of video surveillance* *Note: During business hours Environmental Specialist, VDOF or USDA may visit to check in on the forest/structures/habitat. *
Pets
Campfires
from 
$43.20
 / night
98%
(70)

Misty Mountain Camp Resort

127 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Greenwood, VA
Welcome to Misty Mountain Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers a delightful, relaxing vacation at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains near historic Charlottesville, Virginia. Whether you're looking for a private getaway, a group gathering, or fun with the kids, Misty Mountain Camp Resort is sure to meet your needs. Our scenic 50-acre park provides private sites nestled in the trees and a large recreational building with banquet seating to accommodate any large group. Explore nature trails, splash in our pool, sit by the creek, fish in our pond, play at several playgrounds, climb our hills, shoot hoops and spike the volleyball or pitch horseshoes, take a hayride, enjoy live music and dances, shop at our General Store, shoot pool and play video games, relax in solitude or join with new friends - the choice is yours and it's all at Misty Mountain Camp Resort! OUR ACCOMMODATIONS • Cabins We offer a wide range of cabins to fit any need, from a single room to 3 bedrooms. All cabins have A/C, heat, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, fire ring, and picnic table. Cabins 1-4, 6, 8 & 13-16 are pet friendly. Bring your own linens, blankets, pillows, or towels as we do not provide those. • RV Sites Our RV sites can accommodate any size of camper. We offer full hookup 50/30 amp, water, and electric 50/30 amp, pull-through, and back-in sites. All sites have gravel pads, picnic tables, a fire ring, and Wifi. Most sites have complimentary digital cable TV. • Tent Sites We have several tenting options for small to large groups. Creekside sites for up to 8 people and backcountry sites for up to 100. All sites have a picnic table, fire ring, lantern hook, bench, and table. OUR AMENITIES We provide a wide range of accommodations and event facilities. We take pride in providing every service with a smile, and to your highest level of satisfaction. • Jump pad • Playground • Misty Mountain Mining Company • Stocked fishing pod • Cornhole & horseshoes • Outdoor sports • Pool • Country Store • Fitness Room • Live Music • Planned Activities • Food trucks • Bathhouse and laundry • Community & Club Rooms FEATURED ATTRACTIONS • Pro Re Nata Brewery • Nature Trails • Long Distance Trails • Grand Caverns • Hill Top Winery • Monticello
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

The best camping near George Washington National Forest guide

Overview

About

Home to a chunk of the Appalachian Trail and miles of streams, this national recreation area is a mecca for outdoor activities. Kayaking of bass fishing in nearby Sherando Lake is popular among local anglers who frequent the Blue Ridge Mountains. But for those of would rather lace-up their hiking shoes, take advantage of the miles of trails that comb through the area’s million acres wilderness. Camping couldn’t be easier, as well, with many primitive and all-inclusive campgrounds in and around the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. For a clear view of the area’s greenspaces, hike up to Mount Rogers to get a nearly 6,000-foot-view of the surrounding terrain 

Camping at this park couldn't be any easier (or plentiful). The area’s over 40 campgrounds are split up into eight distinct camping districts. RV and car camping exists at the vast majority of these campgrounds, with full hookups and drinking water available at each. 

Primitive and dispersed camping opportunities can be had anywhere outside the designated campground. There’s no cost to setup primitive sites in the area but take not that services and facilities are not provided. And given how notoriously treacherous off-trail camping is in Appalachia, prepare well. Also, black bears frequent the area—so be mindful of how you store your trash. That, and bring some bear spray along with you for peace of mind.

The fall and winter months in the area can get downright chilly, which is when you should take respite in one of the park’s rentable cabins. Single bedroom cabins like the one at Stony Fork are perfect for the solo campers. Larger, more group-friendly cabins can be had, too. Regardless, just outside the doors of these well-furnished cabins, outdoorsmen (and women) can find trailheads to the Appalachian Trail, Seven Sisters Trail, and more. 

While year-round camping is possible, we’d recommend hitting this park up Summer and Spring. But, for postcard-worthy fall vibes, hike the two-mile trail that leads to the Cascade Fall come early October.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.