Camping at Loft Mountain Campground

Overview of Loft Mountain Campground

Loft Mountain Campground is a popular camping spot located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, which offers guests a chance to enjoy the park's natural beauty and wildlife. As the largest campground in Shenandoah, it provides numerous facilities and services geared toward making the camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Campsite Features

The campsites at Loft Mountain Campground are quite varied, to accommodate different types of campers:

• Tent sites: Many sites are designed specifically for tent camping, with level areas to pitch a tent.
• RV Sites: There are also spots for RVs, though it's important to verify the maximum length of RV that can be accommodated.
• Amenities: Typical campground amenities include potable water, flush toilets, and a camp store where you can purchase camping essentials and firewood.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite usually provides a fire ring and a picnic table.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at this campground, emphasizing a more traditional camping experience.

Things to Do

• Hiking: There are numerous trails near Loft Mountain Campground, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail.
• Wildlife Viewing: Shenandoah National Park is rich in wildlife; you may see deer, black bears, and a variety of birds.
• Scenic Drives: Skyline Drive runs through Shenandoah National Park and offers spectacular views, especially during the fall foliage season.

Booking and Fees

• Reservations: Campsite reservations can often be made in advance online through the National Recreation Reservation System or by phone.
• Fees: The campground charges a nightly fee per campsite, which varies based on the type and location of the site.
• Season: Typically, Loft Mountain Campground is open from spring through fall, with the exact dates subject to weather conditions and park management decisions.

Rules and Regulations

• Check-in and Check-out Times: Ensure you follow the established check-in and check-out times for the campground.
• Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is prohibited, and it's essential to store food properly to avoid attracting animals to your campsite.
• Quiet Hours: Respect the quiet hours typically enforced to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times and cannot be left unattended.

Safety and Preparation

• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and cooler temperatures, especially at night.
• Bear Safety: Properly secure food and scented items to avoid bear encounters.
• Hiking Safety: If you plan to hike, be prepared with appropriate footwear, water, maps, and knowledge of the trails.

Accessibility

Loft Mountain Campground has sites that are more accessible for visitors with disabilities, featuring:

• Accessible Sites: Some campsites are designed to be accessible with features like raised fire grates and extended picnic tables.
• Facilities: Accessible restroom facilities are available within the campground.

Getting There

Loft Mountain Campground is accessible via Skyline Drive, which traverses the entire length of Shenandoah National Park. The campground is located in the southern portion of the park, roughly at milepost 79. This mid-mountain location offers beautiful views and easy access to many of the park's amenities.

Always check the National Park Service's official website or contact the park directly for the most current information and any alerts or changes that might affect your visit.