Camping at Mathews Arm Campground

Overview

Mathews Arm Campground is one of the several campgrounds located in Shenandoah National Park, which is in the state of Virginia, USA. This campground is the nearest one to the Front Royal entrance of the park, making it a convenient spot for visitors entering from the north.

Location

Mathews Arm Campground is nestled at mile 22.1 on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The exact coordinates for the campground are approximately 38.7139° N, 78.3086° W.

Camping Season

The campground typically opens in the spring and closes in the fall. Specific opening and closing dates can vary from year to year, so it is wise to check the National Park Service website for Shenandoah or contact the park directly for the current season's schedule.

Facilities

Facilities at Mathews Arm Campground include:

• Campsites: Sites for tents and recreational vehicles, although no hookups are available.
• Potable Water: Available at various points throughout the campground.
• Restrooms: Flush toilets and sinks are available. Showers are not typically provided in Shenandoah National Park campgrounds.
• Ranger Programs: Offered seasonally, providing educational and interpretive programs about the park.
• Picnic Areas: Each campsite usually includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.

Reservations and Walk-ins

Some campsites at Mathews Arm Campground are available for reservation, which can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov. Other sites operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. During peak season, weekends and holidays, it is particularly advisable to make reservations.

Activities

• Hiking: There are over 500 miles of trails in Shenandoah National Park, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. From Mathews Arm, hikers can access trails like the Traces Trail and the Overall Run Trail, which features a stunning waterfall.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, and visitors might see deer, black bears, birds, and other smaller forest creatures.
• Scenic Drives: Skyline Drive runs the length of the park and offers numerous scenic overlooks.

Important Regulations

• Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is dangerous and illegal. All food and scented items must be stored properly to protect wildlife and visitors alike.
• Firewood: Due to the risk of transporting invasive insects, the park recommends sourcing firewood locally rather than bringing it from outside the park.
• Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. Some trails are not pet-friendly.
• Quiet Hours: Typically enforced to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers.

Safety Recommendations

• Weather Awareness: Be prepared for changeable weather and cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
• Bear Safety: Proper food storage and disposal are vital in bear country.
• Navigation: Have a map of the park and understand the trail system, as cell service can be unreliable.

Getting There

The most common way to reach Mathews Arm Campground is by car via Skyline Drive. The nearest major airport is in Washington D.C., which is about a 75-mile drive to the Front Royal entrance of the park.

Contact Information

For the most current information and reservations, contact Shenandoah National Park:

• Phone: (540) 999-3500
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm

It's always a good idea to check the latest conditions and regulations directly with the park before planning your trip.