Camping at Shenandoah National Park - Big Meadows Campground

Location & Access

Big Meadows Campground is located at Mile 51.2 on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. This central location provides easy access to many of the park's main attractions and hiking trails. The nearest town with full services is Luray, located about 30 minutes away by car.

Campsite Information

Campsite Types: The campground has individual sites for tent and RV camping, along with a few group campsites. Some sites are reserved for walk-up customers on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.

Campsite Amenities:

• Potable water
• Flush toilets
• Fire rings and picnic tables
• Dump station (for RVs)

There are no electric hookups available in the campground, which emphasizes a more rustic camping experience.

Operating Seasons & Dates

Season: Big Meadows Campground typically operates from spring through late fall, but exact dates can vary yearly. Check the National Park Service website or Recreation.gov for current operating dates.

Reservations: Reservations can generally be made up to 6 months in advance, and it is highly recommended to reserve a spot early, especially for peak seasons like summer and fall weekends.

Local Attractions & Activities

Hiking: The campground is a hub for numerous hiking trails, including the popular Dark Hollow Falls, Hawksbill Mountain, and Rose River Loop. The Appalachian Trail also passes through Shenandoah National Park.

Wildlife Viewing: Shenandoah is home to deer, black bears, and many species of birds and other wildlife. Big Meadows area is especially known for its deer population, which is often visible in the meadow itself.

Visitor Centers and Education: The Byrd Visitor Center is located near Big Meadows Campground and offers educational exhibits, a bookstore, and information about the park.

Stargazing: With little light pollution, the campground provides excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

Camping Fees

Fees: Camping fees vary by site type and season. Current rates and fee information can be checked at the time of reservation or by contacting the park directly.

Regulations & Safety

It's important to familiarize yourself with park rules and regulations, such as food storage requirements aimed at preventing bear encounters, keeping pets on leashes, and observing quiet hours.

Firewood Regulation: To prevent the spread of invasive insects, the park encourages buying firewood locally within the park or gathering dead and down wood.

Contact Information & Reservations

For reservation and detailed information, visitors should contact:

• National Park Service: http://www.nps.gov/shen
• Reservations: http://www.recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777

Before heading out, always check the latest park alerts and weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.