Lewis Mountain Campground
4.5491 reviewsShenandoah National Park Headquarters, 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East, Luray, VA
Lewis Mountain Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $30 per night per site, with discounted rates of $15 per night for Access or Senior Pass holders. Payment is made via the Recreation.gov mobile app or self-registration envelope.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Shenandoah National Park, Lewis Mountain Campground offers an intimate escape from the crowds. As the park's smallest campground, it promises a tranquil retreat where the sounds of nature replace the buzz of busy campsites. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with wilderness charm—refresh with a hot shower from the coin-operated facilities, stock up on essentials at the camp store, or secure your provisions in bear-proof lockers. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with scenic trails weaving through the forest and connecting to the legendary Appalachian Trail. Here, mornings might begin with deer grazing nearby while evenings end with the distant call of owls echoing through the mountains.
Lewis Mountain Campground caters to tent and RV campers, offering primitive camping with minimal facilities. Cabins are also available for those seeking basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceLewis Mountain Campground serves as your gateway to centuries of Appalachian heritage. The legendary Appalachian Trail passes nearby, carrying the footsteps of countless adventurers along its 2,190-mile journey. Enhance your understanding of this storied landscape at the nearby Big Meadows Lodge, where evening programs reveal tales of early mountain settlers and the park's creation. The Byrd Visitor Center invites deeper exploration through interactive exhibits that chronicle the region's transformation from hardscrabble farmland to protected wilderness, preserving both natural wonders and the echoes of those who called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 3,000 feet, Lewis Mountain experiences nature's full theatrical performance throughout the year. Spring arrives with gentle rains that awaken wildflowers and paint the mountainsides in delicate pastels. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, though the elevation keeps nights refreshingly cool—a natural air conditioning that valley dwellers envy. Autumn transforms the landscape into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, gold, and amber, drawing leaf-peepers from across the country. Winter wraps the campground in serene stillness, with occasional snowfall creating a pristine wonderland where ice crystals glitter on bare branches and every breath forms clouds in the crisp mountain air.
ElevationRising 3,000 feet above sea level, Lewis Mountain Campground occupies a sweet spot in Shenandoah's vertical landscape. This elevation gifts campers with a natural climate advantage—while valley temperatures soar in summer, your mountain perch remains pleasantly cool, offering relief that no air conditioner can match. Morning mists often linger in the hollows below while your campsite basks in early sunlight, creating magical moments as the day unfolds. The thinner air carries the crisp scent of evergreens and hardwoods, reminding you with every breath that you've ascended into a different world.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Blue Ridge Mountains embrace Lewis Mountain Campground in a verdant amphitheater of natural splendor. Ancient hardwoods create a living canopy overhead, their leaves whispering secrets in the mountain breeze. Spring carpets the forest floor with trilliums, bloodroot, and lady's slippers, while autumn sets the hills ablaze with nature's most spectacular light show. Wildlife thrives in this protected sanctuary—white-tailed deer browse at forest edges, black bears lumber through berry patches, and wild turkeys strut across meadows. Each dawn and dusk becomes a front-row seat to nature's daily drama, where every rustle in the underbrush might reveal another woodland neighbor going about their day.
Geological RegionLewis Mountain Campground rests atop one of Earth's most ancient mountain ranges—the Blue Ridge, a weathered section of the southern Appalachians that has stood sentinel for over a billion years. To the east, the rolling Virginia Piedmont stretches toward the Atlantic, while westward views reveal the pastoral Shenandoah Valley, carved by millennia of patient erosion. This geological crossroads creates an extraordinary tapestry of ecosystems where northern and southern species mingle, mountain laurel blooms alongside azaleas, and every ridge and hollow supports its own unique community of plants and animals. The very rocks beneath your feet tell stories of continental collisions, ancient seas, and the slow sculpture of wind and water that created today's magnificent landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo accessible campsites are available, along with wheelchair-accessible showers and laundry facilities.
Sites SizeSites vary, with some being large and others described as "super small."
Sites PrivacyCampsites provide moderate privacy, with some users mentioning they are "well spaced out" while others found them "a bit close together."
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect campsites in shaded areas near the woods for less noise and traffic. Sites near the camp store and facilities may be more convenient but could lack privacy.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest sites at the far end of the campground for greater privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in operates on a first-come, first-served basis after payment is completed.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 noon.
Stay Limit
Stays are limited to 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people (or one immediate family) per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 30 individual campsites, including pull-through and back-in options for RVs. Sites are organized in a loop format.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 26 through November 30. Closed December 1 through March 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable; payment is made via Scan & Pay or self-registration envelopes.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites fill up quickly during peak season or weekends, as noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations and cancellations are not applicable since the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Payments made via Scan & Pay are non-refundable.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Lewis Mountain Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Located off Skyline Drive and near the Appalachian Trail, it provides access to trails and scenic overlooks. "Located right on the Appalachian Trail. Several day hiking opportunities from this location," noted one reviewer.
Hiking
Shenandoah National Park boasts over 500 miles of trails, with highlights like Bearfence Mountain and Lewis Mountain Trail. A reviewer praised the trails: "Bearfence Mountain is a nice 4.5-mile round trip hike, Lewis Mountain trail (1 mile) is worth doing at night to see the Milky Way."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as black bears, deer, and turkey are frequently seen. One user mentioned, "Deer come out and graze near you!"Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Byrd Visitor Center offers ranger programs and exhibits. "The ranger also gave a talk on the history of the place, worth checking out," said one reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter camping is unavailable as the campground is closed from December 1 to March 25.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire grates. USDA-certified firewood must be used to prevent the spread of invasive species. Dead wood may also be collected from the ground.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Extended generator hours allowed during early and late-season for heating purposes.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is inhabited by wildlife such as bears, deer, and raccoons. Proper storage of food and scented items is mandatory to prevent attracting dangerous animals. Weather hazards include snow, rain, and high winds.
Active alertsCurrent advisories include trail closures due to heavy rain damage. Visitors are encouraged to check updates for trail availability.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible at the Byrd Visitor Center, approximately 7 miles north along Skyline Drive. Medical services, if required, may necessitate travel to nearby towns such as Luray or Elkton.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 26 through November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection are available seasonally. Campers are advised to store trash securely due to the presence of wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water features are located within the campground. Nearby waterfalls and streams may be accessible via hiking trails.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention host behavior as unwelcoming or overly strict. Other complaints include limited privacy between campsites and occasional aggressive competition for sites.
HostCamp hosts are known for being attentive and friendly, although some reviews mention overly strict enforcement of rules. Hosting quality may vary seasonally.
Campground Map
Shenandoah National Park Headquarters, 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East, Luray, VA
Driving directionsLewis Mountain Campground is the closest campground for those entering Shenandoah National Park through Swift Run Entrance Station (Elkton, US 33). From Richmond, Virginia: travel west on I-64 to Charlottesville. Take exit to US-29 North. Turn left onto US-33 West, and follow 14 miles to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. Once on Skyline Drive, travel north from Swift Run Gap about eight miles to Lewis Mountain Campground (mile 57.5).
Access to the campground is via paved roads, specifically Skyline Drive. It is approximately 8 miles north of the Swift Run Entrance Station. Seasonal closures and occasional weather-related trail closures may impact access. Roads are generally well-maintained for vehicles.Nearby places
Luray (approximately 30 miles, 40 minutes drive)
Elkton (approximately 8 miles, 15 minutes drive)
Charlottesville (approximately 62 miles, 1 hour 30 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials can be purchased at the camp store located within the campground premises. Additional supplies are available at Big Meadows Lodge, approximately 7 miles north.
Camper Reviews
4.5
91 reviews
Lewis Mountain Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lewis Mountain Campground is praised for its seclusion, cleanliness, and proximity to trails. While most users appreciated the scenic beauty and friendly staff, a few raised concerns about aggressive behavior from other campers and inconsistent camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 91 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the campground's cleanliness, peaceful setting, and friendly staff. "The campground is smaller than the others, but the campstore manager is amazing," said one. "Bathrooms were...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported issues with camp host behavior and aggressive campers vying for sites. "Mary the camp host's message was clear and my last memory... is the camp host asking me how soon I would be...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a site. Bring exact change for showers and consider purchasing firewood before arriving, as supplies may be limited late in the day.
Based on 91 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended for their mild weather and scenic beauty. Summer reviews noted occasional humidity, while winter closure limits access.
Based on 91 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The scenery at Lewis Mountain Campground never disappoints." "We enjoyed ourselves a lot. I will definitely visit that place again." "Get here early to get a spot."
Based on 91 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as varying in size. Some are noted as "large," while others are "super small." Outer loop campsites feature bear boxes.
Based on 91 reviewsAccessibility Features
Two ADA-accessible sites and facilities like showers and laundry received positive comments regarding their accessibility.
Based on 91 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly by several users. "It's quiet, family-oriented, and dog-friendly," said one.
Based on 91 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025