North River Campground
4.6114 reviews401 Oakwood Drive Harrisonburg, VA 22801
North River Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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 costs $5 per site per night. Payment is accepted via cash or check only. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes provide a 50% discount on base campsite fees. Reservation fees may apply, and sites are first-come, first-served.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the wilderness, North River Campground offers an authentic escape where history meets adventure. This secluded gem, born from the industrious hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps, invites you to camp beneath towering pines while the gentle murmur of creek waters provides nature's soundtrack. The campground's thoughtful loop design creates a welcoming space for families and large groups to gather, share stories around the fire, and embark on endless outdoor pursuits. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring winding trails on foot or bike, or tracking game through the autumn woods, this primitive paradise serves as your basecamp for unforgettable wilderness experiences.
North River Campground offers primitive camping with combined sites accommodating both tent and RV setups. The campground is first-come, first-served, emphasizing its rustic and undeveloped nature.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at North River Campground, where the legacy of America's Greatest Generation lives on in every weathered stone and forest path. During the 1930s, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this wilderness into a haven for future generations, their craftsmanship still evident in the camp's enduring infrastructure. As you wander the grounds, you'll discover echoes of an even earlier era – old logging trails that snake through the forest, whispering tales of the region's timber heritage. These historic remnants add layers of meaning to your camping experience, connecting you to the generations of Americans who have worked and played in these ancient woods.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of nature's moods at North River, where each season paints the landscape with its own distinctive palette. Winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures that demand cozy sleeping bags and the possibility of waking to frost-kissed mornings. As spring unfolds, the forest awakens under increasingly clear skies, leading into glorious early summer days when dry conditions and comfortable temperatures hovering near 85°F create perfect camping weather. Late spring through early summer offers the sweet spot for outdoor adventures, with reliable sunshine and minimal precipitation making every day an invitation to explore.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation within the mountain landscape, North River Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. While specific elevation data awaits documentation, visitors can expect the refreshing climate and pristine air quality characteristic of the region's forested highlands.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at North River Campground, where majestic pines stretch skyward, creating a living cathedral of green. The creek embraces the campground in a natural horseshoe, its crystal-clear waters dancing over time-smoothed stones and offering both a soothing ambiance and endless entertainment for young explorers. Dappled sunlight filters through the pine canopy, creating an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow across your campsite. Open patches of sky provide stellar stargazing opportunities, while the surrounding forest offers intimate glimpses of wildlife and wildflowers. Every view frames a postcard-perfect scene, from misty morning reflections on the water to golden hour light painting the pine trunks in warm amber hues.
Geological RegionNorth River Campground claims its place within the magnificent George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, a vast wilderness sanctuary where ancient mountains tell stories written in stone and stream. This protected landscape represents millions of years of geological artistry, where the forces of time have sculpted valleys, carved waterways, and nurtured the towering pine forests that define the region. The campground's creekside setting showcases the ongoing dialogue between water and land, as the stream continues its patient work of shaping the landscape. Here, amid one of the East Coast's most treasured forest systems, campers become part of a living ecosystem where every rock, tree, and bend in the creek reflects the profound natural heritage of the Appalachian highlands.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available, but no further accessibility features were explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeMost sites are small, as noted by user reviews. Daniel Lazenby mentions: 'Most sites are small. There's a couple sites that can accommodate a 35-foot trailer.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is reasonable according to user reviews. Capt S.S. states: 'Wonderful camp sites with reasonable privacy.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside spots for scenic views and easy access to water.
Best CampsitesMost sites near the creek offer waterfront access, but specific site numbers are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in and check-out times are not provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 21 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight persons per campsite.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly detailed, although the loop configuration of sites makes it suitable for large families or scout outings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground follows a loop configuration with sites in an outer ring or inner circle.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen early March until late December.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available online; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 12 sites are first-come, first-served. Reviewers advise arriving early on weekends to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy mentioned; sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The North River Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for campers seeking a rustic experience. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, and biking, with specific trails and fishing opportunities detailed in official sources and user reviews.
Hiking
The campground is close to North River Gorge #538 Trail, which spans approximately 4.6 miles and supports hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. User Josh (JB) highlights the great hiking trails directly attached to the area.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in the North River. User Tom Mabrey notes: 'Kids wandered into camp with two nice trout,' suggesting nearby fishing opportunities.Biking
Mountain biking is supported, and trails are mentioned as multi-use for biking, hiking, and equestrian use. User reviews do not provide specific details about biking terrain or difficulty.Winter Activities
User reviews and official sources do not detail winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Wading in the creek is possible, but no further water sports activities are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire policies unspecified; assume standard safety guidelines.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad access includes rough gravel roads and 180-degree switchback turns, which may be challenging for larger RVs. Wildlife sightings and seasonal creek water levels may impact camping.
Active alertsThere are no current alerts or advisories for the campground.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
North River Ranger District Office, 401 Oakwood Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801. Phone: 540-432-0187; Closest hospital and police station information unavailable.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is surrounded by the creek on two sides, forming a horseshoe. Nearby Stanton Dam Day Use Area and Elkhorn Lake offer additional water recreation opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviewers mention the proximity of campsites leads to limited privacy. Others note the lack of drinking water and facilities.
HostCampground host present; described as 'attentive' and 'great' by reviewers.
Campground Map
401 Oakwood Drive Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Driving directionsFrom Staunton, VA: Follow U.S. 250 west to Churchville. Continue west on U.S. 250 for 10 miles past Churchville and turn right onto State Route (S.R.) 715. This road turns into Forest Development Road (FDR) 96. Follow S.R. 715/FDR 96 8.5 miles to FDR 95 and turn right. Follow FDR 95 2.1 miles to the intersection with FDR 958 and turn right. North River Campground is one mile on the left.
Access to the campground is on rough gravel roads.Nearby places
Staunton, VA - approximately 17 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery stores and camping supplies located in Staunton, VA, approximately 17 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
North River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's rustic appeal, affordability, and peaceful environment. Positive sentiments focus on the minimal facilities, scenic surroundings, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Affordable camping fee of $5 per night, peaceful environment with no cell service, and clean vault toilets are among the highlights mentioned by users. The camp host is praised for attentiveness and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Lack of potable water, flush toilets, and showers are noted by several users. Some campers express a desire for more privacy between sites and criticize the accessibility of gravel roads leading to...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash or checks for the self-service payment drop box. Carry sufficient water since none is provided. Reviewers suggest arriving early to secure a spot during peak weekends and bringing proper...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer and fall are popular seasons for camping, as noted in user reviews describing the campground being packed with RV groups during these times. Winter camping experiences are not detailed.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Since 1970 I have only missed one year.' - Timothy Mizell
2. 'No shower. No running water—except that all the camp sites are right next to the river, so there is plenty of running water.' - Bo...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details are minimal, but users mention waterfront access for most sites due to the river's horseshoe configuration around the campground.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly toilets are available, but user reviews do not elaborate on additional accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash per regulations. User reviews do not provide further details on pet experiences.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025