Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (Va)
4.44680 reviewsShenandoah National Park Headquarters, 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East, Luray, VA 22835
Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (Va)
$15.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$30.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are structured by type: $30 per night for standard sites, $15 per night with Access or Senior Pass, and $75 per night for group sites. Additional administrative fees apply, and rates do not account for taxes.
About this campground
Perched high in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Big Meadows Campground serves as your gateway to Shenandoah National Park's most treasured experiences. With over 200 campsites nestled among ancient oaks and hickories, you'll wake to misty mountain mornings and fall asleep to the symphony of nocturnal wildlife. Just steps away, the Byrd Visitor Center beckons with exhibits and ranger expertise, while Big Meadows Wayside tempts hungry hikers with hearty meals. The nearby Lodge offers a touch of rustic elegance for those seeking indoor comforts. From your tent or RV, you're perfectly positioned to explore miles of hiking trails, catch breathtaking sunrises from Skyline Drive's overlooks, and spot the abundant wildlife that calls these mountains home.
Big Meadows Campground is suitable for a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Specific sites cater to those seeking more seclusion or access to larger facilities.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains whisper stories of centuries past. The legendary Appalachian Trail winds through the campground area, carrying the footsteps of thousands of through-hikers chasing their 2,190-mile dreams. Rangers bring history alive with programs exploring the park's fascinating past, from the mountain families who once called these hollows home to President Hoover's rustic Rapidan Camp retreat. Throughout the park, you'll discover the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose young workers transformed raw wilderness into the accessible wonderland we enjoy today. Their stonework, overlooks, and trails remain as monuments to Depression-era determination and craftsmanship.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Big Meadows with its own spectacular palette. Summer brings refreshingly mild days perfect for hiking and stargazing, with temperatures rarely climbing above the low 80s—a welcome escape from lowland heat. Autumn transforms the landscape into a living canvas of crimson, gold, and amber, drawing leaf-peepers from across the nation to witness nature's grand finale. Cool, crisp air makes for ideal camping conditions through October. Winter wraps the meadows in a quiet blanket of snow, though freezing temperatures and potential road closures make this season best suited for the most intrepid cold-weather campers. Spring emerges with carpets of wildflowers and the return of migratory songbirds.
ElevationBig Meadows sits at one of the loftiest points along Skyline Drive, where the thin mountain air feels noticeably cooler and cleaner than the valleys below. This high-elevation perch in the Blue Ridge Mountains creates a unique ecosystem where northern and southern species mingle, offering camping at heights typically found much farther north. The altitude provides natural air conditioning in summer and spectacular views year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to find a doe and her fawn grazing just beyond your tent, or catching a glimpse of a black bear foraging for berries in the distance. Big Meadows lives up to its name with expansive grassy areas that burst with wildflowers each spring and summer. The surrounding deciduous forest creates a living cathedral of towering oaks, maples, and hickories that shelter wild turkeys, barred owls, and countless songbirds. When autumn arrives, this woodland amphitheater explodes in a symphony of color that ranks among the East Coast's finest fall displays. Morning mists often settle in the valleys below, creating an ethereal sea of clouds that makes you feel like you're camping on an island in the sky.
Geological RegionBig Meadows Campground crowns the ancient backbone of the Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the timeless Appalachian chain that tells a billion-year geological story. From this commanding position in Shenandoah National Park, the land drops dramatically to the Virginia Piedmont on the eastern horizon and plunges into the pastoral Shenandoah Valley to the west. These weathered peaks, some of the oldest mountains on Earth, have been sculpted by eons of wind, water, and ice into the gentle, rolling ridgelines that cradle today's campers. The exposed rock faces and outcroppings throughout the area reveal layers of geological history, from ancient sea floors to volcanic activity that shaped this magnificent landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites and restrooms. Specific sites like E195 are noted as being close to electricity for those using medical devices like CPAP machines.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, including options for small tents, large multi-person tents, and RVs up to 50 feet long in pull-through sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies widely. Walk-in tent sites and outer-loop sites offer more seclusion, while inner-loop and RV sites are described as close together.
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWalk-in tent sites offer privacy and are recommended for those seeking seclusion. Generators are prohibited in specific loops, providing a quieter experience.
Best CampsitesMany users recommend E180 for its views of the Appalachian Trail and mountains.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is by noon.
Stay Limit
Up to 30 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties but are close to other campers, which some users criticized for noise.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are configured into loops (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I), accommodating tents and small RVs. Walk-in tent sites offer additional privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season opens March 26 and closes November 29 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made on Recreation.gov. Campsites are released in waves up to 6 months, 2 weeks, or 4 days prior to arrival.
Walk-in Availability100% of campsites require advance reservations during peak season (May 3 - November 25). Campsites do not permit walk-up use.
Cancellation PolicyVisitors can cancel reservations prior to arrival online or via call center. A $10 service fee applies for cancellations. Late cancellations incur the first night's fee. No refunds for one-night stays canceled on arrival day.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Big Meadows Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, many accessible directly from the campsite. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and ranger-led programs. With proximity to trails like the Appalachian Trail and waterfalls such as Dark Hollow Falls, the campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Shenandoah National Park boasts over 500 miles of hiking trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Popular hikes near Big Meadows include Dark Hollow Falls, Hawksbill, and Stony Man. Trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging.Biking
Biking paths and scenic rides along Skyline Drive offer opportunities for cycling enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The campground is frequented by deer, wild turkeys, and black bears. One camper shared, "We saw a deer with her fawn walk right through the campsite."Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led evening programs are popular, especially the Star Party for stargazing. The Byrd Visitor Center offers informative exhibits.Winter Activities
Some trails are accessible in winter for snowshoeing and other snow-based recreation.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Gathering dead wood is allowed, but sawing or cutting trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a primary concern; bear boxes are provided. Weather fluctuations, including fog and storms, may pose challenges, as well as slippery trails.
Active alertsNo active alerts specified.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.4 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
Emergency services include the Shenandoah National Park Headquarters (15 miles away) and facilities at Byrd Visitor Center (located 1 mile from the campground). Closest hospital is Page Memorial Hospital in Luray (approximately 15 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 26 - November 29.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are conveniently located throughout the campground, with some for specific items like propane canisters.
Proximity to water featuresNearby waterfalls include Dark Hollow Falls and Rose River Falls within walking distance.
Common complaintsComplaints include coin-operated showers, proximity of campsites, and generator noise in non-prohibited loops. Additional issues include maintenance and noise enforcement during peak seasons.
HostCampground hosts are mentioned as helpful but inconsistently present.
Campground Map
Shenandoah National Park Headquarters, 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East, Luray, VA 22835
Driving directionsFrom Washington, D.C., metro area, travel west on Interstate 66 to exit 43A. Take US Highway 29 south to Warrenton, Virginia, then merge onto US Highway 211 west to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive Thornton Gap Entrance. Take Skyline Drive south approximately 19 miles and turn right into the Big Meadows area. Follow the signs to Big Meadows Campground. From Richmond, Virginia area, travel west on Interstate 64 to exit 136 for Zion Crossroads, Virginia. Take exit to US Highway 15 North, then turn onto US Highway 33 west and follow 28 miles to the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, Swift Run Gap Entrance. Take Skyline Drive North approximately 15 miles and turn left into the Big Meadows area. Follow the signs to Big Meadows Campground.
The campground is accessible via Skyline Drive. Specific instructions warn against using Tanners Ridge Road, which does not provide entrance to Skyline Drive or access to Big Meadows Campground. Roads leading to Skyline Drive are paved, but conditions may vary based on weather. Seasonal closures due to weather may impact accessibility.Nearby places
Luray, VA (approximately 15 miles)
Stanley, VA (approximately 20 miles)
Front Royal, VA (approximately 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Big Meadows Wayside (located beside Byrd Visitor Center) offers fuel, camping supplies, and groceries. Big Meadows Lodge and Restaurant provide additional dining and basic supply options within walking distance (5-minute walk).
Camper Reviews
4.4
680 reviews
Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (Va) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Big Meadows Campground is highly rated, with an average sentiment of 4.29. Positive reviews focus on the clean facilities, variety of trails, and the scenic beauty of the park. Negative reviews address noise from generators and site proximity.
Review Summaries
Based on 680 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the campground's proximity to major hiking trails, clean facilities, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many appreciated the ranger-led programs and the convenience of the nearby...
Based on 680 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints included noise from generators, cramped sites in some loops, and the high cost of amenities such as firewood and showers. Some campers were disappointed by the lack of cellular...
Based on 680 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve generator-free sites for a quieter experience. Bring quarters for showers and extra stakes for tents due to windy conditions. A visitor recommended, "If you're coming during peak foliage,...
Based on 680 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during fall foliage and summer weekends. Spring offers lush wildflowers, while fall provides stunning leaf colors. Winter camping is quieter but comes with limited amenities.
Based on 680 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Big Meadows is my happy place. Great facilities and wonderfully peaceful." "We loved the lodge—don't miss the blackberry ice cream pie!" "Be aware of generator noise—it’s better to reserve in...
Based on 680 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site E180 received praise for its views of the mountains and proximity to the Appalachian Trail. However, some sites like H215 were criticized for being uneven.
Based on 680 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites like E195 were highlighted for their convenience to electrical sources and restrooms.
Based on 680 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many campers appreciated the pet-friendly policies. However, some expressed concerns about barking dogs disturbing the peace.
Based on 680 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025