Mathews Arm Campground
4.40366 reviews3655 Highway 211 East, Luray, VA, 22835, USA
Mathews Arm Campground
$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$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$30.00 per night per site. $15.00 per night per site with an Access or Senior Pass. Group sites cost $75.00 per night. Additional Recreation.gov reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled within the emerald embrace of Shenandoah National Park, Mathews Arm Campground offers families an unforgettable escape into Virginia's mountain wilderness. Here, ancient hardwood forests create a natural cathedral where adventurers can explore miles of hiking trails leading to the magnificent Overall Run Falls—the park's highest cascade. As you navigate the legendary Skyline Drive, 75 breathtaking overlooks unveil panoramic vistas that stretch to the horizon, each turn revealing another masterpiece painted by nature herself.
The campground accommodates a mix of tent and RV campers, offering both reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceYour tent or RV sits mere steps from the legendary Appalachian Trail, where countless hikers have pursued their 2,190-mile dreams since 1937. Shenandoah National Park itself stands as a testament to conservation vision, preserving not just the pristine ecosystem of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, but also the stories of the mountain families who once called these hollows home. Stone walls and old foundations whisper tales of hardscrabble mountain life, while the restored landscape showcases nature's remarkable ability to reclaim and heal.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Mathews Arm into a different wonderland. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms carpeting the forest floor. Summer brings welcome shade beneath the towering canopy, where mountain breezes offer natural air conditioning at this elevated retreat. Autumn sets the mountains ablaze with legendary foliage displays of crimson, gold, and amber that draw visitors from around the world. Winter brings peaceful solitude as the campground closes, allowing nature to rest under blankets of snow.
ElevationPerched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mathews Arm rewards campers with naturally cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer's heat. From this lofty vantage point, neighboring peaks rise and fall like frozen waves, creating a sea of green ridges that fade into blue-hazed distances. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and oak, while morning mists drift through the valleys below, creating an ever-changing landscape that photographers dream about.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering oaks, hickories, and maples creates an intimate forest setting where sunlight filters through leaves in dancing patterns. The undulating terrain of ancient hills provides natural privacy between campsites while opening occasionally to reveal stunning valley views. The crown jewel remains Overall Run Falls, where water plunges 93 feet in a spectacular display of nature's power—the highest waterfall cascade in Shenandoah National Park. Wildlife thrives here too, with black bears, white-tailed deer, and over 200 bird species calling these woods home.
Geological RegionMathews Arm rests atop the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, the eastern rampart of the southern Appalachian chain that began forming over a billion years ago. From this geological throne, the land tumbles dramatically eastward to the Virginia Piedmont's gentle plains and westward to the pastoral Shenandoah Valley. The campground's position on these time-worn mountains—once as tall as the Himalayas—offers campers a chance to literally sleep on the backbone of the continent, surrounded by exposed granite outcrops and metamorphic rocks that tell Earth's ancient story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available. Some campsites include bear-proof food storage lockers for safety.
Sites SizeCampsites vary from small to medium size. Some are suitable for oversized tents and RVs, while others have rocky or uneven ground.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies; some sites are well-shaded and more secluded, while others are closely spaced with little natural screening, especially in the reservable loops.
Total Campsites166 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from bathrooms for privacy. Generators are prohibited in some zones for quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesGroup sites D165 and D166 are noted for spacious layouts. Individual sites with bear boxes are recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights during all seasons.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact limits per site are not detailed, but some reviews mention limits of 4 people and 2 tents.
Groups
Group sites allow for larger gatherings and are equipped with the same amenities as individual sites. Specific details about maximum capacity are unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with sites for tents and RVs. Some loops prohibit generators.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 30 to November 2 for reservations. Closed for booking from November 3 to April 29.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityMany sites are first-come, first-served. Reviews suggest availability fluctuates with weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees apply: $10 service fee for cancellations prior to arrival. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) forfeit the first night's rate. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Mathews Arm Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and nearby waterfall exploration. The campground’s proximity to Skyline Drive and its many overlooks makes it a good base for day trips.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails accessible directly from the campground, including the trail to Overall Run Falls, the highest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park at 93 feet. Trails range from moderate to difficult, and the Appalachian Trail is also nearby.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species can frequently be seen in the area. Visitors are reminded to store food securely to avoid attracting animals.Cultural and Educational Programs
An amphitheater onsite hosts ranger talks and educational programs, though the schedule varies.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Only USDA-approved kiln dried firewood is permitted.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include black bears, rocky terrain, and limited cellphone service. Rangers patrol for safety violations.
Active alertsNo specific alerts currently mentioned.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 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
Closest emergency services include hospitals and police in Luray, about 9 miles away. Rangers also patrol the campground regularly.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 30 to November 2
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available near the restrooms. Campers are advised to dispose of waste properly due to the presence of wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Overall Run Falls, the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from neighboring campers, lack of showers, and overcrowding during peak times.
HostHosts are available and provide assistance with firewood and other needs.
Campground Map
3655 Highway 211 East, Luray, VA, 22835, USA
Driving directionsFrom Washington, D.C. metro area, travel west on Interstate 66 to exit 43A. Take US Highway 29 South to Warrenton, Virginia, then take US Highway 211 west for 28 miles to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive Thornton Gap Entrance. Follow Skyline Drive north approximately 9 miles and turn left into Mathews Arm Campground. From Richmond, Virginia area, travel north toward Fredericksburg on Interstate 95 approximately 55 miles to exit 130B for Highway 3 and Culpeper, Virginia. Take Highway 3 approximately 33 miles west to US Highway 15/522 north. Continue on 522 North approximately 20 miles to Sperryville. Turn left onto US Highway 211 West and follow 8 miles to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, Thornton Gap Entrance. Follow Skyline Drive North approximately 9 miles and turn left into Mathews Arm Campground.
The campground is accessible via Skyline Drive and is a short drive from major highways such as Interstate 66 and US Highway 211. The roads are paved, and Skyline Drive provides a scenic approach. Seasonal closures may affect accessibility during winter months.Nearby places
Nearest city: Luray (approximately 9 miles south). Other reference points: Dickey Ridge Visitor Center 18 miles north, Harry F Byrd Sr. Visitor Center 29 miles south.
Nearby supplies
Elkwallow Wayside is located 2 miles south of the campground. Supplies include firewood, camping essentials, prepared food, beverages, and souvenirs.
Camper Reviews
4.4
366 reviews
Mathews Arm Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mathews Arm Campground generally receives positive reviews, with visitors praising its cleanliness, ranger staff, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some complaints include the lack of showers, closely spaced campsites, and occasional noise disturbances during busy weekends.
Review Summaries
Based on 366 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities; friendly and helpful rangers; excellent location for hiking and wildlife viewing; peaceful and quiet during off-peak times.
Based on 366 reviewsCommon Concerns
No shower facilities; some campsites are small, rocky, or uneven; closely spaced sites reduce privacy; noise disturbances during busy weekends; limited cell service.
Based on 366 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve sites in advance for peak seasons; bring your own firewood if arriving after hours; request sites with bear-proof lockers if needed. Avoid sites near restrooms for more privacy.
Based on 366 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Off-peak seasons (spring and fall) offer quieter and more private camping experiences, while summer weekends can be crowded and noisy. Fall is particularly popular for leaf-peeping.
Based on 366 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We stayed two nights and absolutely loved the hiking trails near the campground and the peaceful atmosphere." "Bathrooms were clean, but I wish there were showers available." "The rangers were...
Based on 366 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campers recommended sites D165 and D166 for more space and privacy. Sites near restrooms or in the reservable loops tend to be less private.
Based on 366 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites are available, but some commenters noted that descriptions of site layouts and terrain could be clearer to help individuals with mobility challenges plan better.
Based on 366 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, and many users appreciated being able to bring their dogs. Rangers enforce leash rules for safety.
Based on 366 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025