Camping

Developed and primitive camping options are available at Shenandoah National Park. There are four developed campgrounds within the park: Mathews Arm (at milepost 22.1), Big Meadows (at milepost 51.2), Lewis Mountain (at milepost 57.5), and Loft Mountain (at milepost 79.5). All four campgrounds open for the season between late March and early May, then close for the winter between late October and early November. You can make reservations ahead of time (and it is recommended for weekend and peak-period stays) at [Recreation.gov](http://www.recreation.gov). Each campground has some first-come, first-served sites, although these tend to be occupied quickly in peak season and on weekends. Most of Shenandoah National Park is open to backcountry camping; a free permit is required and available at the park's visitor centers. There are no reservations or designated campsites for backcountry camping in Shenandoah other than along the Appalachian Trail, where there are shelters and overflow areas.