Big Meadows Campground
Campground · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- $75.00
- Type
- Campground
- Season
- December 1 to March 25
- Sites
- 220 total · 220 reservable · 0 first come
- Reservations
- recreation.gov
- Coordinates
- 38.5280, -78.4369
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
2026 Closing Date: November 29 Big Meadows Campground (mile 51.2) is centrally-located in Shenandoah National Park, providing easy access to many of the most popular destinations in the Park, including Big Meadows, Dark Hollow Falls, and Byrd Visitor Center. All sites include a place for a tent or RV, a fire ring, and a picnic table. All sites at Big Meadows Campground are by reservation only.
From the managing agency.Official page
Is Big Meadows Campground free?
No. Big Meadows Campground charges $75.00. 220 of its sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
Can I bring an RV to Big Meadows Campground?
Big Meadows Campground has 220 sites on record. 220 sites are reservable and 0 are first come.
When is Big Meadows Campground open?
The season on record runs December 1 to March 25. Dates move with weather and with the managing office, so check before a shoulder-season trip.
How do I get to Big Meadows Campground?
Via Thornton Gap Entrance Station (Luray, Route 211): upon entering Skyline Drive, make your way south to mile 51.2 (mile markers can be seen on the side of the Skyline Drive). Follow the signs to Big Meadows Campground, on your right. Via Swift Run Entrance Station (Elkton, Route 33): head north on the Drive to mile 51.2 (mile markers can be seen on the side of the Skyline Drive). Follow the signs to Big Meadows Campground, on your left.
What is the weather like at Big Meadows Campground?
Shenandoah National Park has four very distinct seasons. Spring typically brings mild temperatures, rain, and wildflowers. Summer brings lush green forests, but can be hot and very humid. Fall follows with cooler temperatures and spectacular fall foliage. Winter can bring snow and ice. The mountain is usually 10°F cooler than the valley below. Always check the forecast, dress in layers, and be prepared.
What are the rules at Big Meadows Campground?
Starting April 9, there will be intermittent power outages in the Big Meadows area for three weeks due to repairs. Campground showers and bathrooms will be closed Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. while work is being done. Stays are limited to 30 days. Checkout time is noon. Be sure to clip your camping pass to your site post to show occupancy. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Generators may be used from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. From opening until April 14, and October 15 through the end of the season, generator hours are extended to 9 p.m. for the purpose of generating heat. Generator use is prohibited in sites designated as “generator-free” and in group sites. Bear, deer, raccoons, and skunks are year-round residents of Shenandoah. Food, garbage, equipment used to prepare or store food, and all scented items must be kept in a locked vehicle or storage locker when not being actively used. It is illegal to feed or disturb wildlife.
Nearby
- Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (VA)0.1 mi
- Lewis Mountain Campground6.8 mi
- Camp Roosevelt14.8 mi
- Boone Shelter15.4 mi
- High Cliff Canoe Campground16.9 mi
- MATHEWS ARM CAMPGROUND17.7 mi
- Hazard Mill Canoe Camp21.1 mi
- Hazard Mill Campground21.4 mi
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceSource data is agency published. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
