Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground offers Virginians a quintessential outdoor experience in Fort Valley. This beloved campground provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Known for its rustic charm and stunning natural surroundings, Elizabeth Furnace is a prime destination for families, solo adventurers, and anyone seeking the peace and quiet of the Shenandoah Valley.

The allure of Elizabeth Furnace extends beyond its campsites. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, with remnants of an old iron furnace lending a unique historical context to your stay. Imagine spending your days exploring verdant trails, casting a line in a stocked trout stream, or simply relaxing by a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. This article will guide you through what makes Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground a must-visit for local outdoor enthusiasts, providing all the essential details for planning your next unforgettable trip.

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground is strategically located at 15618 Fort Valley Road, Fort Valley, VA 22652, USA. This address places it squarely within the beautiful George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, offering a truly immersive natural experience. For those traveling from various parts of Virginia, its position in Fort Valley makes it relatively accessible.

If you're coming from I-81, take exit 296 and head east on VA 55 for about 1.4 miles. In the center of Strasburg, at the traffic light, turn left to stay on VA 55. After approximately 5.0 miles, turn right onto SR 678 in the small community of Waterlick. The recreation area will be on your left in about 3.5 miles, with the campground being the third entrance. For those approaching from I-66, take Exit 6 (Front Royal) and proceed south on SR 340/522 for 1.3 miles to a stoplight. Turn right onto VA 55 West for 5 miles to Waterlick, then turn left onto SR 678 and continue for about 6 miles until you reach the campground on your left.

While the natural setting provides a welcome disconnection from urban life, it also means that cell service can be limited or nonexistent, as noted by past visitors. This is a key aspect for many who seek to truly unplug. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for some gravel or unpaved sections as you get closer, adding to the rustic adventure. The location offers a sense of seclusion while still being within a reasonable driving distance of towns like Strasburg and Front Royal for supplies.

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground provides a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable, albeit with a focus on rustic simplicity.

• Campsites: The campground offers approximately 32 campsites primarily for tent and RV camping, with a focus on non-electric sites. There are also two group campsites available for larger gatherings, which can accommodate up to 50 people.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each individual campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for cooking and enjoying a campfire.
• Water Access: A hand pump provides potable water year-round in the family campground. Visitors should note that there is no water at the group campground.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available year-round. Flush toilets and warm water showers are typically available seasonally, from late May to mid-October. (Customer reviews indicate showers may not always be open, especially outside peak season).
• Waste Disposal: Trash collection is available. There is also a dump station for RV campers.
• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are generally welcome, but must be kept on a leash.
• First-Come, First-Served: Individual campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are needed for these sites. This allows for spontaneous trips, though it's wise to arrive early during peak times.

The unique features and natural highlights of Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground are what truly draw campers to this tranquil spot.

• Passage Creek: The charming campground sits along Passage Creek, a picturesque tributary of the North Fork Shenandoah River. This creek is seasonally stocked with trout, offering excellent fishing opportunities for anglers.
• Historic Iron Furnace: The campground is named after the historic Elizabeth Furnace, an integral part of the region's iron-making history. Visitors can explore remnants of the furnace and learn about its past, including the Pig Iron and Charcoal trail.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: With access to numerous trails directly from the campground, hikers of all skill levels will find something to enjoy. Popular trails include those leading to Signal Knob and challenging routes on Massanutten Mountain, offering panoramic views of the valley.
• Mountain Biking: Certain trails are open to mountain biking, providing an adventurous way to explore the surrounding forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are home to diverse flora and fauna, including 40 species of trees, 60 species of mammals, and 200 species of birds, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife observation.
• Swinging Bridge and Historic Cabin: Enjoy a leisurely stroll across the scenic swinging bridge and view the historic cabin, adding to the area's charm.
• Peaceful Disconnection: A significant highlight for many visitors is the limited to no cell service, which encourages a true disconnection from digital distractions and a deeper immersion in nature.
• Year-Round Camping: The campground is open year-round, allowing for different camping experiences across the seasons, from lush summer greenery to vibrant fall foliage.

As a campground primarily managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground typically operates with standard fees rather than frequent promotional offers. However, visitors should be aware of potential discounts and pricing structures:

• America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass: Holders of these national passes may receive a 50% discount on the base campsite fee (does not apply to hookups, though Elizabeth Furnace sites are generally non-electric).
• Seasonal Pricing: Fees for campsites can vary by season. For instance, sites might be $10 per night with limited services during the off-season, and $20 per night when full water systems (flush toilets, showers) are running during the main season (typically May-October).
• Group Site Reservations: While individual sites are first-come, first-served, the group campsites require reservations through Recreation.gov and have their own fee structure (e.g., Site A for max 50 people at $55, Site B for max 25 people at $30).

It is always recommended to check the official George Washington and Jefferson National Forests website or Recreation.gov for the most current fee information and any operational updates.

For inquiries or more information about Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 15618 Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652, USA

Phone: (540) 984-4101 (Lee Ranger District Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 540-984-4101

Website: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is best to search for "Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area George Washington and Jefferson National Forests" on the U.S. Forest Service website (fs.usda.gov) or Recreation.gov.

For Virginians, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground stands out as an exceptional local gem for a multitude of reasons. Its accessible location in Fort Valley means that a rejuvenating escape into the mountains is never too far away, making it perfect for weekend trips or even mid-week getaways without the burden of long travel times. The ability to simply drive up and secure a first-come, first-served site offers a spontaneity that many larger, reservation-dependent campgrounds cannot.

What truly makes Elizabeth Furnace ideal for locals is its authentic, rustic camping experience blended with a wealth of outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to tackle challenging trails on Massanutten Mountain, a family looking to introduce children to the joys of fishing in Passage Creek, or simply someone yearning for the quiet contemplation that comes with being off-grid, this campground delivers. The opportunity to disconnect from cell service, as highlighted by many visitors, provides a rare chance for genuine relaxation and immersion in the natural world.

Beyond the natural beauty, the historical significance of the Elizabeth Furnace adds an educational and intriguing layer to your visit. It’s a chance to learn about Virginia's past while enjoying its present-day splendor. The friendly atmosphere, often noted by campers, ensures a welcoming environment for all. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a local treasure that offers a rich, diverse, and affordable outdoor adventure right in our own beautiful backyard, fostering a deeper connection with Virginia's natural and historical landscape.

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground

15618 Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA 22652, USA