Lewis Mountain Campground

For Virginians seeking a truly authentic and tranquil outdoor experience, Lewis Mountain Campground, nestled within the breathtaking Shenandoah National Park, offers an idyllic escape. This small, secluded campground is a hidden gem along the iconic Skyline Drive, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential conveniences. It’s a place where the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains meets the simple joys of camping, allowing you to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat to enjoy the crisp mountain air and starry nights, Lewis Mountain Campground promises an unforgettable adventure right here in our beloved Virginia.

Lewis Mountain Campground is perfectly situated at Skyline Drive, Stanardsville, VA 22973, USA, placing you directly in the heart of Shenandoah National Park. This prime location means you’re already immersed in the stunning natural beauty that Virginia is famous for. The campground is particularly convenient for those entering the park via the Swift Run Entrance Station (US 33 near Elkton), being about eight miles north on Skyline Drive from that point (at mile 57.5). Its location directly on Skyline Drive ensures easy access to the park's numerous scenic overlooks, which offer panoramic views that change with every turn. While seemingly remote, the campground is remarkably accessible, providing a sense of seclusion without being difficult to reach from major population centers in Virginia. The gentle winding roads of Skyline Drive lead you directly to this serene haven. Once you've arrived, you'll find yourself just 7 miles south of the Byrd Visitor Center and Big Meadows, where you can find additional facilities, ranger programs, and more extensive hiking opportunities. The surrounding area is a haven for wildlife, and you might spot deer, wild turkeys, or even a black bear during your stay. The beauty of its location means that every sunrise offers a spectacle and every sunset paints the sky with vibrant hues over the vast expanse of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a truly immersive experience for any local user.

Lewis Mountain Campground, while maintaining a rustic feel, provides a selection of services designed to enhance your camping experience and ensure your comfort.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: Lewis Mountain Campground offers 30 campsites, primarily suited for tents and small RVs. While hook-ups are not available, each site provides a solid pad for stability.
• Cabins for Rent: For those seeking a bit more comfort, the campground also features rustic cabins available for rent, offering a unique "glamping" option within the park. These cabins provide a cozy alternative to tent camping.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served system. This means you physically arrive at the campground to select and pay for your site, offering spontaneity for your trip. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
• Camp Host: A friendly and helpful camp host is available on-site to assist with any questions, payments, or local information, as highlighted by customer reviews.
• Camp Store: A nicely stocked camp store is located on-site, offering essential camping supplies, firewood (USDA-certified to prevent spread of emerald ash borer), ice, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Coin-Operated Showers: Clean, coin-operated showers are available, providing the convenience of a warm rinse after a day of hiking and exploration.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry facilities are also provided for guests, making longer stays more manageable.
• Flush Toilets: The campground features well-maintained flush toilet facilities for convenience.
• Potable Water: Community spigots are available throughout the campground for access to potable water.
• Slop Sink: A slop sink is available at the restroom area, convenient for doing dishes.
• Generator Hours: Generators are permitted during specific hours (8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; extended to 9 p.m. from October 15 through season end for heating), but are prohibited in designated “generator-free” sites.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Lewis Mountain Campground but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pet waste must be properly disposed of in bear-proof receptacles.

Lewis Mountain Campground distinguishes itself with several features and highlights that make it a cherished destination for local Virginians seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

• Secluded and Small: As the smallest campground in Shenandoah National Park, Lewis Mountain offers a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger park campgrounds. This seclusion is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
• Prime Location on Skyline Drive: Its direct access to Skyline Drive means scenic drives and overlooks are just steps away, offering unparalleled access to the park's beauty.
• Stunning Sunrise Views: Many sites, particularly those with a clear eastern exposure, provide spectacular views of the sunrise over the mountains, a truly memorable experience.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and cozy campfires under the stars.
• Proximity to Hiking Trails: The campground is near many of Shenandoah National Park's extensive 500-plus miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. There’s also a convenient 1-mile loop trail directly accessible from the campground, great for a quick stroll or a refreshing morning walk.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being within Shenandoah National Park, the campground offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with deer, turkeys, and occasionally black bears in the area.
• Historical Significance: Lewis Mountain was historically significant as the first desegregated public accommodation in a national park, offering a unique layer of historical depth to your visit.
• Shady and Green Environment: The campground is known for its densely canopied grounds, dominated by a second-growth oak-hickory forest, providing ample shade and a lush green environment, particularly pleasant during warmer months.
• Limited Connectivity: While some might see it as a drawback, the limited Wi-Fi and cell phone reception are often considered a highlight by those looking for a true digital detox and a chance to fully immerse themselves in nature.

Lewis Mountain Campground, being part of Shenandoah National Park, does not typically offer direct promotions or special offers in the way a private campground might. Its pricing and policies are set by the National Park Service. However, visitors can take advantage of various national park passes and entrance fee programs that can make visits more affordable, especially for frequent park-goers or specific groups.

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass: This annual pass covers entrance fees to all U.S. National Park Sites and over 2,000 federal recreation fee sites for an entire year. It covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites.
• Annual Pass: For the general public.
• Senior Pass: Available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or over. This can be an annual or lifetime pass.
• Access Pass: A free, lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.
• Military Pass: Free annual passes for active duty military members and their dependents.
• Every Kid Outdoors Pass: A free annual pass for all U.S. 4th graders and their families.
• Volunteer Pass: Available to individuals who accrue 250 volunteer hours at federal recreation sites.

While these passes cover the park entrance fee, campsite fees are separate. It is always recommended to check the official National Park Service website for Shenandoah National Park or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on fees, passes, and any specific discounts that may apply.

For all inquiries, assistance, or to learn more about Lewis Mountain Campground, you can use the following contact information:

Address: Skyline Drive, Stanardsville, VA 22973, USA

Phone: (540) 999-3500

Mobile Phone: +1 540-999-3500

Note: For information regarding campsite availability, especially on weekends, you can opt in to their alert system by texting SHENCAMP to 888777 for twice-daily updates.

For Virginians, Lewis Mountain Campground offers a quintessential Shenandoah National Park experience that is both accessible and deeply rewarding. Its first-come, first-served policy, while requiring a bit of planning, adds to the spontaneity of a true outdoor adventure, perfect for a last-minute weekend escape. The campground’s smaller size ensures a more peaceful and intimate setting, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquility of the mountains. With essential amenities like clean restrooms, coin-operated showers, and a well-stocked camp store, it strikes a perfect balance between rustic camping and comfortable convenience. The direct access to Skyline Drive and a myriad of hiking trails means that breathtaking views and invigorating outdoor activities are always at your fingertips. For those looking to truly unplug and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains without traveling far from home, Lewis Mountain Campground is an ideal local choice. It's a place where you can wake up to stunning sunrises, spend your days exploring pristine wilderness, and unwind by a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars—all within our very own Shenandoah National Park.

Lewis Mountain Campground

Skyline Dr, Stanardsville, VA 22973, USA