Loft Mountain Campground

For those of us in Virginia who are drawn to the majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the unparalleled beauty of Shenandoah National Park, Loft Mountain Campground offers an ideal base for exploration and relaxation. As the largest campground within the park, it provides a unique blend of accessibility to iconic trails and breathtaking views, all while offering more developed amenities than primitive sites. Whether you're a seasoned hiker eager to tackle a portion of the Appalachian Trail, a family looking for a scenic retreat, or simply someone who appreciates abundant wildlife and stunning vistas, Loft Mountain Campground presents an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Virginia's most cherished natural treasures.

Loft Mountain Campground is prominently located at Milepost 79.5 on the famous Skyline Drive, within Shenandoah National Park, near Crozet, VA 22932, USA. This placement in the southern section of the park makes it particularly convenient for Virginians approaching from the southern entrance at Rockfish Gap (I-64/US-250 intersection). Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic byway that traverses the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the sole access road, offering sweeping views and numerous overlooks along the way. While the address lists Crozet, VA, the campground is deep within the park, meaning you will pay an entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park to access Skyline Drive and the campground. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through lush forests and past stunning viewpoints. Guests should be aware that some sites within the campground can be "very hilly," as noted by a reviewer, requiring careful leveling for RVs or strategic tent placement. However, this varied terrain also contributes to the unique character and offers diverse camping experiences. Its location atop Big Flat Mountain provides exceptional views to both the east and west, making it a truly picturesque and accessible mountain retreat for Virginia locals.

Loft Mountain Campground, managed by the National Park Service, offers a range of services designed to enhance the camping experience within a beautiful natural setting, balancing comfort with preservation.

• Campsites: The campground is the largest in Shenandoah National Park, featuring 207 sites that accommodate both tents and RVs (motorhomes, pop-ups, 5th-wheels). There are also specific tent-only sites available.
• Site Amenities: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill grate, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires (firewood is available for purchase at the nearby camp store).
• Flush Toilets: Clean and well-maintained flush toilet facilities are available throughout the campground. Reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of these restrooms.
• Potable Water: Potable (drinking) water spigots are located throughout the campground for easy access.
• Pay Showers: While not directly at every campsite, pay showers are available at the Loft Mountain Campstore, located just a short distance (approx. 0.5 miles) from the campground. These are coin-operated.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry facilities are also available at the Loft Mountain Campstore.
• Camp Store / Wayside: The Loft Mountain Wayside, directly across Skyline Drive from the campground, offers a camp store with sundries, souvenirs, limited food service, and camping essentials like ice and firewood.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs and trailers, though no electric or water hookups are provided at individual campsites.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Designated bins are available for trash and recycling within the campground.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is located within the campground, often used for seasonal ranger-led programs and presentations.

While the campground does not offer individual site hookups for electricity, water, or sewer, the availability of central potable water, flush toilets, and nearby showers and laundry facilities makes it a comfortable option for both tent and RV campers seeking a traditional, yet well-supported, outdoor experience.

Loft Mountain Campground is renowned for several key features and highlights that consistently make it a favorite among campers visiting Shenandoah National Park.

• Spectacular Views: Situated atop Big Flat Mountain, the campground offers outstanding panoramic views to both the east and west, providing incredible opportunities for sunrise and sunset gazing. The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains are truly a sight to behold.
• Abundant Wildlife: The park is teeming with wildlife, and Loft Mountain Campground is no exception. Reviewers frequently mention seeing numerous deer at dusk, as well as wild turkeys, bears, and a variety of bird species, offering fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities right from your campsite.
• Direct Access to Hiking Trails: The campground is a hiker's paradise, with direct access to several trails, including a portion of the iconic Appalachian Trail which encircles the campground. Trails leading to the Big Run Wilderness area and two waterfalls are also nearby, catering to various hiking preferences and skill levels. The easy-going Frazier Discovery Trail also loops around the campground, perfect for families or a leisurely stroll.
• Mix of Reservable and First-Come, First-Served Sites: This flexibility allows for both pre-planned trips (reservations recommended, especially during peak season) and spontaneous adventures, though arriving early for first-come sites is often advised.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: A consistent highlight in reviews is the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the overall well-kept nature of the campground, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.
• Proximity to Skyline Drive Attractions: Being right off Milepost 79.5 on Skyline Drive means easy access to numerous scenic overlooks, visitor centers (like Loft Mountain Wayside), and other park amenities and points of interest.
• Seasonal Operating Schedule: Open from late spring through fall (typically late April to early November), the campground is available during the most pleasant weather conditions for exploring the park.

While some sites can be "very hilly," requiring extra effort to level an RV or find a flat tent spot, the trade-off is often enhanced views and a more unique camping experience that many find adds to the charm.

Loft Mountain Campground, as a facility within Shenandoah National Park and operated by the National Park Service, offers value through its park entrance fees and nightly campsite rates rather than traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. However, there are ways that visitors, especially Virginians, can manage costs and take advantage of specific programs.

• Annual Park Passes: For frequent visitors to Shenandoah National Park or other national parks, purchasing an annual park pass (such as the Shenandoah National Park Annual Pass or the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass) can save money on entrance fees. These passes typically cover the vehicle entrance fee to the park, which is separate from the campground fee.
• Senior and Access Passes: U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or over can purchase a Senior Pass, which offers a 50% discount on standard amenity fees at campgrounds. A free Access Pass is available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities, also providing a 50% discount on camping.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: Loft Mountain offers a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. While not a discount, the availability of first-come sites allows for flexibility for those who arrive without reservations, potentially finding an available spot without prior booking.
• Off-Peak Season Camping: Camping in the shoulder seasons (late spring or late fall) might offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds, often at the same base rate, providing value through a higher quality of experience.

Campsite fees are typically around $30 per night for a standard non-electric site. Any changes to fees or specific programs would be communicated via the official National Park Service website for Shenandoah National Park or Recreation.gov. It's always best to check these official sources for the most current information.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Loft Mountain Campground and Shenandoah National Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: Crozet, VA 22932, USA (located at Milepost 79.5 on Skyline Drive within Shenandoah National Park)

Phone: (434) 823-4675 (This is a general park information line often used for the southern district or concessions.)

Mobile Phone: +1 434-823-4675

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use Recreation.gov or call their reservation line, as the park phone number may not handle direct bookings.

For specific operational updates, opening/closing dates, alerts, or details about the camp store and shower facilities, it is advisable to check the official National Park Service website for Shenandoah National Park or GoShenandoah.com.

For Virginians seeking an immersive mountain escape, Loft Mountain Campground within Shenandoah National Park is an exceptional choice. Its prime location directly on Skyline Drive offers not only convenient access but also continuous breathtaking views, providing an immediate sense of grandeur. As the park's largest campground, it strikes a perfect balance, offering the essential comforts of clean flush toilets and nearby pay showers/laundry, while still immersing campers in a rich natural environment teeming with wildlife. Locals will particularly appreciate the direct access to numerous hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail, making it an ideal base for exploring the park's renowned landscapes and waterfalls. While some sites might present a leveling challenge for RVs, the payoff in scenic beauty and a secluded atmosphere is well worth it. For those desiring a comfortable yet authentic national park camping experience, where the stars are bright, the deer roam freely, and adventure awaits just steps from your tent or RV, Loft Mountain Campground offers a truly unforgettable and easily accessible retreat in the heart of our beautiful Old Dominion.

Loft Mountain Campground

Crozet, VA 22932, USA