Mathews Arm Campground

For Virginians yearning to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mathews Arm Campground offers an authentic and accessible escape. Nestled within the spectacular Shenandoah National Park, this northernmost campground on Skyline Drive provides a more rustic and intimate camping experience compared to some of the park's larger, more amenity-rich sites. It’s a place where the sounds of nature, the scent of pine, and the starry night sky become your primary companions, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize tranquility and direct access to hiking trails.

Mathews Arm Campground is a beloved spot for many locals, particularly those from Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, due to its convenient location and its commitment to a more traditional camping atmosphere. While it embraces a simpler approach to amenities, it doesn't compromise on the essential comforts that make an outdoor stay enjoyable. Here, you’ll find well-maintained sites, reliable drinking water, and the quiet solitude that only a National Park setting can truly offer. It's a gateway to some of the park's most iconic natural features, inviting you to explore the stunning landscapes of our very own Shenandoah.

Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a family introducing children to the joys of camping, or simply someone looking for a peaceful respite from the demands of everyday life, Mathews Arm provides a wonderful base. It's a reminder of the natural treasures we have right here in Virginia, waiting to be explored.

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Mathews Arm Campground is strategically located at Skyline Drive, Rileyville, VA 22650, USA. More precisely, it is situated at Milepost 22.1 on Skyline Drive, making it the northernmost campground within Shenandoah National Park. This location offers excellent accessibility for Virginians, particularly those residing in the northern and central parts of the state, including the Northern Virginia suburbs, Winchester, and Front Royal. The drive along Skyline Drive itself is a scenic journey, providing breathtaking views and preparing you for the tranquility that awaits.

Accessing Mathews Arm is straightforward: simply enter Shenandoah National Park via the Front Royal entrance (northernmost entrance) or the Thornton Gap entrance. From the Front Royal entrance, it's a relatively short and scenic drive south on Skyline Drive to reach Milepost 22.1. This ease of access makes it a popular choice for weekend trips and last-minute getaways, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment.

While the address lists Rileyville, VA, it's important to remember that the campground is firmly within the boundaries of Shenandoah National Park, meaning park entrance fees apply. The elevation of Mathews Arm is approximately 2,714 feet, offering cooler temperatures than the valley floor during summer months. Its position within the park also means it's an excellent jumping-off point for numerous trails, including the popular Overall Run Falls hike, which directly departs from the campground. The well-maintained roads of Skyline Drive ensure a smooth journey to this serene mountain retreat, making it an easily accessible gem for any Virginia local.

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Mathews Arm Campground provides essential services designed to offer a comfortable, yet still rustic, camping experience within Shenandoah National Park. It focuses on core amenities to support a natural immersion, rather than extensive luxuries:

• Campsites: The campground offers 164 individual campsites suitable for both tents and RVs (up to 52 feet). Each site includes:
  • A designated space for a tent or RV.
  • A picnic table.
  • A fire ring with a grill grate.
  • A food storage locker (bear boxes) at many sites, particularly on the perimeter, which are essential for securing food from wildlife.
• Restrooms: Flush toilets are available in various loops throughout the campground, with good maintenance noted by campers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available near the registration area for RV and trailer wastewater disposal.
• No Hookups: Importantly, Mathews Arm Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual campsites. This means campers should be prepared for a "dry camping" or "boondocking" experience, bringing their own power sources if needed.
• No Showers or Laundry: There are no shower or laundry facilities directly at Mathews Arm. The closest coin-operated showers and laundry facilities within Shenandoah National Park are located approximately 30 miles south at Big Meadows Campground (Milepost 51).
• Firewood: Firewood is generally available for purchase, though it's often recommended to arrive early during peak season. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire grates.
• Trash and Recycling: Bins for trash disposal and recycling are provided.
• Information & Ranger Programs (Seasonal): An amphitheater is located in the northwest corner of the campground. During peak season, ranger-led programs may be offered, providing educational and entertaining sessions about the park's natural and cultural history.
• Camp Store (Nearby): While there is no store directly at Mathews Arm, Elkwallow Wayside, a small camp store offering basic hot food and supplies, is less than 3 miles south on Skyline Drive (Milepost 24).

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Mathews Arm Campground, despite its emphasis on a rustic experience, offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a cherished destination for campers in Virginia:

• Direct Access to Iconic Hiking Trails: One of its most significant highlights is the immediate access to several excellent hiking trails directly from the campground. Most notably, the Overall Run Falls hike (which leads to the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park at 93 feet) starts right from Mathews Arm. The Traces Trail, an easy, leisurely loop around the wooded campground, is also accessible, perfect for an evening stroll.
• Northernmost Shenandoah Campground: Being located at Milepost 22.1 on Skyline Drive, Mathews Arm is the closest campground to the park's Front Royal entrance. This makes it incredibly convenient for Virginians, especially those from Northern Virginia, minimizing drive time and maximizing time spent enjoying the park.
• Primitive and Private Sites (Generally): While some reviews mention sites can feel close in certain loops (like the C-loop), many campers appreciate the more primitive and private nature of the sites compared to other park campgrounds. The lack of hookups contributes to a quieter atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a true wilderness feel.
• Beautiful Wooded Setting: The campground is heavily wooded, providing ample shade and a true forest immersion. This dense tree cover contributes to privacy and a cooler environment, particularly appreciated during warmer months.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: As it's within a National Park, campers often have opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer. The presence of bear boxes underscores the rich natural habitat and the importance of responsible food storage.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite being primitive, reviews consistently mention the cleanliness and good condition of the restrooms and the availability of potable water, which are essential for a comfortable camping trip.
• Quiet Hours and Generator Rules: Strict quiet hours (10 PM to 6 AM) and limited generator use hours (8 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM, with extensions for heat in colder months) contribute to a peaceful environment, allowing campers to fully enjoy the natural sounds of the park.
• Reservation and First-Come, First-Served Options: Mathews Arm offers both reservable sites (up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov) and a portion of first-come, first-served sites, providing flexibility for different planning styles. This is particularly useful for spontaneous trips or for those who prefer to arrive without a reservation.

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As Mathews Arm Campground is part of Shenandoah National Park, a federal entity managed by the National Park Service, it does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The pricing for campsites is generally standardized, though it is subject to change. However, there are ways to experience the park and its campgrounds, including Mathews Arm, at a reduced cost or with specific benefits:

• National Park Passes:
  • America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass: This interagency annual pass covers entrance fees at all national parks and federal recreation sites. While it doesn't discount camping fees directly, it waives the park entrance fee for the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single vehicle, which is a significant saving for multiple visits or extended stays in Shenandoah National Park.
  • Senior Pass, Access Pass, Military Pass, etc.: Various free or discounted passes are available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are seniors, have permanent disabilities, or are active military members/veterans. These passes also cover the park entrance fee.
• Seasonal Availability and Pricing: The campground is typically open from May to October. Camping fees are generally around $30 per night for standard sites and $50 per night for group sites (which accommodate 7-25 people). These prices are set by the National Park Service.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While many sites are reservable, a portion of sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This isn't a "promotion" but offers flexibility, especially for spontaneous trips, though securing a site on busy weekends can be challenging.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, park entrance fees, and pass options, it is always best to consult the official Shenandoah National Park website (NPS.gov/shen) or Recreation.gov for reservations. While there won't be discount codes for individual nights at Mathews Arm, leveraging National Park Passes can significantly reduce the overall cost of enjoying our beautiful Virginia wilderness.

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For Virginians planning a camping trip to Mathews Arm Campground within Shenandoah National Park, direct contact is generally handled through the National Park Service or their official reservation platform. Please note that Mathews Arm Campground does not have a direct, dedicated phone number for individual site inquiries; rather, inquiries go through the park's general information line or the national reservation system.

• Address: Skyline Drive, Rileyville, VA 22650, USA (specifically, Milepost 22.1 on Skyline Drive within Shenandoah National Park)
• Shenandoah National Park Information Phone: (540) 999-3500 (This is the general park information line, which can provide details on conditions, rules, and general park operations.)
• Reservations: For booking a campsite at Mathews Arm (which can be done up to six months in advance):
  • Online: www.recreation.gov
  • Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (This is the national call center for federal recreation site reservations.)

It is always highly recommended to check the official National Park Service website for Shenandoah National Park (www.nps.gov/shen) before your visit. This site provides the most current information on operating seasons, road conditions (especially Skyline Drive closures during inclement weather), fees, regulations, and any alerts that might impact your camping experience. Given the rustic nature of the campground, preparing adequately with current information is key to an enjoyable stay.

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For Virginians seeking a true escape into the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mathews Arm Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and authentic outdoor experience. Its prime location within Shenandoah National Park, at the accessible northern end of Skyline Drive, makes it a convenient and relatively quick drive for a vast majority of the state's population, particularly those in Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. This means less time traveling and more time immersing oneself in the tranquility and beauty of one of our state's most cherished natural treasures.

What truly sets Mathews Arm apart for locals who appreciate genuine wilderness camping is its commitment to a rustic yet comfortable experience. The absence of electrical hookups fosters a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, allowing campers to truly unplug from modern distractions. Each site, with its picnic table, fire ring, and often a bear box, provides the essential comforts needed for a memorable outdoor stay. This back-to-basics approach appeals to those who value the sounds of nature over the hum of generators and bright lights.

Furthermore, the direct access to iconic hiking trails, notably the path to the magnificent Overall Run Falls, is an invaluable feature for Virginia's outdoor enthusiasts. Being able to step out of your tent and immediately embark on a breathtaking hike is a significant draw. The clean restrooms and readily available potable water, despite the primitive nature, ensure essential needs are met. For locals who prioritize serenity, stunning natural beauty, excellent hiking opportunities, and a truly immersive National Park camping experience, Mathews Arm Campground is an ideal choice. It offers an accessible and authentic slice of Virginia's wild and wonderful Shenandoah, perfect for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Mathews Arm Campground

Skyline Dr, Rileyville, VA 22650, USA