Open
— Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Peak season rates are $20 per night from May through October with flush toilets and showers available. Off-season rates are $10 per night with vault toilets and hand pump water available.
About
Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area offers a charming family campground experience along Passage Creek, a tributary of the North Fork Shenandoah River in George Washington National Forest. The campground features 32 first-come, first-served sites nestled in Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine forests, providing year-round camping with varying amenities by season. During peak season from May through October, campers enjoy flush toilets and showers; winter months offer vault toilets and a hand pump for water.
The recreation area provides rich historical and outdoor opportunities. Hikers can explore the Pig Iron and Charcoal interpretive trails to learn about the area's iron production history, or tackle the scenic route to Buzzard Rock for panoramic views. Anglers will find Passage Creek seasonally stocked with trout, offering excellent fishing from the banks or stream. The day use area features a swinging bridge leading to a historic cabin, open grassy picnic areas, and access to miles of forested trails.
The campground operates under a Scan & Pay system via the Recreation.gov app for on-site payment, or cash and checks at the iron ranger. Peak season rates are $20 per night, dropping to $10 during the off-season. A separate group campground with two reservable sites accommodates larger parties. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Elizabeth Furnace provides a peaceful base for exploring the George Washington National Forest's diverse ecosystems, home to 40 species of trees, 60 mammal species, and 200 bird species.
Directions
From I-81: Take exit 296 and turn east on VA 55 for 1.4 miles. In center of Strasburg at the traffic light, turn left to remain on VA 55. After 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. There are three entrances about a half mile apart: the group campground entrance appears first, followed by the day use area, and finally the family campground entrance. From I-66: Take Exit 6 (Front Royal) and proceed south on SR 340/522 for 1.3 miles until you come to a stoplight. Turn right onto VA 55 West for 5 miles to the small community of Waterlick. Turn left onto SR 678 and go approximately 6 miles. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground will be on your left.
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