Virginia / Page County / Shenandoah National Park

Mathews Arm Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens April 30, 2025. Reservations available up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov, with additional sites released 2 weeks and 4 days prior to arrival.

About

Mathews Arm Campground occupies a secluded forested setting in the northern reaches of Shenandoah National Park, making it the closest campground for visitors entering from Front Royal. Located at mile 22.1 on the scenic Skyline Drive, the campground features 165 sites spread across wooded terrain, offering a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served options. All sites include a picnic table, fire ring, and space for tents or RVs. The campground serves as an excellent launching point for backcountry adventures, with a moderately difficult trail leading to Overall Run Falls. At 93 feet, this cascade holds the distinction of being Shenandoah's tallest waterfall, with views extending across the Shenandoah Valley to Massanutten Mountain. The park's extensive trail network, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, provides endless opportunities for hikers of all skill levels. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and abundant bird species common throughout the area. Elkwallow Wayside sits just two miles south, offering camping supplies, food service, and basic provisions during operating season. The campground accommodates RVs with pull-through and deep back-in sites suitable for most rigs and tow vehicles, though hookups are not available. Four ADA-accessible sites ensure the campground serves visitors of all abilities.

Directions

From Washington D.C., take I-66 west 62 miles to Front Royal. Exit onto Route 340 South and follow signs for Shenandoah National Park. Enter Skyline Drive and travel south 22.1 miles to Mathews Arm Campground entrance on the left. From Richmond, take I-95 north to exit 130B (Highway 3 west toward Culpeper), continue to US 15/522 north to Sperryville, then west on US 211 to Thornton Gap entrance. Follow Skyline Drive north 9 miles to campground.

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