Discover The Best Hiking Trails for RV Campers in Shenandoah National Park
TL;DR: Shenandoah National Park offers diverse trails for RV campers. Highlights include:
- Old Rag Mountain: Challenging 9.2-mile hike with rock scrambles.
- Dark Hollow Falls: Easy 1.4-mile hike to a stunning waterfall.
- Hawksbill Mountain: Moderate 2.9-mile hike to the park's highest peak.
- Stony Man Trail: Easy 1.6-mile hike with great views.
- Whiteoak Canyon: 4.6 to 7.3-mile hike featuring multiple waterfalls.
Relax post-hike at nearby Harvest Hosts locations like Mountain Run Winery and Farm Fresh Hops & Comfort Bites Brewery.
The Best Hiking Trails for RV Campers in Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, located along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, offers a diverse range of hiking trails perfect for RV campers. This stunning park is known for its beautiful vistas, cascading waterfalls, and rich wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a relaxing walk, Shenandoah has a trail for you. Here are some of the best hiking trails for RV campers in Shenandoah National Park.
For those planning a visit, it's helpful to know about RV-specific amenities and tips. Check out our comprehensive guide on RV camping in Virginia . If you’re planning on boondocking in Virginia, don’t miss our insights on boondocking essentials .
1. Old Rag Mountain
Old Rag Mountain is one of the most popular and challenging hikes in Shenandoah National Park. It offers stunning panoramic views but requires some rock scrambling.
Trail Description: This 9.2-mile circuit hike is strenuous and includes a rock scramble near the summit. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views from the top. It’s best suited for experienced hikers.
2. Dark Hollow Falls
For a shorter, easier hike that still offers stunning scenery, Dark Hollow Falls is a great choice. This trail is perfect for families and casual hikers.
Trail Description: The 1.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls. The trail is relatively short but does have some steep sections. It’s a great spot for photography and picnicking.
3. Hawksbill Mountain
Hawksbill Mountain is the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park, offering spectacular views without a strenuous hike.
Trail Description: There are several routes to the summit, but the most popular is the 2.9-mile round-trip hike from the Upper Hawksbill Trailhead. The trail is moderate in difficulty and provides panoramic views from the summit.
4. Stony Man Trail
Stony Man Trail is another popular hike that offers stunning views with a relatively easy trail.
Trail Description: This 1.6-mile round-trip hike is suitable for all skill levels and offers excellent views of the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. It’s a great choice for a quick hike with rewarding vistas.
5. Whiteoak Canyon
Whiteoak Canyon features a series of beautiful waterfalls and is perfect for those who enjoy hiking near water.
Trail Description: The trail to the lower falls is about 4.6 miles round-trip and is moderately difficult. For a more challenging hike, you can continue to the upper falls, making it a 7.3-mile round trip. The trail is scenic with multiple waterfalls along the way.
Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations
After a day of exploring Shenandoah’s magnificent trails, RV campers can relax at one of these nearby Harvest Hosts locations:
Farm Fresh Hops & Comfort Bites Brewery
Brewery
Host Description: Situated in Middletown, Virginia, this craft brewery provides a unique experience with great beers and a scenic setting. It’s an ideal spot for RV campers looking to relax and enjoy a local brew. Think of it not just as a stop, but as a delightful escape into a world where the hops and herbs that grace your glass are as fresh as the morning dew because they’re grown right on the premises of the charming Sunflower Cottage Herb Farm.
Historic Front Royal Downtown Gift Shop
Attraction
Host Description: Located in Front Royal, Virginia, this historic downtown gift shop offers a variety of amenities, such as free WiFi, making it a great base for exploring Shenandoah National Park and immersing yourself in the local history.
Historic Farmstead
Farm
Host Description: Located in Middletown, Virginia, this historic farm that was once the grounds of civil war battles. This farm is steeped in history but also close to Interstate 81 and offers a cozy fire pit for RVers to enjoy during their stay.
Conclusion
Shenandoah National Park offers an array of hiking opportunities that cater to all levels of RV campers. From the challenging ascent of Old Rag Mountain to the serene beauty of Dark Hollow Falls, there’s a trail for everyone and an overnight stop for you to rest your head after a long day’s hike. Be sure to check trail conditions and availability before you go, and enjoy your adventures in one of Virginia's most iconic national parks.
Planning on storing your RV after your Shenandoah adventure? Don’t miss our ultimate guide to storing your RV in the off-season to keep it in top shape for your next trip. For more information on RV camping and hiking in Virginia, visit our Virginia RV camping guide. Happy hiking!
