Can you camp in Shenandoah National Park?
Yes. Shenandoah National Park operates five campgrounds along Skyline Drive: Mathews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, Loft Mountain, and Dundo (group-only). Four take reservations May–October via Recreation.gov; Lewis Mountain is the only first-come, first-served option in the park.
The five park campgrounds
Mathews Arm (Mile 22.1) is the northernmost. Big Meadows (Mile 51) is the largest and most popular — central location, ranger programs, lodge nearby. Lewis Mountain (Mile 57.5) is the smallest and first-come, first-served. Loft Mountain (Mile 79.5) is the southernmost and has the best ridge-top views. Dundo (Mile 83.7) is group-only.
No hookups anywhere in the park
None of the NPS campgrounds in Shenandoah have electric, water, or sewer hookups. RVs are welcome but must be self-contained. Showers and dump stations are available at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain.
When to book
Reservations open 6 months out on Recreation.gov. Foliage weekends (mid-October–early November) book within days. Summer weekends fill 2–3 months ahead. Weekdays are usually available within a week.