George Washington & Jefferson NF

National Forest campgrounds in the Shenandoah Valley

The George Washington National Forest wraps the western and eastern edges of the Valley. Its campgrounds are quieter, cheaper, and more primitive than the National Park options — most have vault toilets, no hookups, and small reservable loops alongside dispersed first-come sites.

8 verified campgrounds

What to know

  • Most USFS sites are bookable on Recreation.gov, with a handful first-come
  • Vault toilets are standard; potable water varies — fill up in town
  • Dispersed camping is allowed in most of the GW & Jefferson NF — pack out everything