Shenandoah National Park

[S-n-L]

Hello Folks,

I'm working on planning a visit to Shenandoah National Park, coming from Great Smokey Mountain National Park on I-81 N, end of April/early May. Since we are in a 45' motor home we will not be driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway or on Skyline Drive. We'll explore those with the toad.

I am trying to get a handle on the best area to stay for about a week and use the toad to visit the park. We love to go hiking, take scenic drives, go to visitor centers and visit the lodges in the national parks.

Which entrance would make the most sense for us to stay near? Any campground recommendations? Favorite hikes to recommend. Any must see things?

Thanks in advance.
Leslie

[MtnGuy]

Staying near 1 of the central entrance stations would give you better access to several sections of the park, versus either end would only get you easy access to just 1 section.

Regretfully there are no campgrounds within about 10 miles of the Swift Run Gap entrance.

If you have kids, then Jellystone might be your best bet near Luray. Easy access to both the central and northern sections of the park.

If no kids, then check our Outlanders River Camp near Luray. It is a fairly new campground near the base of the Massanutten Mountains, with mountain views and on a stretch of the Shenandoah River.

The southern section of the park is accessible by a scenic drive south on Rt 340 to Rt 33 to the Swift Run Gap entrance station.

You can also take a short drive over the Massanutten to check out the New Market battlefields, or check out the Luray Caverns.

[Daryl molly]

Hi: I would suggest COE parks (corp of engineer). Although, the 45' length might be a problem. Sherando Lake is rated very high but again length might prevent you staying there. I already have reservations and I would not wait to long; most places fill up fast that time of year!

[empty_nest]

We'll be headed there also, his summer.

[S-n-L]

Thank you all for the information you provided. It will surely help me with making plans.

Leslie