Overview
Shenandoah National Park is one of the eastern USA's most visited national parks, drawing over 1 million people per year. The park offers 200,000 acres of forest, rocky peaks, and cascading waterfalls accessible via Skyline Drive, a 169-mile scenic road.
Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Camping
Five campgrounds operate May-late October with sites from $15/night. Big Meadows and Loft Mountain accept reservations; others are first-come, first-served.
Fees
Entrance fees ($15-$30) are valid for seven days with unlimited re-entry. Consider the $55 annual pass if visiting multiple national parks.
Food
Food options are limited to five locations with varying hours. Bring your own food for picnics and camping; only designated areas allow fires.
Safety
Black bears, venomous snakes, and disease-carrying ticks are present. Make noise in bear country, wear protective clothing for ticks, and never approach wildlife.
Transport
No public transportation exists in the park; you need a vehicle to access trailheads. Gas up before entering as services are limited inside the park.
Weather
Higher elevations are 6°C cooler than lowlands. Afternoon thunderstorms peak in September; snow and ice are common in winter at higher elevations.