Big Meadows Campground sits along Skyline Drive in Stanley, Virginia, within the bounds of Shenandoah National Park. With a 4.7-star rating drawn from more than 1,150 reviews, it has become a well-known base for campers exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors frequently mention the campground's natural setting, its proximity to the visitor center, and the services available on-site. This review gathers publicly available information and visitor feedback to provide an overview of what the campground offers.
Big Meadows Campground at a Glance
Located at Skyline Drive in Stanley, VA 22851, Big Meadows Campground is categorized as a campground within Shenandoah National Park. The property is managed under the National Park Service, and its official website is listed as nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm. For direct inquiries, the phone number +1 540-999-3500 is available. The campground is positioned along the famous Skyline Drive, making it accessible for those traveling through the park. Visitor reviews often highlight the campground's central location within the park, which allows for exploring both directions of the drive. The site offers a range of amenities, including public toilets, and reviewers mention additional services such as coin-operated showers and laundry facilities. The campground is known for being one of the largest and most accommodating in Shenandoah, according to visitor accounts.
What Do Visitors Like About Big Meadows Campground?
Overall, visitor feedback for Big Meadows Campground is highly positive, with many reviewers praising the cleanliness of the facilities, the friendliness of staff, and the scenic natural surroundings. Out of 14 reviews identified, the majority are 5-star, with one 2-star review offering a more critical perspective. Reviewers often describe the campground as beautiful, quiet, and well-maintained. Common themes include encounters with wildlife such as deer, the convenience of nearby amenities like the visitor center and camp store, and the availability of showers and laundry. Some reviewers note that campsites can be close together, which some see as a drawback while others appreciate the sense of community and safety. The single critical review mentioned noise from neighboring sites, cleanliness issues, and suggested staying in a hotel instead. Despite this, the overwhelming sentiment is that Big Meadows is a great place for camping, particularly for families and those looking to explore Shenandoah National Park.
1. Cleanliness and Well-Maintained Facilities
Many reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the campground, especially the bathrooms and showers. Ruby Cornwell described the bathrooms as spacious with no smell, calling them amazing. Hogram Tassle noted that the bathrooms were so clean it didn't feel like being in the wilderness. Megan Divens mentioned that bathrooms were clean, and Justin Stepp said the campsites were very clean with easy-to-use bear boxes. Melinda Hawkins noted that the showers and bathrooms were very well maintained. These recurring comments suggest that maintenance is a strong point for many visitors.
2. Wildlife Encounters and Natural Setting
Several reviewers share experiences with wildlife, particularly deer. Ruby Cornwell recalled stepping out of the bathroom at 6am to find two deer within touching distance. Megan Divens mentioned lots of deer and fawn around the campsite throughout their visit. Massive Loop noted that deer frequently roam through the campground eating crab apples. Wesley Johnson praised the pretty views of the Appalachian Mountains. The natural setting and wildlife sightings are frequently cited as highlights of staying at Big Meadows.
3. Campsite Spacing and Privacy
Opinions on campsite spacing vary. Ruby Cornwell felt the campsites were a little close for her liking but appreciated the safety in numbers. Joan Miller similarly noted that sites are a little close but considered it a great campground for families and first-time campers. Anna Andreyeva found a secluded spot in Loop A after #80 and felt it was more private and peaceful. Justin Stepp mentioned that some sites were too close to facilities for his taste and advised paying attention when booking. Too Easy criticized the tent sites as too close, leading to noise from neighbors. This theme shows that site selection can significantly impact the experience.
4. Amenities and Services
Reviewers frequently mention the availability of showers, laundry, and a camp store. Ruby Cornwell noted that showers are coin-operated, with two change machines outside, costing $5 for 10 minutes, and laundry services available. Daniel mentioned showers for purchase and a gas station at the entrance next to the visitor center. Justin Stepp purchased ice, drinks, and firewood at the camp store. Renee KH mentioned firewood for purchase and a dump station not too far away. Jorge Izquierdo highlighted showers, laundry, and a restaurant and bar at the lodge a 10-minute walk away. These amenities contribute to a comfortable camping experience.
5. Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Activities
Many reviewers describe Big Meadows as great for families. Joan Miller called it a great campground for families and inexperienced campers. Joseph Armetta noted it was very family-oriented with lots of kids running around but not too loud. Andrew Kassouf chose it for their family's first tent camping trip and had a blast. Megan Divens used the paved walking trails with a stroller and their 4-month-old. Jorge Izquierdo said it was great for families, couples, and solo hikers. The campground's layout and amenities seem to cater well to families with children.
6. Proximity to Attractions and Hiking
The campground's location within Shenandoah National Park makes it a convenient base for exploring. Wesley Johnson recommended hikes like Dark Hollow Falls, Lewis Spring Falls, and part of the Appalachian Trail, and noted that national park stamps can be obtained at the Big Meadows and Dickey Ridge visitor centers. Justin Stepp described a 4-5 hour hike starting near the amphitheater, connecting to Rose River Falls, Dark Hollow Falls, and the Nature Story Trail. Massive Loop mentioned that the outer E loop sits next to the Appalachian Trail with a five-mile loop to Lewis Falls. Renee KH noted the camp is in the middle of the park, great for touring Skyline Drive in both directions.