Explore Shenandoah National Park.

Looking for the best resources to help plan your Shenandoah National Park vacation?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to this historic and beautiful park in the mountains of Virginia.

Whether you need to know where to hike with kids to the best places to camp near the park, you’ll find that information here.

I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Shenandoah at a glance

  • Covers 197,000 acres

  • Located in Virginia

  • Founded in 1926

  • Best known for Old Rag Trail and the Skyline Drive

  • Has campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants onsite

Start here.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Shenandoah National Park with Kids

If you only read one of my Shenandoah guides, make it this one.

This Shenandoah National Park with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from where to stay to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.

Complete Itineraries

All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.

1 Day in Shenandoah National Park Itinerary

When to Visit

Shenandoah National Park is open year round, but you’ll have completely different experiences depending on when you stop by.

Here’s a season-by-season comparison of the weather, hiking opportunities, crowd levels, and more.

The Best Time to Visit Shenandoah National Park

Kid-Friendly Activities

  • Short Kid Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah National Park

    Quick, easy hikes perfect for your family

    Read more

Camping

If you’re visiting Shenandoah National Park in the spring, summer, or fall, you can choose to stay inside the national park.

During the winter, or if you want full hook-ups and amenities like a pool and camp store, you can find some excellent campgrounds close to the national park.

We recommend the Shenandoah River State Park and the Luray RV Resort and Campground.

Shenandoah River State Park Campground: A Review

Shenandoah National Park Must Haves

  • GuideAlong Audio Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Shenandoah National Parks audio tour to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    Hiking is a must-do at Shenandoah as it allows you to truly get into the beauty of the park. Pack comfortable, sturdy footwear for your hikes here.

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy. These are great for year round use.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting Shenandoah in the summer.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to any of the U.S. national parks without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    Much of Shenandoah National Park doesn’t always have great cell reception, but you can always reach help with this unit.

  • Rental Car

    Shenandoah National Park doesn’t offer public transportation, so you’re going to need to rent a vehicle to get around the park and to all of your vacation activities.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports.

  • Travel Insurance

    Visiting the national parks can be the trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.

    Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.

Other Helpful Resources