Top Photo: Trail marker on the Appalachian Trail.
We scored a very nice site overlooking the mountains in Shenandoah National Park. Plan to ride out the Memorial Day Holiday here.
Loft Mountain - National Park Campground, near Elkton, VA: Site #A60 (155 RV sites total) - This site has: water nearby. Campground Notes: flush toilets • showers • dump station available • trails from campground • trails nearby • 3,370’ elevation. May 19th - 26th.
Overall Experience:
At Loft Mountain, we were fortunate to have a campsite that overlooked the Appalachian Trail. From our campsite, we cooked hamburgers and offered them to hikers. We ended up with a ten-person thru-hiker trail magic party. They were quite excited about fresh fruit, burgers, and chips. A few of the lucky earlier ones got beer and ice cream too!!
It's fun to come across a bear while hiking.
Local Flavor – Area Businesses We Enjoyed & Recommend
• Blue Mountain Brewery Very enjoyable patio dining area with scenic views.
Loft Mountain: A Gateway to Adventure in Shenandoah National Park
Within the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia lies Shenandoah National Park, a natural oasis that has captivated visitors for generations. At the heart of this expansive wilderness lies Loft Mountain, a captivating destination that offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic splendor.
Loft Mountain Campground and Facilities
Loft Mountain is home to one of Shenandoah's most popular campgrounds, providing a comfortable base for exploring the park's diverse landscapes. The campground features over 200 sites, as well as a camp store, amphitheater, and the Loft Mountain Wayside, which offers food and other amenities. The nearby Frazier Discovery Trail, a 1.2-mile loop, provides an easy and scenic hike for visitors to enjoy.
Panoramic Vistas and Hiking Trails
Rising above the surrounding terrain, Loft Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the park's natural beauty. Hikers can embark on a variety of trails that wind through the area, including the Loft Mountain Loop, which offers stunning vistas and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Damnation II loop in the southern part of the park is a renowned multi-day backpacking route that takes trekkers through the rugged terrain surrounding Loft Mountain.
A Rich History and Ecological Significance
Shenandoah National Park, of which Loft Mountain is a part, has a fascinating history. The area was once home to thriving communities of mountain farmers and loggers, who were later displaced when the park was established in the 1930s. Today, the park is recognized for its ecological significance, with diverse habitats supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful camping getaway, a challenging hike, or the opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's rich natural and cultural history, Loft Mountain and Shenandoah National Park offer an unparalleled outdoor experience. With its stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained facilities, this remarkable destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
