Backcountry Camping

Shenandoah National Park has 196,000 acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. With some preparation, you can discover a world beyond where the pavement ends.
 
 
 

Get Prepared

  • Talk to us. One of the best ways to get started on a backcountry adventure is by speaking with a backcountry Ranger. Call (540) 999-3500x3720 to talk with the backcountry office. This line is staffed on Monday and Thursday, but messages left other days will be answered as soon as possible.
  • Know the rules. Carefully review Shenandoah's backcountry rules and regulations and have your trip itinerary planned before obtaining a backcountry camping permit.
  • Spend time planning. Before obtaining a backcountry permit spend some time reviewing the backcountry planning page. Evaluate your groups outdoor skill level, expectations, and plan an itinerary ahead of time.
  • Bring proper equipment. The right equipment will help minimize your impact on resources, help ensure you don't violate park regulations, and help keep yourself safe. This includes approved bear resistant food canisters or an adequate amount of rope to properly hang food away from wildlife, a backpacking stove and proper fuel to cook food or to boil water (campfires are not permitted), a small trowel to dig a cathole to bury human waste, a water container and a good water filter, water purifier, or purification tablets to make water safe to drink, and use pre-packaged food or zip-lock bags.
  • Get a map. A good topographic map is essential for a backcountry trip. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club and the Shenandoah National Park Association sell topographic maps of Shenandoah National Park.
  • Stay safe. Review our backcountry safety page, know the water sources near you, and be aware of wildlife viewing safety.
  • Is backcountry camping for you? You must be physically and mentally prepared to hike yourself and all of your gear at least a half mile, set up camp, deal with the elements, and follow Leave No Trace. If you have concerns about backcountry camping, our campgrounds have nice tent sites available and there are various camping options in the nearby George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
 

Get Planning

Last updated: November 20, 2017

Contact the Park

Mailing Address:

Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East
Luray, VA 22835

Phone:

(540) 999-3500

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