Plan Your Visit

Visitors to Shenandoah National Park come to experience wilderness, enjoy time with friends and family, breathe fresh mountain air, and learn about the history and nature of this special place. Plan your visit to Shenandoah and make the most of your adventure.

 

Know Before You Go

1. Drive safely. Skyline Drive is a winding, narrow road. Stopping on the drive to view wildlife and speeding are both dangerous activities.
2. The Park can get busy during weekends, holidays, and the fall. Parking for popular trails be limited and campgrounds will fill up. Try to reserve camping ahead of time and plan for alternatives just in case.
3. Backcountry camping requires special preparation and is not an appropriate alternative to a developed campground on short notice.
4. Cell phone service is unpredictable at best. Let family or friends know ahead of time where you are going and when you plan on getting back.
5. If you are hiking, prepare! Make sure you have a map, enough water and snacks, and know that many of our trails start at a higher elevation (so you have to come back up).
6. Follow these guidelines for wildlife viewing and photography.
7. Practice bear safety such as maintaining a safe distance (at least 50 yards), properly storing food, and traveling in groups.
8. Ticks are common in Shenandoah National Park. Preventative measures such as using repellent, wearing longer clothing, and checking yourself and your gear after hiking can reduce your likelihood of being the next meal for a tick.
9. The park is open year round, but the hours of many Park facilities vary seasonally. Check the our operating hours before you plan your stops.
10. Always practice Leave No Trace.