Mathews Arm Campground

Mathews Arm is a developed, wooded campground in Shenandoah's northern district, with 165 sites for tents and RVs. It's the park's closest campground to the Front Royal entrance, so it works well for a first night or for exploring the north end. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table; none has electric or water hookups.

Traces Trail makes an easy 1.7-mile loop around the campground, a good leg-stretcher without getting back in the car. Trails also lead from this area toward Overall Run Falls and Hogback Overlook, but those are longer outings, not campsite strolls.

This is a basic campground with seasonal potable water and flush toilets. There are no showers, laundry, camp store, cell reception, internet, or utility hookups. Trash and recycling, food-storage lockers, and a seasonal dump station are listed among its facilities.

There is no food service or store in camp. Elkwallow Wayside, about two miles away, has food service and camping supplies. It's a handy nearby option for a meal or basic supplies.

The campground is wooded, but privacy and quiet vary from site to site. Some spots feel tucked under trees; others sit closer to neighbors or loop traffic, and busy weekends can feel lively. Expect a developed campground rather than a secluded backcountry camp.