How much does camping cost at Elizabeth Furnace?

Camping fees at Elizabeth Furnace range from $10-$20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Elizabeth Furnace first-come first-served or reservation?

Elizabeth Furnace accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Elizabeth Furnace?

Elizabeth Furnace is open May 6, 2025 to October 31, 2025.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Elizabeth Furnace?

Yes, Elizabeth Furnace has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Elizabeth Furnace have?

Elizabeth Furnace has 50 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Elizabeth Furnace?

Yes, pets are allowed at Elizabeth Furnace. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Elizabeth Furnace?

Elizabeth Furnace offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Elizabeth Furnace?

Popular activities at Elizabeth Furnace include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Elizabeth Furnace

Q: Can I have a campfire at Elizabeth Furnace?

Fire policies at Elizabeth Furnace: Campfires are permitted; fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Fire pits are provided at campsites.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.63

112 reviews

Family Friendly

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Virginia#1 Camping Near Shenandoah#3 Summer Camping Virginia#3 +11 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

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Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Open from May 6, 202...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Open from May 6, 202...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Official Website

Get Directions

Elizabeth Furnace

$10.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$10 during non-peak season, $20 during peak season when water systems are operational. Cash or checks are required.

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(540) 984-4101

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What Campers Say

4.63

Top-Rated

Based on 112 reviews

120 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousfriendlysites

Some mention

noise

"Overall, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground is praised for its cleanliness, family-friendly environment, and accessibility. While some reviewers noted the lack of cell service as a downside, others appreciated the opportunity to disconnect."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Elizabeth Furnace

38.9247, -78.3311

Nearby places

Strasburg (approximately 6.5 miles away), Front Royal (approximately 11 miles away), Riverton (15 miles away).

Nearby supplies

Riverton (15 miles away) offers stores such as Walmart, Target, and Lowes for camping and outdoor supplies.

Driving directionsFrom I-81: Take exit 296 and turn east, on VA 55 for 1.4 miles. In center of Strasburg (traffic light), turn left to remain on VA 55. After 5.0 miles, turn right onto SR 678 in small community of Waterlick. The recreation area will be on your left in about 3.5 miles. There are three entrances, about a half mile apart: Entrance to the group campground appears first, followed by the entrance to the day use area, and finally the entrance to the campground. From I-66: Take Exit 6 (Front Royal) and proceed south on SR 340/522 for 1.3 miles until you come to a stoplight. Turn right onto VA 55 West for 5 miles to the small community of Waterlick. Turn left onto SR 678 and go approximately 6 miles. Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground will be on your left.

The campground is easily accessible from paved roads. However, nearby areas such as Bear Wallow require dirt road access.

Best Time to Camp at Elizabeth Furnace

Summer is the most popular season. Daytime highs typically reach the mid-70s to upper-80s °F (24–31 °C), with nights cooling to the 50s–60s °F (10–18 °C). The creek is warmest and best for swimming from late June through August. Showers and the water pump operate seasonally, usually May through October. Weekends in July and August get crowded. Weekdays or shoulder seasons offer quieter stays.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 18% in VA

Peak season for swimming, fishing, trails and family activities; reviewers note busiest, lively summers.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 6, 2025 to October 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 6, 2025 to October 31, 2025 for peak season. First-come, first-served season operates November 1 to December 31.

About Elizabeth Furnace

Elizabeth Furnace sits along Passage Creek in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, about seven miles from Fort Valley in the Shenandoah Valley. The campground has 50 sites for tents, RVs, and groups, with fees ranging from $10 to $20 per night. Facilities include flush toilets, showers (seasonal), a dump station, and a hand pump for potable water. There's no cell service at the campground itself.

Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. It does not offer cabins or glamping options.

Historical Significance

The Pig Iron and Charcoal Trail interprets the site's 19th-century iron-making history. Elizabeth Furnace operated in the 1800s, converting ore into iron. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the industrial process and the workers who ran the furnace. Ruins and some restored structures remain visible.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the most popular season. Daytime highs typically reach the mid-70s to upper-80s °F (24–31 °C), with nights cooling to the 50s–60s °F (10–18 °C). The creek is warmest and best for swimming from late June through August. Showers and the water pump operate seasonally, usually May through October. Weekends in July and August get crowded. Weekdays or shoulder seasons offer quieter stays.

ElevationCradled within a peaceful valley where mountain ridges rise protectively on all sides, the campground offers a perfect blend of shelter and accessibility. This valley setting creates a natural amphitheater that captures cool breezes and the soothing sounds of flowing water, while maintaining easy access to both creekside activities and mountain trail adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryPassage Creek runs through the campground at 820 feet elevation, joining the North Fork Shenandoah River nearby. Appalachian hardwoods and mixed pine-hardwood forests surround the sites, creating shade and a buffer from the road in most areas. The creek offers swimming holes and fishing spots. Limestone formations shape the surrounding ridges and valleys, a result of tectonic activity that built these mountains. Spring brings wildflowers to the forest floor, and bird activity picks up at dawn and dusk.

Geological RegionPositioned within the magnificent George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, the campground occupies a special place where Passage Creek joins its journey to the North Fork Shenandoah River. This remarkable Shenandoah Valley location showcases millions of years of geological history, where ancient limestone formations meet the vibrant ecosystems of Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests. The surrounding ridges and valleys tell the story of tectonic forces that shaped these mountains, creating the dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity that define this treasured region of Virginia.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in allowed from arrival on site.

Check-out

Not stated

Stay Limit

Not explicitly stated

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not mentioned

Groups

Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people and feature 13 tent pads, a large fire pit with built-in benches, and smaller fire pits. These sites lack running water but have access to a pit toilet. Reviews recommend bringing adequate water for drinking and washing.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has paved and unpaved loops. Sites include tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Trees surround most sites, providing decent privacy. A large, clean bathhouse serves the campground. Some sites close to the road hear passing traffic.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and the Recreation.gov mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served available from June 21, 2025 to June 22, 2025 outside of standard reservation periods.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed prior to the arrival date for a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Scan and Pay reservations are non-refundable.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible campsites and restrooms, with paved roads and pathways for ease of movement. Accessible vault and flush toilets enhance usability for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, featuring large tent pads and ample room for parking. One user mentioned, "Large sites with a large clean bath house," adding to the convenience.

PrivacyThe campsites are described as mostly secluded and surrounded by trees, offering a decent level of privacy. However, some users noted that the sites near the road experience minor noise from passing cars.

Total Campsites50 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsites near Passage Creek are ideal for families and those looking for scenic views. Site #6 is mentioned as being next to the river.

Need help booking Elizabeth Furnace?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Elizabeth Furnace offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground is family-friendly and features both relaxing and educational opportunities.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Swimming

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife and the lack of cell service. Passage Creek may pose water safety risks.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted; fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Fire pits are provided at campsites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Noise should be minimized from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesFort Valley Road is within proximity to emergency services; specific facilities not mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated along Passage Creek, which is seasonally stocked with trout. Campsites near the creek allow for swimming, sunning, and fishing.

Camp HostVolunteer hosts are available to assist campers. Hosts Mark and Cathy received praise for their kindness and knowledge.

Weather at Elizabeth Furnace

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.6

112 reviews

Top-Rated

Elizabeth Furnace is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Elizabeth Furnace Family Campground is praised for its cleanliness, family-friendly environment, and accessibility. While some reviewers noted the lack of cell service as a downside, others appreciated the opportunity to disconnect.

Review Summaries

Based on 112 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, friendly hosts, family-oriented atmosphere, spacious campsites, and access to a variety of outdoor activities were commonly mentioned positive aspects.

Based on 112 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users criticized the lack of cell service, noise levels during busy periods, and occasional enforcement of rules by campground hosts as overly strict.

Based on 112 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring cash or checks for payment as credit cards are not accepted. Firewood must be brought from outside the campground. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a quieter experience.

Based on 112 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during summer and fall, with more crowds and family activities. In winter, the campground is quieter but lacks flush toilets and showers.

Based on 112 reviews

Camper Quotes

"EF is super nice - right on Passage Creek - there is a beach area for sunning/swimming." "The Volunteer Hosts @ EF, Mark and Cathy, are SUPER AWESOME." "Great place to take the family camping."

Based on 112 reviews