Immortalized in song, the Shenandoah Valley has a place in the hearts of millions, including countless people who have never gazed upon its rolling waters. Discover the magical place which inspired that timeless nostalgic ode by visiting Shenandoah National Park. Stay in a cabin, live a simpler life, and marvel and the beauty of Appalachia’s mountains. Cell service may be scant, but a connection to nature is all you’ll need.
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Shenandoah National Park covers the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The northern tip of the park is just 70 miles from the nation’s capital. From there, following the course of the river, the park stretches over 100 miles in a southwesterly direction. With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains standing tall on both sides, the park has no shortage of scenic vistas or fun activities.
The majesty does not end at the park’s borders. A number of memorable attractions are to be found in the immediate vicinity of Shenandoah National Park. These include the east coast’s largest cave system at Luray Caverns, state parks wineries, and historic towns.
With many a fine hike, the Shenandoah is an excellent getaway for outdoorsy types. But there are also plenty of worthwhile excursions best done by car. Whatever your dream trip entails, it pays to plan ahead and follow expert advice.
Read on to learn about these vacation cabin rentals near Shenandoah National Park.
Pet-Friendly Log Cabin$275/nightly avg
Enjoy modern comforts in this 19th century Shenandoah cabin. Take a rest by the fire pit after going for a hike. It’s hard to resist going for a walk in the woods when a national park is accessible from a trail just 100 yards from your front door. Sit by a pond surrounded by woods and see where your mind’s wanderings take you. Such is the pace of life at this humble cabin. An excellent option for a couple or family, the cabin has a queen bedroom on the ground floor and a loft with four twin beds above.
Horse Farm East Of Old Rag$700/nightly avg
Like many other scenic spots throughout the country, the area around Shenandoah National Park attracts tourists while also supporting a local economy of farmers and ranchers. Chestnut Oak Farm is one such business, a 90-acre ranch now hosting guests in a cabin on the property. This lodging option is a beautiful one, complemented by splendid views and magnificent animals. Enjoy on-property hiking trails and proximity to the park. In addition to the main building, visitors are free to stay in the treehouse. No ramshackle construction, it is a beautiful structure with bunk beds and a kitchenette.
Clifftop Cabin Above Shenandoah River$235/nightly avg
A romantic’s dream, the Shenandoah Valley has no shortage of cabins perfectly suited for couples. This cabin with river access is doubtless one of the best. It is cozy, rustic, fully furnished, and the location cannot be beat. A boat launch is to be found 2 miles from the cabin, leading to all kinds of water opportunities. The property is a few miles from the park and one of the area’s most scenic drives, Skyline Drive, offering fabulous mountain views in addition to the river. A sofa in the living room folds out, making the cabin fit for up to four guests.
Dog-Friendly Cabin$221/nightly avg
After reaching the end of a long gravel road, the prying eyes of neighbors will be the last thing on your mind. The watchful gaze of owls and the bright twinkling of the stars above give proof that this pet-friendly cabin is “out there” in nature under Old Rag’s Shadow. That said, wineries and grocery stores are less than half an hour away for when time comes to make a supply run. The home has two cozy bedrooms, creek access, and a glorious swimming hole. The park’s most popular hikes are a short drive away.
Cresta Blava$491/nightly avg
Just west of the park, Cresta Blava is a newly built mountain cabin south of Luray in the small town of Stanley, VA. Enjoy views of the valley below from two decks or the tall windows in the two-story living room. Given its recent construction, all the property’s appliances and furniture are brand new. But the views are timeless, and the unfinished woodwork makes the home feel like the Appalachian cabin that it is. Each of the three bedrooms is furnished with a king-size bed and large television.
Contemporary Cabin On 30 Acres$278/nightly avg
Whether you’re peering down at the meadow or straining your eyes upwards to the mountains, look out the windows of this 21st-century cabin and you will know with certainty that you have come to the right place. Floor-to-ceiling windows help make sure you get the most out of this scenic location, as does the obvious proximity to Old Nag. The cabin has two bedrooms complete with soft linens and a lovely outdoor area furnished with a grill, large trellis, and fire pit, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Jewell Hollow Homestead$291/nightly avg
Though the property has been modernized and expanded over the years, this corner of the world has changed precious little since Jewell Hollow Homestead was settled in the 1800s. The cozy cabin is just 4 miles from the park’s entrance at Thornton Gap and sits next to a lovely stream-fed lake. Guests are welcome to fish or idle the hours away on the owner’s boat. The home has two living areas, a full kitchen, and three bedrooms (two upstairs and one on the main level).
Amazing Grace Chalet$294/nightly avg
Whether you come for fall foliage, winter snows, or summer sun, Amazing Grace will not disappoint. A large cabin sits on this 3-acre property near Thornton Gap, Luray Caverns, and the site of the New Market Battlefield and museum. The cabin is fitted with five large decks to observe the local wildlife, and satellite TV for when there is none to be seen. There is a master bedroom with an ensuite and jacuzzi bath, a loft area with three beds, and an upstairs bedroom fitted with a queen and twin.
Hawksbill Retreat Lodge$1,300/nightly avg
A great many occasions can bring big groups of people together (reunions, celebrations, and retreats, just to name a few), but a successful large-scale outing also needs a suitable venue. Whatever brings you together, the Hawksbill Retreat Lodge is an excellent place for big events. With easy access to Luray Caverns and the park, the 45-acre property is filled with and surrounded by fun opportunities. The cabin abounds with games from air hockey to billiards and board games. There are 10 bedrooms and enough room for up to 25 guests.
Smile Inn Over The River$204/nightly avg
This lovely river cabin above the South Fork of the Shenandoah River provides everything one could want from a rural retreat. Walk down the gentle slope that leads to over 400 feet of riverfront property. Enjoy the waters from the deck, relax in the riverside hammock or picnic table, or start up a fire in the pit. The cabin comes with a kayak and inflatables for those keen on floating for a spell. The master bedroom is on the ground floor, and a second room with two double beds is above. For a $30 fee, your dogs are most welcome to accompany you on your trip.
Log Cabin Near Lake Arrowhead$240/nightly avg
With appealing views of Stoneyman Overlook and verdant mountains, this simple log cabin minutes from Luray is a window into the wilds of Appalachia. Though modestly furnished, the stunning landscapes offer sufficient wonder to make this a grand vacation rental. Lake Arrowhead lies below and affords many opportunities for recreation. The cabin itself is a new construction and has, among other delightful touches, a six-person hot tub with in-built speakers.
Three Creeks Cabin$464/nightly avg
A comfortable cabin with five bedrooms, Three Creeks Cabin is a perfect spot for a family getaway. A handful of miles from the center of Shenandoah National Park, the home offers easy access to natural beauty. Reap the land’s most precious bounty by visiting one of the several wineries a short drive away. The home has a deck, pool table, and modern kitchen. There are three queen rooms, a king, and an upstairs room with two bunk beds.
To discover even more things to do around Shenandoah National Park, check out:
