Situated on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, Shenandoah River State Park is a premiere riverside state park in the town of Bentonville, Virginia.
Just a 1.5 drive from Washington DC, Shenandoah River State Park is home to over 1,600 acres and 5.2 miles of shoreline. The grounds include picnic areas, multiple hiking trails, river access, and much more.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity while staying at Stay Blue Maple cabins, Shenandoah River State Park delivers. We’ve put together everything you need to know to have the ultimate adventure day at Shenandoah River State Park during your stay.
About Shenandoah River State Park
- Address: 350 Daughter of Stars Dr., Bentonville, VA
- Website: dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/shenandoah-river
- Entry Fee: dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/parkfees
Opened in June of 1999, Shenandoah River Raymond R. “Andy” Guest Jr. State Park has become a staple in the Northern Virginia region. It is perfectly positioned an hour from both the Shenandoah Valley and Berkeley Springs, WV, making it easy to get to from all directions.
Beyond the incredible river frontage, the state park offers views of both the Massanutten mountains to the West and the Shenandoah National Park to the East.
When you pull into the park’s entrance, you’ll find the Visitor’s Center, a riverfront picnic area with picnic tables, campsites and RV sites, restrooms, and a boat launch. There is direct river access where you can go kayaking, swimming, and more. From here, you have access to over 25 miles of trails, with options for mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, and more.
State Park Rules and Info
- The Visitor’s Center is open from 8 am to 4:30 pm, 365 days a year. They are closed for lunch from 12 to 12:30 pm.
- A Park Ranger is always on duty. Call the Ranger on Duty number, which is posted throughout the park, if you need the park ranger for any reason.
- The park is trash-free.
- WiFi can be accessed at the Visitor’s Center. Cell phone service is very spotty throughout the rest of the park.
- The parking lot entrance fee is $10 per car at the time of publication.
- The park is pet-friendly. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
Activities to Do at Shenandoah River State Park
Hike the State Park Trails
With over 25 miles of trails within the park, hiking is a must-do activity for those visiting Shenandoah River State Park.
The park has trails ranging from easy to difficult. There are trails as short as .2 miles and as long as 5.4 miles, giving hikers a range of options to choose from.
Redtail Ridge Trail is a scenic 3.7-mile loop that connects three different trails, making it perfect for those wanting a longer hike through the park. For incredible views, head to Culler’s Overlook. Bluebell Trail is another popular hike, offering views of blooming bluebells during the Spring season.
Shenandoah River State Park’s trail map is helpful for deciding which hike is right for you.
Float Down the Shenandoah River
The Shenandoah River is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of water activities.
Just a short drive from Shenandoah River State Park, Shenandoah River Outfitters is a local company in Luray offering guided river trips. Guests can choose kayaking, canoeing, rafting, or tubing to traverse the river. Whether you prefer a relaxing tubing trip or an adventure-packed rafting excursion, you’re in for beautiful views and an unforgettable day.
Each guided trip varies in length, age requirement, price, and time of day. You can find out more about each trip and book your excursion here.
Front Royal Outdoors is another popular guided trip company, so be sure to check them out when making your decision.
Boating the Shenandoah River
If boating is more your speed, Shenandoah River is the perfect place for you.
Multiple nearby boat ramps are offer river access. Some popular options include the Front Royal VDWR Boat Ramp, the Bentonville Boat Ramp, and the Inskeep Boat Ramp. Information on all nearby boat ramps can be found here.
If you plan to fish while out on the water, head to the Visitor’s Center first to get a fishing license. A 5-day fishing pass for out-of-state residents is $21.
Go Horseback Riding
If you’ve dreamed of horseback riding through the Northern Virginia mountains, Shenandoah River State Park is just the place.
Of the many trails within the park, seven of them are equestrian-friendly. Culler’s Trail, a multi-use trail accessible from the parking lot, is a popular trail for horseback riding. The trail takes you through the forest, open fields, and even along the river. You can access other well-loved trails such as River Ridge and Cassidy Point Trail from here.
The park’s parking lot has space to park horse trailers, making it easy to enjoy horseback riding here.
Nearby Attractions to Shenandoah River State Park
Luray Caverns
Address: 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA
Just a 20-minute drive from Shenandoah River State Park, Luray Caverns is one of Virginia’s most popular attractions.
Known for being the largest cavern in Eastern United States, people come from all over to experience these natural wonders. The walking tour takes you through Geology’s Hall of Fame, along well-lit paved pathways, observing stone formations, 10-foot ceilings, and cathedral-sized rooms as you go.
Luray Caverns is open 365 days/year. It’s the perfect family-friendly activity to add to your day at Shenandoah River State Park.
Fort Valley Ranch
Address: 299 S Fort Valley Rd, Fort Valley, VA
If you want to experience guided horseback trail rides, Fort Valley Ranch is just the place. A 30 minute drive from the park, Fort Valley Ranch is home to scenic trails throughout the Shenandoah mountains.
The ranch offers 1-1.5-hour guided rides around their scenic mountain property. They feature departure times from 9 am-3:30 pm, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Ages 6 and up are welcome to participate in the guided rides. Reservations are required, so be sure to head to their website to secure your spot.
Drive the Scenic Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive runs 105-miles along the Blue Ridge mountains, and it is the only public road through Shenandoah National Park. This scenic drive takes about three hours to travel in full.
Driving Skyline Drive gives you an up-close look at the beauty of Shenandoah National Park. It offers over 75 lookout spots, opportunities to see wildlife, miles of trails, and incredible natural beauty. Whether you come for the fall foliage or the beautiful spring blooms, the Skyline Drive is incredible for all seasons of the year.
Skyline Drive is open 24/7, unless there is inclement weather. The speed limit is only 35 mph, so take your time, roll the windows down, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you.
Stay Near Shenandoah River State Park
As you can see, Shenandoah River State Park has it all. With over 1,600 acres to roam, this Virginia state park is ideal for exploring the great outdoors.
Water activities are endless, and the shoreline is 5.2 miles long. From kayaking to boating to fishing, everyone can enjoy the river access at the park. Beyond the river, be sure to take advantage of the many miles of hiking trails. From mountain views to lush forest terrain, they don’t disappoint.
Staying at our cabin rentals gives you easy access to Shenandoah River State Park and its many nearby attractions. Head out to your adventures for the day before coming back to your Stay Blue Maple cabin for a cozy night in. We’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable trip!