Last Updated: May 2026
We stayed in Luray, Virginia to visit the famous Luray Caverns, Skyline Drive, and Shenandoah National Park. The site was spectacular but nature had some very specific plans for our stay — including liquid manure from the adjacent farm that effectively kept us indoors for two days.
Luray KOA
An amazing site with many limitations. On the eastern side, we had views of a mountain and wheat field; to the south, a large open grass area. Large sites with good water pressure and pedestal voltage. No cable, no local antenna channels, and marginal Verizon bars. Wifi download speed was 1.2 Mbps — barely enough to load a page, let alone stream Netflix. The pool was still closed for the season. It rained the first day, the winds blew hard the second, and the adjacent farm sprayed liquid manure on the third. The stench was horrendous and didn’t dissipate for two full days. We never used the beautiful patio or the fire pit. It was a good opportunity to catch up on trip planning. They did have a huge fenced dog park that Jake loved — and the cows from the neighboring farm came right to the fence to check him out. He was fascinated by them.
Luray Caverns
The caverns are impressive — especially considering they are privately owned. Discovered in 1878, the one-hour guided tour covers about a mile of paved path through an incredible diversity of cave formations. Not quite Carlsbad Caverns or Mammoth Cave in scale, but remarkably close. A must-see if you’re in the area.
Hawksbill Greenway
A multi-use path that meanders along Hawksbill Creek through the center of Luray. No standout shops or restaurants along the way, but still a pleasant walk along the water.
Shenandoah National Park
Skyline Drive is beautiful. At about 3,200 feet elevation it was still early spring here. Skyline Drive runs the entire 105-mile length of Shenandoah National Park. We came across a Redbud tree in full bloom.
We had an enjoyable hike to a waterfall. Jake decided that a rock about one foot by eight inches did not belong in the stream, so he spent five solid minutes removing it. Crazy dog.
Visitor Information
Luray Caverns is privately owned and charges admission. Tours run daily year-round; book tickets in advance at peak season as they fill up. The caverns are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Shenandoah National Park charges an entrance fee; the annual America the Beautiful pass covers it. Skyline Drive has a 35-mph speed limit and frequent wildlife crossings — deer, bear, and wild turkey are regularly spotted. The Hawksbill Greenway is a free, flat, paved trail through downtown Luray, great for a morning walk.
Practical Tips
Luray KOA has exceptional views but plan for wind and farm smells — there’s nothing between you and the adjacent agricultural land. Bring your own internet if you need it for work. The Luray Caverns tour is about a mile of walking at 54°F regardless of outside temperature — bring a layer. Skyline Drive is most dramatic in fall foliage season (late October), but spring Redbud blooms from late April through early May are worth the visit on their own. Budget a full day for the caverns plus Skyline Drive.
