Watermelon Park & RV Campground

Watermelon Park & RV Campground is a historic, family-owned outdoor destination that has been a staple of the Virginia camping community since 1939. Nestled along the banks of the scenic Shenandoah River in Clarke County, this 27-acre park offers a unique blend of high-energy river adventures and peaceful woodland relaxation. For generations, Virginia families have traveled to this tucked-away gem in Berryville to rediscover nature and each other. The park is famously situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for anyone looking to escape the urban sprawl of Northern Virginia or the surrounding tri-state area.

The atmosphere at Watermelon Park is characterized by its laid-back, community-centric vibe. Known for hosting legendary bluegrass festivals like the Watermelon Park Fest, the grounds have a deep cultural connection to the region's musical and agricultural roots. Whether you are visiting for a day of tubing on the river or settling in for a week-long RV stay, the park provides an environment that balances modern convenience with the raw beauty of a "Virginia Scenic River." It is a place where the morning fog rolls off the water and the evenings are filled with the sounds of crackling campfires and local wildlife.

Located at 3322 Locke's Mill Rd, Berryville, VA 22611, USA, Watermelon Park is highly accessible yet feels remarkably remote. For local Virginia residents, the park is a convenient drive from Winchester, Leesburg, and the greater Washington D.C. metro area. The primary route into the park involves scenic country roads that wind through the heart of Clarke County. Visitors should be aware that the final approach via Locke's Mill Road is a narrow, historic lane; while it adds to the "hidden" feel of the destination, those navigating large motorhomes or towing trailers should exercise caution and maintain a slow speed to ensure safe passage.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by expansive green spaces and direct access to the water. The park is designed to accommodate various levels of outdoor experience, from seasoned RV travelers to day-trippers looking for a picnic spot. Accessibility is a priority here, with the facility offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms, ensuring that the beauty of the Shenandoah is available to all members of the community. The park's layout is relatively level, making it easy for families with strollers or those with limited mobility to navigate between the campsites and the riverbank.

Watermelon Park & RV Campground provides a comprehensive suite of onsite services designed to make your stay comfortable and hassle-free. The management team prides itself on offering essential utilities alongside specialized river services. The services offered include:

• Full-service RV camping with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups available at most sites.
• Potable water hookups providing clean and cold running water directly to your RV site.
• Onsite sanitation station and dump station for convenient waste management.
• Professional river shuttle services for tubing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures.
• Equipment rentals for river excursions, including various sizes of inner tubes with handles and cooler tubes.
• Flexible payment options accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for all camping and activity fees.
• Managed Wi-Fi access available near the main office and hub areas.
• Onsite market and supply store offering firewood, ice, and basic camping essentials.

The highlights of Watermelon Park are centered around its world-class river access and its reputation as a family-friendly playground. There is a wealth of activities designed to keep visitors of all ages engaged with the outdoors. Key features and highlights include:

• Premier River Tubing: A major local attraction where guests can float for 2 to 3 hours down the calm stretches of the Shenandoah.
• Kid-Friendly Playground: A dedicated area featuring swings, slides, and space for children to play safely.
• Sports Facilities: Onsite basketball and volleyball courts for those looking for active recreation.
• Extensive Riverfront: Miles of shoreline perfect for fishing (especially for catfish), swimming, or simply launching a kayak.
• Picnic Infrastructure: Numerous picnic tables and designated areas for large group picnics and company outings.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: Access to kid-friendly hikes that allow for wildlife viewing, including the frequent sight of deer and bald eagles.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: Dogs are welcome to join the family adventure, provided they remain leashed.
• Clean Modern Amenities: Well-maintained public restrooms and hot showers to refresh after a day on the water.

For those planning a visit, it is always recommended to call ahead or check online for seasonal hours and tubing conditions, as river activities are weather-dependent. Whether you are looking for nightly, monthly, or annual rates, the staff is available to help you find the perfect spot along the riverbank.

Address: 3322 Locke's Mill Rd, Berryville, VA 22611, USA

Phone: (540) 955-4803

Email: info@watermelonpark.com

What makes Watermelon Park & RV Campground worth choosing is its incredible longevity and commitment to the "old-school" camping experience. In an era where many campgrounds are becoming overly commercialized, Watermelon Park maintains its authentic character as a family-run operation. The ability to pull your RV right up to the water’s edge and fall asleep to the sound of the river is a rare luxury that this park provides at some of the most competitive rates in the tri-state area.

The park is particularly worth choosing for group adventures. Their ability to accommodate large parties—up to 30 people or more—for tubing trips makes it a top choice for reunions, church groups, and corporate team-building events. The shuttle service, often praised by visitors for its friendly drivers, takes the logistical stress out of river trips, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience. Additionally, the park's dual nature as both a quiet retreat and a vibrant event venue means you can tailor your visit to your preferences; choose a quiet midweek stay for total peace, or visit during a festival weekend for a lively community celebration of Virginia music and culture. With its clean facilities, stunning mountain views, and unparalleled river access, Watermelon Park remains one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.

Would you like me to help you draft a checklist of what to pack for a tubing trip at Watermelon Park, or perhaps provide more details on the local attractions in Berryville for your stay?