Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park

Rapidan, Virginia

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Distance

4.5 miles

Elevation Gain

890 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jenn Gonzalez

Hike back to the 1929 to see a camp created by President Hoover deep within Shenandoah National Park and see many of the structures that are still standing.

For this hike park at the Milam Gap parking lot located at mile 52.8 on Skyline Drive. Once parked you will cross Skyline Drive to reach the trail. Hikers will follow the blue blazes along the trail and creek.

After you have crossed the creek twice you will come to a larger waterfall. At this point you will need to follow the yellow blazes to reach Rapidan Camp. The yellow blazed trail is the horse trail.

Once you reach the Rapidan Camp fire road you'll see the camp straight ahead. If you turn left onto the fire road and cross the bridge you will find a bathroom (enclosed outhouse) which is a nice bonus.

Walking into the camp you'll see what is left of the 1929 retreat built by and for President Hoover. A few structures and houses remain along with an outdoor fire pit. Take time to walk to The Prime Minister building and read through the display that talks about the history of the camp. There are places to sit and rest and enjoy a snack or a lunch.

Then retrace your route back to the Milam Gap parking lot.

Helpful Link: Shenandoah National Park Guide for Rapidan Camp

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Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park Reviews

Matthew Acord

Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park

05/27/22

Wonderful hike! My wife and I did this hike with our four girls ages 4months up to 8 years old. They did great and were able to complete the entire hike with a little help from my wife and I at the end. The camp itself is located in a beautiful setting. Very doable with children just be wary of the few stream crossings during higher water.

5.0

Explorer

Jess Fischer

Explorer

Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park

05/19/17

If you're a history nerd you'll love Camp Rapidan. If you love fly fishing this is also a great place to catch wild, native Brookies!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park

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Hike to Historical Rapidan Camp in Shenandoah National Park Reviews

Leave No Trace

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Hike to Naked Creek Falls

Big Meadows Loop

Lewis Falls via Lewis Spring

Dark Hollow Falls

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