River’s Edge Campground, located in Bergton, is preparing to welcome its first guests during its soft opening this weekend. The newest camping destination in Rockingham County features a check-in station, camp store, and a black lab standing guard on the porch of a brand-new cabin adorned with yellow flowers along the gravel driveway.
The North Fork Shenandoah River, running swiftly from recent rains, flows past 22 primitive tent sites, three cabins, and nearly 50 RV sites situated between open fields and tall sycamore trees.
A family of geese glides across one of two stocked fishing ponds across from Capon Run, which campers can access via a gravel walking and biking trail.
As the finishing touches are being made to the property, visitors can feel a sense of excitement and accomplishment among those working on the modern camping destination, designed with a traditional state park style in mind.
Owners Miranda and Steven Williamson have deep roots in Rockingham County and fond memories of family camping trips. Miranda, who spent eight years in a government financing position, decided it was time for a change. “The whole thing honestly started as a joke,” she admitted. The couple purchased a camper and soon discovered their favorite sites were booked solid. Their solution? Buy a small piece of land for their camper, which quickly evolved into something bigger.
After closing on the 258-acre property in August 2021, construction began a year later, following a lengthy process of obtaining necessary special use permits from the county. “There was a lot of red tape we had to get through,” explained Miranda. Her father, Dale Wenger, managed each engineering project, with family members and close friends contributing to establishing the new campground.
Transforming the property, initially a hayfield and untouched wooded land, involved significant projects such as an entrance off of Bergton Road, two modern bathhouses, a slab bridge, and over three miles of ditches holding electric and water lines. Miranda personally crafted each wooden sign on the property, while her father’s blueprints for a unique yurt served as the campground’s “lighthouse.” “I hope it’s a place campers can come to relax and get a break with nature,” said Miranda.
The campground’s slogan, “Find your freedom,” reflects the passion and commitment that drove Miranda and Steven to create Rivers Edge Campground. They hope future campers will find their sense of freedom and relaxation during their stays.
To officially kick off their camping season, Rivers Edge Campground will hold an open house event on Saturday, May 20. The event will feature food trucks, vendors, a petting zoo, and activities for the kids provided by the Bergton Fire Department. It will offer a great opportunity for both campers and community members to experience the new campground and enjoy the outdoors.
Tent sites, RV sites, and cabin bookings can be made through their website, campriversedgeva.com.
Featured image from River’s Edge Campground.
Isn’t it exciting that the River’s Edge Campground offers a serene setting near the North Fork Shenandoah River? Picture cozy evenings by the campfire, creating lasting memories in this natural oasis!