Rapidan Camp/Camp Hoover (Rating: A)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

Description:
This is a circuit hike in the central section of Shenandoah National Park that features several peaks and Camp Rapidan (a.k.a. Camp Hoover), President Hoover's summer mountain retreat.

We will start the hike along the AT from the Milam Gap parking area, a half-mile past MP 52, on the west side of Skyline Drive. We will head south on the AT to the summit of Hazeltop Mountain, which provides a view of the Shenandoah Valley, and then continue south along the AT to Laurel Prong trail, and later the Cat Knob trail to Cat Knob, another peak. We'll then proceed to the Jones Mountain Trail and the Fork Mountain Fire Road up to Fork Mountain, where President Hoover & his guests used to hike to the fire watch tower, before reversing course down to the Fork Mountain Trail, returning to the Laurel Prong Trail, and descending to Camp Rapidan, where we will stop for lunch at Hoover's Summer Camp . We will then begin our return to the parking lot via the Mill Prong trail, crossing to look at Big Rock Falls.

Bring adequate water/hydration (at least 2 liters), snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas, tree roots, and potential wet spots. Hiking poles are helpful if you usually hike with them. There are several stream crossings. We’ll hike rain or shine.

Rating: A
This hike is about 10 miles with an elevation gain of about 2100 ft.

Pace: ~2.5 mph. Hiking time about 5 hours

**Maps: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-july-2-2025-6048ff4-2?u=i&sh=yx560t**

Park Entrance Fee: $30 Day (free with pass)

Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

Carpools: For those wishing to carpool, the suggested carpool location is at the Centerville P&R. The driving time from there to the trailhead is about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Please arrive at the Park and Ride by 6:45 AM so all cars can leave no later than 7:00 AM. The hike leader will be at the carpool location and has a park pass. Suggested carpool fee is $8.

Please arrive at the trailhead 8:45 AM so we can get everyone signed in. The Milam Gap parking area is between mile marker 52 & 53 on Skyline Drive , GPS: 38.5003, -78.4456. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00 AM.