Hiking / Camping Old Rag / Whiteoak Canyon

Greetings all!

Very new to this site but appreciate the information. I'm looking to take my Scouts to hike both Whiteoak and Old Rag in a few weeks. We're planning on driving up on a Saturday morning, hiking either Whiteoak or Old Rag, and then finding a place to camp overnight, then hike the other. I'm familiar with getting a backcountry camping pass, but I'm looking for tips and approaches, and camping locations (Berry, Corbin, Weakly Hollow?). We'll have a group of about 10 (older, seasoned Scouts and Adults prepping for Philmont), full packs with water, food, camping gear for an overnight). Thanks ahead!!

v/r

Scoutmaster Dave

Dave,

There are a few camp sites on the back side of Old Rag (saddle trail) but no camping above 2800 ft.  I would suggest setting up a base camp and doing each hike with day packs as going up and over Rag with a heavy pack is a little difficult for people without actual climbing experience with a heavy pack.  There is a site on the Old Rag fire road down by the creek which would make for a good spot for your group, however, one thing to keep in mind is that in Shenandoah National Park there are no fires allowed in the backcountry.  May be a good opportunity to learn to cook over a jetboil type stove.

I've climbed Rag 16 times over the last year and don't regret a single summit, it's a great hike and very enjoyable.  It can get very crowded as can White Oak Canyon so best to hike early in the day.  Let me know if you have any other questions!!

Matt / Jake, appreciate the advice! It will definitely help me out with the planning. We have whisperlites w/cannisters so we're good for cooking. Someone else mentioned bringing lite gloves for Old Rag too, as well as the daypacks you've mentioned. Again, thanks!