A Rich History

Rapidan Camps, located deep within the Blue Ridge mountains, approximately 100 miles from Washington DC, and 25 miles west of Culpeper, Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.

The camp was initially established as the "Cabinet Camp" part of a presidential retreat for Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. Hoover, an avid fisherman, chose this location due to its proximity to the Rapidan River. Hoover camp also known as Rapidan Camp was built in 1929 by U.S. Marines and was the first complex specifically designed to be used by a U.S. president when not in official residence. The camp was designed to be a rustic retreat away from the pressures of Washington, with the Hoovers using it extensively for relaxation and entertainment.

In the 1953, the camp was purchased by the original 14 members of the cooperative and operated as a Family Camp.  The Camp now consists of five rustic cabins—four equipped with beds, full kitchens and baths, and a community lodge. Camp is located on 4+ acres on the Rapidan River. The camp is a place for relaxation and outdoor activities, with the cabins close to the end of a remote mountain road, 5 miles from pavement. The cabins are not equipped with TVs, radios, or telephones. There is, however, Wi-Fi access available in the event of emergencies.

The cabins themselves are historic and rustic, with many modern conveniences such as electricity and water (from April to October). They were built for senior members of President Hoover's staff, and while they are kept clean, they are still in the woods, so visitors can expect to see wildlife like mice, spiders, deer, snakes, and occasionally, bears.

The camp is a cooperative, and all members are responsible for making sure their guests respect the camp. Non-members are expected to follow the same philosophy of camp--to treat the camp as if it were their own. The camp does not currently permit tent camping on their property, except for individuals renting cabins who have special permission from the registrar.

The camp is also a place for outdoor activities, with many excellent trails nearby, such as Old Rag Mountain, Bear Church Rock atop Jones mountain, the Appalachian Trail 3 miles away, and hiking to Big Meadows at Skyline Drive.

The Rapidan River is a fish for fun stream for recreation--only barbless hooks are permitted, and fish must be returned to the river after being caught. The river is also a great place to swim on a hot day.

Despite the changes over the years, Rapidan Camps continues to be a place of relaxation and outdoor enjoyment, maintaining much of its historic charm and rustic appeal.