"National Historic Landmarks (NHLs) are nationally significant historic places designated by the Secretary of the Interior because they possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. Today, just over 2,500 historic places bear this national distinction." So, it is worth noting that Rapidan Camp earned this distinction in 1988 as "Camp Hoover," the name the camp came to be known as during the years it operated as a government retreat. The Park restored its historic name when the camp was restored in the early 2000s.

The Camp was deemed nationally significant because of its association with the Hoovers and their presidential administration. In addition to providing them respite during a tumultuous time, the Camp is also significant because of the important meetings and conversations held and decisions made here. Hoover said, "I have discovered that even the work of government can be improved by leisurely discussions of its problems out under the trees where no bells or callers jar one's thoughts."