Best West Virginia Camping Spots for Every Adventure

Readers, are you looking for the perfect camping spot in West Virginia? With its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and diverse landscapes, West Virginia is a paradise for campers. From serene lakes to rugged mountains, the state offers a wide range of camping experiences to suit every adventure. As an avid camper with years of experience exploring West Virginia’s wilderness, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you discover the best camping spots for every type of adventure. I’ve carefully analyzed the top camping destinations, considering factors like accessibility, amenities, and proximity to hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor activities.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the best West Virginia camping spots, uncovering hidden gems and popular destinations. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape by the lake, a challenging mountain trek, or an unforgettable family adventure, this guide will provide the information you need to plan your next camping trip. We’ll explore state parks, national forests, private campgrounds, and even some unique off-the-grid options. So, grab your tent, pack your gear, and let’s embark on an adventure through the best camping spots in West Virginia!

Camping near the Lakes

West Virginia is home to numerous pristine lakes, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for water-based activities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply want to relax by the water, these lakeside camping spots provide the perfect setting for a memorable getaway.

Lakeview State Park

Nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Lynn, Lakeview State Park offers a tranquil escape for campers. Its scenic location boasts gentle slopes, lush vegetation, and a serene atmosphere. The park caters to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, providing a range of amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. Its proximity to the lake makes it a prime spot for fishing, swimming, boating, and kayaking.

Lakeview State Park is also a popular destination for hiking and biking, with several trails winding through the surrounding forests. If you’re looking for a peaceful camping experience with access to recreational activities, Lakeview State Park is an excellent choice.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Located in Tucker County, Blackwater Falls State Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Blackwater Falls, which plunges over a 57-foot cliff. While camping directly by the falls isn’t possible, the park offers several campgrounds within easy reach of the falls and other park attractions.

Blackwater Falls State Park boasts a variety of campsites, catering to tent campers, RVs, and even horse trailers. The campgrounds provide amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. The park’s proximity to the falls makes it a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Canaan Valley State Park

Canaan Valley State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of recreational opportunities, including camping. Nestled in the heart of the Canaan Valley, the park encompasses over 6,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Its diverse terrain offers a variety of camping options, from secluded campsites to those with full hookups for RVs.

The park features numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. In the winter, the area transforms into a snow-covered paradise for skiing and snowboarding. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing.

Campgrounds near New River Gorge National River

New River Gorge National River, a picturesque stretch of the New River, is a haven for whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. The national park also offers ample opportunities for camping, with several campgrounds located along the river’s banks.

The campgrounds provide basic amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some campgrounds may offer additional amenities, such as showers, water hookups, and dump stations. The proximity to the river makes it an ideal spot for those who love to spend time on the water.

Camping in the Mountains

West Virginia’s rugged mountains offer a unique camping experience, with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and pristine wilderness. These mountain camping destinations cater to adventurers seeking a remote escape and a chance to connect with nature.

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Dolly Sods Wilderness, located within the Monongahela National Forest, is a vast, high-altitude plateau known for its unique and diverse ecosystem. The wilderness area is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and campers seeking a rugged and remote camping experience.

The wilderness area is characterized by its open meadows, dense forests, and numerous streams and bogs. While there are no designated campgrounds, campers can set up their tents in designated backcountry areas. The wilderness area offers opportunities for hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks, a towering formation of sandstone cliffs located in the Monongahela National Forest, offers a truly unique and unforgettable camping experience. While camping directly on the cliffs is not permitted, campers can choose from several nearby campgrounds.

These campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The area is a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

Cheat Lake

Cheat Lake, a scenic lake located in Monongalia County, is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by forested hills, offering a peaceful retreat for campers.

Several campgrounds are located around Cheat Lake, providing amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campgrounds offer easy access to the lake and nearby hiking trails.

Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park, located in Pocahontas County, is the largest state park in West Virginia, encompassing over 10,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The park offers a variety of camping options, from primitive backcountry campsites to developed campgrounds with full hookups for RVs.

The park’s extensive trail system provides ample opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. The park is also home to numerous waterfalls, streams, and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Camping near the Rivers

West Virginia’s rivers are a source of adventure, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the state’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a thrilling whitewater rafting experience, these riverfront camping spots provide the perfect basecamp.

Gauley River National Recreation Area

The Gauley River National Recreation Area, located within the Monongahela National Forest, is renowned for its whitewater rapids, attracting rafters and kayakers from around the world. The area also offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry sites.

The campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and the Gauley River itself. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

New River Gorge National River

The New River Gorge National River, a scenic stretch of the New River, is a haven for whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. The national park also offers ample opportunities for camping, with several campgrounds located along the river’s banks.

Tygart Lake State Park

Tygart Lake State Park, located in Taylor County, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The park encompasses over 1,700 acres, with a 17-mile shoreline. The park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry campsites.

The campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, swimming beaches, and the Tygart Lake itself. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Bluestone National Scenic River

Bluestone National Scenic River, located in Mercer and Summers counties, offers a peaceful and scenic escape for campers. The river is known for its scenic beauty, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. The national park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry sites.

The campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, swimming beaches, and the Bluestone River itself. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Camping in State Parks

West Virginia’s state parks offer a wide range of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry sites. These parks are known for their stunning beauty, abundant wildlife, and range of recreational activities.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Canaan Valley State Park

Watoga State Park

Coopers Rock State Forest

Coopers Rock State Forest, located in Preston County, is renowned for its breathtaking views, rugged terrain, and diverse wildlife. The state forest offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry sites.

The campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and scenic overlooks. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and birds.

North Bend State Park

North Bend State Park, located in Ritchie County, is a haven for campers seeking a peaceful escape. The park encompasses over 1,800 acres, with a scenic stretch of the Ohio River running through it. The park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive backcountry sites.

The campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, swimming beaches, and the Ohio River itself. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Camping in National Forests

West Virginia’s national forests offer a vast wilderness experience, with opportunities for hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. These forests provide some of the most remote and challenging camping experiences in the state.

Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest, encompassing over 900,000 acres, is the largest national forest in West Virginia. The forest offers numerous opportunities for camping, with a variety of designated campgrounds, backcountry sites, and primitive campsites.

The forest is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, streams, and rivers. It’s a popular destination for hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Jefferson National Forest

The Jefferson National Forest, encompassing over 700,000 acres, stretches across southwestern Virginia and a small portion of West Virginia. The forest offers numerous opportunities for camping, with a variety of designated campgrounds, backcountry sites, and primitive campsites.

The forest is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, streams, and rivers. It’s a popular destination for hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, encompassing over 1.1 million acres, are the largest contiguous national forests in the eastern United States. The forests offer numerous opportunities for camping, with a variety of designated campgrounds, backcountry sites, and primitive campsites.

The forests are home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, streams, and rivers. They are popular destinations for hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Unique Camping Experiences

West Virginia offers unique camping experiences that go beyond the traditional campground setting. From glamping to off-grid adventures, these alternative camping options provide a different perspective on outdoor living.

Glamping

Glamping, a fusion of glamour and camping, provides a comfortable and stylish experience in the heart of nature. Several glamping destinations offer various accommodations, such as yurts, cabins, and treehouses. These luxurious accommodations often feature amenities like king-size beds, private bathrooms, and kitchens.

Off-Grid Camping

Off-grid camping offers a truly immersive experience, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. These remote campsites often lack amenities like electricity and running water, providing an opportunity to embrace a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Camping in National Parks

West Virginia’s national parks, such as New River Gorge National River and Gauley River National Recreation Area, offer a unique camping experience. These parks are renowned for their stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and diverse recreational opportunities. They provide a chance to explore the state’s natural wonders and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Detailed Table Breakdown

Campground	Location	Amenities	Activities
Lakeview State Park	Lake Lynn	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings	Fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, hiking, biking
Blackwater Falls State Park	Tucker County	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings	Hiking, waterfalls, photography, nature viewing
Canaan Valley State Park	Canaan Valley	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings	Hiking, biking, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, swimming
Dolly Sods Wilderness	Monongahela National Forest	None	Hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, stargazing
Seneca Rocks	Monongahela National Forest	Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings	Hiking, rock climbing, scenic views

FAQ

What are the best camping spots in West Virginia for families?

West Virginia offers numerous family-friendly camping spots, with campgrounds that provide amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and hiking trails suitable for kids. Some of the best options include Blackwater Falls State Park, Canaan Valley State Park, Watoga State Park, and North Bend State Park.

What are the best camping spots in West Virginia for hiking?

For hiking enthusiasts, West Virginia offers a wide range of options, from gentle trails to challenging climbs. Some of the best camping spots for hiking include Dolly Sods Wilderness, Seneca Rocks, Cheat Lake, and Watoga State Park. These areas offer scenic trails with breathtaking views and opportunities for exploring the state’s diverse landscape.

What are the best camping spots in West Virginia for fishing?

West Virginia boasts numerous pristine lakes and rivers teeming with fish, making it a paradise for anglers. Some of the best camping spots for fishing include Lakeview State Park, Tygart Lake State Park, Bluestone National Scenic River, and New River Gorge National River. These locations offer access to diverse fishing spots, from calm lake waters to flowing rivers.

Conclusion

From serene lakes and rugged mountains to pristine rivers and vast forests, West Virginia offers a diverse range of camping experiences for every type of adventure. This guide has explored some of the best camping spots in the state, covering state parks, national forests, private campgrounds, and unique off-the-grid options. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a challenging hike, or an unforgettable family adventure, West Virginia is sure to have the perfect camping spot for you. So, pack your gear, grab your tent, and get ready to experience the magic of the Mountain State!

If you’re looking for more information on camping in West Virginia, be sure to check out our other articles on specific camping destinations, hiking trails, fishing spots, and tips for planning your next camping trip.

From the rolling hills to the rugged mountains, West Virginia offers an array of camping experiences for every adventurer. Whether you crave serene lakefront views, thrilling whitewater rapids, or peaceful woodland retreats, the state’s diverse landscapes cater to your every desire. As you plan your next camping escapade, consider these remarkable spots, each a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Their natural beauty, coupled with the state’s welcoming atmosphere, promises a memorable getaway for all.

For those seeking solace in the embrace of nature, Blackwater Falls State Park presents a haven of peace. Its namesake waterfall, a cascading marvel that transforms into a winter wonderland, captivates every visitor. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails, offering varying levels of difficulty, encourages exploration and discovery. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest, inhale the crisp mountain air, and create lasting memories amidst breathtaking vistas. Whether you choose to camp by the river’s edge or nestled amidst towering pines, Blackwater Falls State Park guarantees a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For the thrill-seeker yearning for adrenaline-pumping adventures, the New River Gorge National River and Preserve beckons. Here, the mighty New River, a geological wonder, carves its path through the rugged Appalachian Mountains, offering a playground for whitewater enthusiasts. From challenging rapids to gentler stretches, the river caters to diverse skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable paddling experience. The park’s sprawling wilderness, a haven for wildlife, provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, the New River Gorge reveals its ethereal beauty, a spectacle that will stay etched in your memory long after your journey ends.

Discover the best West Virginia camping spots for every adventure! From scenic overlooks to secluded waterfalls, find your perfect getaway.