The Best Places to Go Camping in West Virginia

a couple sitting next to each other at a campsite in front of a campfire with a tent on either side of them and a starry night sky above

If you’re a lover of nature and all things camping, then West Virginia is the place for you. Boasting luscious greenery, cliffs, scenic views and showcasing the overall beauty of nature, West Virginia has become a top camping destination for both locals and tourists. The good news is that should you make your way to campgrounds in WV, you can still step into an online casino to access some of your favorite games.

West Virginia offers a good balance of different types of camping sites, which we take a closer look at below.

Where To Go Camping in West Virginia

The New River Gorge Bridge at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve during the Autumn leaf color change near Fayetteville, West Virginia

1. Lost River State Park: Situated in eastern West Virginia, this camping site offers semi-furnished tents with queen beds at $25 per tent and $42 for RV/Campers. There are hiking trails nearby as well as the option to go hiking up Big Ridge Mountain. With limited cell reception, this is the ideal place to relax and unplug from the rest of the world. A drive by car will get you there.

2. Bluestone State Park: This beautiful park in West Virginia is located on the shores of Bluestone Lake. You can bring a tent or RV to one of the four campgrounds on site, one of which is the East Shore campground. This particular campground is more secluded and offers you some alone time. To access the East Shore campground, you have to use a boat. Once there, you can sit back and enjoy the stunning view of the lake.

3. New River Gorge National Park: One of the newest national parks in West Virginia, this park offers two camping areas and gives you access to one of the oldest rivers in North America, New River. The good news is that camping here is free, while tents and RV spots are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

4. Holly River State Park: This is West Virginia’s second-largest state park and offers tents, RVs and cabins for you to choose from, depending on the time of year you visit. This state park is ideal for people who love flowers. The good news is that there are also pet-friendly cabins, allowing you to bring your furry friend with you if you wish!

5. Baker’s Run Campground: Situated on the Elk River, Baker’s Run Campground offers guests a nice view of the different fish that can be found in the river. This tent and RV campsite is also in close proximity to Sutton Lake, which is another key attraction for patrons. The daily rate is between $20 and $30, depending on your overall preference and package of choice.

6. Red Creek Campground: The Lion’s Head rock formation is a key attraction of this site, with a few West Virginia hiking trails nearby. You can drive up to this campsite and proceed to Seneca Rocks for rock climbing.

7. Greenbrier River Campground: Situated on the Greenbrier River, you can enjoy activities such as swimming, canoeing and kayaking here. While transport can be provided upon request, boats and tubes are also available.

8. Big Bend Campground: Located in the Monongahela National Forest, this is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for some quality quiet time. Nearby is the South Branch of the Potomac River, which is why river trips are a popular choice among guests.

9. Cranberry River: Situated within Monongahela National Forest, there’s a total of 14 campsites to choose from lower down the river. Camping here isn’t permitted in the first quarter of the year, only from mid-March to mid-November.

10. Canaan Valley: Considered a glamping West Virginia site, you can enjoy spa treatments and restrooms with showers. This WV state parks camping site permits self-contained RVs. Key attractions include Seneca Rocks, the Smoke Hole Caverns and a heated pool.

11. Kumbrabow State Forest: Located near Rich Mountain, this site is surrounded by forests, offering 13 sites near a trout stream. There are also several hiking trails to explore, which attract a lot of people. Take your pick from tents and RVs.

12. Fish Creek: Known to offer some of the best and most hearty southern-style meals, Fish Creek Campground offers activities such as fishing, swimming and hiking.

13. Plum Orchard Lake Wildlife Management Area: To camp here you need to get a camping permit from the area manager. This is a great option if you enjoy fishing. Offering tent and RV sites, there’s limited provision for vehicles.

14. Mountain Lake: This is a popular camping site for families, accommodating tents and RVs. There are a variety of activities to try out, from mini golf to hiking and an assortment of water sports. Provision is also made for those who want to bring their own boats.

15. Seneca Shadows: Located in the Monongahela National Forest, this campsite offers a more modern experience. There are several hiking trails nearby and you can climb up Seneca Rocks to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Seneca Shadows, as many do when they find themselves in nature reserves. Tent and RV sites are available.

16. Audra State Park: A popular choice amongst kids and young adults, this park offers countless photo opportunities because of its natural beauty. Situated near the Middle Fork River, it’s also highly recommended for families. Some amenities are available on-site as well as activities such as hiking and fishing at different times of the year. RVs, tents and trailers are welcome.

17. Tomlinson Run State Park: Unlike others, this park offers yurt rentals, which are more durable than ordinary tents. The Bigfoot Trail is one of the best surrounding places to hike.

18. Chestnut Ridge Regional Park: Here, you can do more than just camp. Treat yourself and your family to paddle boating, fishing and swimming. Provision is made for tents, RVs and cabins.

19. Hawk Recreation Area and Campground: This site offers tent and RV sites. Although it provides for a nice time away from the hustle and bustle, Wardensville is close enough for any supplies you may need.

20. East Fork Campground: Offering tent, RV and cabin sites, you’re welcome to bring your furry friends along to East Fork Campground since it offers pet-friendly camping areas. Located along Rock Creek, you’ll be able to truly reconnect with nature.

Guide and Tips for Camping in West Virginia

the upper area of Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area in the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia with beautiful orange Fall leaves surrounding the rocks of this famous climbing area

As you would prepare before any holiday or trip, it’s always good to do a bit of research before embarking on your camping trip. This includes a weather forecast so you can pack accordingly, as well as your budget so that you can look at budget-friendly options if need be. Here are some other tips to consider:

Decide on the most suitable camping site for you.
Confirm the rules, regulations and other pertinent information beforehand.
Be mindful of the environment during your stay.
Bring tools such as a compass, binoculars, water bottles, etc. in case there’s no cellphone reception.
Don’t be too noisy so you don’t disturb the animals in their natural habitat.
Prepare for possible weather changes.
Have essentials on hand (medication, water, etc.).

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