The 18 Best Campgrounds In West Virginia – Top-Rated & Hidden Gems
Get ready for an insider’s guide to the best camping in West Virginia – a mix of top-rated spots and hidden gems that’ll take your camping game to the next level. Whether you’re a camping pro or just starting out, the Mountain State has a little something for everyone. From epic state parks to those secret forest getaways, these campgrounds are where the real adventure begins. So, let’s dive into the natural wonders of West Virginia and find that perfect camping spot you’ll be bragging about for years to come!
Best State Park Campgrounds in West Virginia
Have you ever explored the campgrounds at West Virginia’s state parks? If not, you’re in for a treat. Picture this: majestic mountains, crystal-clear streams, and a wealth of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and stargazing. So, let’s jump right in and explore these incredible campgrounds!
- Location: Clifftop, West Virginia
- Popularity: Very popular. While the park draws visitors year-round, it tends to get especially crowded during the fall and in the summer when the warmer weather brings more people. To enjoy a quieter experience, consider planning your visit for the mid to late spring.
- Park Info: Cabins 1-2, 9, 12-15, 17-18 and 24-27 are designated pet-friendly. Coin-operated laundry, bathhouse, water fill-up stations, sewage facilities, firewood, ice, WiFi, and cell phone service are available.
- Price: $35-$160/night
Babcock State Park in West Virginia spans 4,127 acres of breathtaking scenery just 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge Bridge. Its star attraction is the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper’s Mill. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and nearby whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge. The park offers a 52-unit campground with electric and non-electric sites, featuring a central bathhouse, laundry facilities, and convenient amenities. For a more upscale experience, Babcock provides 28 charming cabins, each equipped with modern conveniences and Wi-Fi.
- Location: Davis, West Virginia
- Popularity: Very popular year-round.
- Park Info: In the summer, enjoy tennis, volleyball, and basketball at the game courts. Pendleton Lake opens for water activities on Memorial Day Weekend. In the winter, experience the Blackwater Falls Sled Run with a 14,000-foot Wonder Carpet conveyor, the longest in North America. Rent toboggans at the warming hut and find cross-country skis and snowshoes there too.
- Price: $50-$270/night
If you're looking for a nature getaway, look no further than Blackwater Falls State Park in Tucker County. Named for the gorgeous amber waters of Blackwater Falls, this park boasts a 57-foot cascade that's totally mesmerizing. Of course, the falls aren't the only thing to see here. Elakala Falls, Lindy Point, and Pendleton Point Overlook are just a few of the other features that make this park one of the most photographed spots in the state. With 20 miles of hiking trails and plenty of outdoor activities, Blackwater Falls State Park has something for everyone.
Blackwater Falls State Park offers a variety of camping options, including tent and trailer sites with electric hookups, fully-furnished cabins, pet-friendly cabins, and a lodge with sweeping views of the gorge. For a unique camping experience, the park also has Tentrr campsites with pre-set canvas tents on wooden deck platforms.
- Location: Camp Creek, West Virginia
- Popularity: Hidden gem.
- Park Info: Mash Fork Campground provides 26 sites for trailers and tents, offering electric, water, and full hookup options. Amenities include Wi-Fi and a heated bathhouse. Blue Jay Campground has 12 rustic sites tailored for tent campers. If you're up for a more remote experience, the Pack It In – Pack It Out Campground requires a hike or bike ride of over three miles. For horse enthusiasts, the Double C Horse and Rider Campground is ideal, catering to those traveling with horses for trail riding.
- Price: $25-$85/night
Camp Creek State Park and Forest in Mercer County offers beautiful waterfalls, camping, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing. It spans 6,000 acres with 35 miles of trails and has seven miles of stocked trout streams. The park features four campgrounds with amenities, and for a secluded mountain retreat, there's the Ranger Outpost Cabin, accessible by a 3.3-mile hike. The cabin has bunk-style beds, a loft, and outdoor facilities.
- Location: Mathias, West Virginia
- Popularity: Remote and quiet.
- Park Info: Along with an outdoor swimming pool, the park offers tennis courts, a volleyball court, an archery range, badminton, and horseshoe, ensuring plenty of fun activities for everyone to enjoy.
- Price: up to $185/night
Lost River State Park in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle offers a secluded mountain getaway spanning nearly 4,000 acres of tranquil woods, perfect for outdoor lovers. Explore the renowned Cranny Crow overlook on Big Ridge Mountain, boasting breathtaking views of five counties.
For a rustic retreat, opt for the Legacy Cabins (CCC cabins) with wood or stone construction, featuring amenities like electricity, water, fully equipped kitchens, linens, showers, wood fireplaces, and grills. Alternatively, choose modern Vacation Cabins with heating, air conditioning, gas fireplaces, TVs, microwaves, and kitchens. For a more adventurous experience, the Ranger Cabin atop Big Ridge Mountain, a two-mile hike away, accommodates four bunk beds and two queen-size mattresses. Firewood is provided, but expect no electricity, running water, or linens.
For the ultimate outdoor adventure, explore the park's primitive campsites accessible via a 1.5-mile hike or three campsites near the upper shelter No. 2 area, equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers.
Additionally, Lost River State Park offers unique Tentrr campsites deep within the park, reached by a 1.5-mile hike, featuring pre-set canvas tents on wooden platforms, queen-size memory foam mattresses, and amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, solar showers, and portable toilets, along with access to forest restroom facilities.
Best Beach Camping in West Virginia
Experience the best waterfront camping West Virginia has to offer. From serene lakeshores to winding rivers, the state boasts a range of picturesque camping destinations right by the water.
- Location: Buckhannon, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst families who enjoy the ruggedness of the outdoors.
- Park Info: Activities include biking, boating, fishing, geocaching, hiking, and swimming.
- Price: $35-$43/night
Audra State Park, situated in southwestern Barbour County and part of Upshur County, is a lush and wooded area graced by the Middle Fork River. This natural haven attracts visitors year-round, lured by the scenic beauty of the river and its surroundings, offering activities like hiking, camping, and family picnics. It's an ideal spot for outdoor-loving families, with the crystal-clear waters of the Middle Fork River and the picturesque Alum Cave rock overhang.
The park features 65 campsites, with 39 of them offering electricity. The campground is well-equipped, boasting two bathhouses with modern amenities and a centrally located playground for kids. You'll also find coin-operated washing machines and dryers on-site, along with a convenient dumping station nearby. And if you need camping supplies, snacks, souvenirs, bagged ice, or firewood, the campground store has you covered. Enjoy the beauty and amenities of Audra State Park while making lasting family memories in the great outdoors.
- Location: Barboursville, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst families.
- Park Info: Beech Fork State Park has a summer swimming pool open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and features a bathhouse and a public snack bar. The park also offers recreational boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing on Beech Fork Lake. Rentals include canoes, kayaks, jon boats, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards at the boat dock.
- Price: $45-$227/night
Beech Fork State Park in southwestern West Virginia offers a fantastic vacation destination. This 3,144-acre park has hundreds of campsites, miles of hiking trails, and a 720-acre lake with 31 miles of shoreline for fishing. It's just 12 miles from Huntington and Barboursville, making it convenient for visitors from nearby cities like Cincinnati and Lexington.
The park features 275 campsites with modern amenities such as paved parking pads, grills, picnic tables, fully equipped bathhouses, and restrooms. You can also find supplies at the seasonally operated Camper's Corner Store. Additionally, six year-round vacation cabins are available, offering cozy comforts and scenic views of Beech Fork Lake. Enjoy the outdoors and quality time with your family at Beech Fork State Park.
- Location: Cairo, West Virginia
- Popularity: Very popular family-friendly spot.
- Park Info: North Bend State Park offers canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, and geocaching. Birdwatching is a popular activity at the park, with a significant population of Red-headed Woodpeckers and various songbirds, including summer tanagers.
- Price: $35-$143/night
If you're looking for a scenic getaway with year-round recreational opportunities, North Bend State Park in the Mid-Ohio Valley is the place for you. The park is named after the curve of the North Fork of the Hughes River and is known for its hiking trails, wildlife, and the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail. Families and hikers alike will enjoy exploring this beautiful area located near Cairo and Harrisville.
For those who prefer camping, North Bend State Park offers two great options. River Run Campground has 49 sites with Wi-Fi, 26 of which have 50 amp electric service and water hookups. Cokeley Campground is designed for RVs and campers with slide-outs. Twenty-six sites have an electrical system that supports air conditioning units and water. Wi-Fi is available, and there's a coin-operated laundry on site.
If you're looking for a more cozy experience, the park's cedar cabins are the perfect option. These cozy forest retreats come complete with amenities like fireplaces, central HVAC, telephones, and fully equipped kitchens, complete with linens and cookware.
For those who prefer a more traditional lodging experience, North Bend State Park's Lodge offers 29 guest rooms, a full-service restaurant, conference facilities, and a souvenir gift shop. With picturesque woodland views, this lodge is situated on a ridge and provides the perfect escape for those looking for a room with a view.
- Location: Beaver, West Virginia
- Popularity: Little-known hidden gem.
- Park Info: An 18-hole disc golf course is coming to Little Beaver State Park, so be on the look out!
- Price: $37-$50/night
Little Beaver State Park is a family-friendly destination with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. With 20 miles of trails, an 18-acre lake for fishing, and seasonal rentals for water sports, visitors will never run out of things to do. Camping options include 16 sites with water hookups and 30 sites with electric and water, as well as a new camping cabin that sleeps up to four guests. The cabin comes with a small refrigerator, TV, sink, and window A/C unit and is pet-friendly.
Top Glamping in West Virginia
West Virginia’s finest glamping destinations are designed to offer cozy accommodations in the most stunning natural settings, letting you fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors while relishing the comforts of a well-appointed retreat. Whether you’re dreaming of a secluded mountain escape, a riverside oasis, or a cozy forest hideaway, West Virginia’s top glamping spots are here on this list.
- Location: Alderson, West Virginia
- Popularity: Very popular.
- Park Info: No minimum stay, pet-friendly (up to two pets with a fee), family-run, and each reservation includes firewood for the smokeless fire pit.
- Price: starting at $120 and up/night
Tucked away on a beautiful 65-acre property near the New River Gorge National Park, this place offers the ultimate outdoor experience. And the history of the site is fascinating - there once was an old mill from the 1800s on the property! You might even find some Septarian Nodules in the stream that once powered the mill.
But that's not all - guests can enjoy complimentary kayaking, stand-up paddle boards, nature walks, and delicious farm-to-table meals made with fresh vegetables, eggs, and homemade pies. The accommodations themselves are fantastic - each dome has everything you need, from a Keurig to a well-equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and a shower. Some even come with a hot tub or a smokeless fire pit.
- Location: Beaver, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst couples.
- Park Info: On-site activities include 18-hole mixed golf, horseshoe pit, sand volleyball, picnic shelter, playground, and snookball.
- Price: $149-$309/night
Looking for a unique lodging option for a romantic getaway or family vacation? Check out these luxury log cabin and treehouse rentals. You'll be amazed by the beautiful views and fun on-site activities, and the luxury treehouses offer a new and unique lodging experience.
Each treehouse features a private hot tub, covered front deck, and open back deck for nature-watching. Plus, enjoy amenities like Direct TV, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with tub and shower. Electric heat and air ensure your comfort, and outdoor grills and fire pits provide the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings.
- Location: Moorefield, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst couples.
- Park Info: Amenities include bed linens, bath towels, bath products, microwave, mini-fridge, electricity, air conditioner/heater, and coffee maker.
- Price: $99-$199/night
On the search for a glamping experience close to both DC and Baltimore? Look no further than Loves Way Village, located in the heart of West Virginia's picturesque Potomac Highlands. The spacious tents feature a bubbling hot tub, a luxurious king-sized bed, air conditioning, a fridge, a microwave, and a Keurig coffee machine.
12. Camp Holly
- Location: Diana, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst couples and families.
- Park Info: Camp store, stocked fishing lake, goats, ducks, chickens, fishing, swimming holes, paddle boat, hiking trail, and a climbing dome.
- Price: $10-$85+/night
Camp Holly is a haven for nature lovers. The scenic 65-acre property boasts a large pond nestled between two rivers, offering serene campsites surrounded by towering trees.
The Alpenglow Village site has easy access to amenities like the camp store and bathhouse. Discover the Vintage VIP Section, featuring '56 Little Gem and VW Weekender Campers, as well as custom A-Frames. Plus, this site has a full hook-up RV lane for added convenience.
Fisherman's Village sits perfectly between some streams and Pete's Pond. It offers a one-bedroom pondside cabin and cozy confluence tent sites.
The Backcountry Village, along Pete's Pond, cliffs, and the Holly River, offers a secluded retreat. Accessible by a short hike or stroll, it borders the Holly River and pristine acres of untouched land.
Best RV Camping Sites in West Virginia
West Virginia is a hidden gem for RV campers, offering stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a variety of top-notch campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or a fun-filled adventure on the water, there’s something for everyone in the Mountain State. Whether you’re an RV owner or opt to rent one through services like RVShare, these RV campgrounds undeniably enhance the camping adventure.
- Location: Bruceton Mills, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular amongst families.
- Park Info: Mini golf, game room, courts, baseball field, community center, hiking trails, mountain bike trails, swimming, and fishing.
- Price: $35-$75/night
Big Bear Lake Camplands offers a convenient and affordable camping experience surrounded by 5,000 acres of property to explore. Big Bear has been bringing enjoyment to happy campers since 1972.
For those who want the Big Bear outdoor experience, Beaver Creek Village offers an exclusive overnight campground with several camping options. With basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts and the newly opened water park, Bearfoot Springs, there's something for everyone. Hikers and bikers will enjoy our world-class trail system as well.
The campground offers standard RV and tent sites with electric only, a picnic table, and a fire ring. They also have deluxe RV sites with pull-thru access, electric, water, sewage, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
- Location: Princeton, West Virginia
- Popularity: Popular family-friendly spot.
- Park Info: Super premium waterfall sites have the best views.
- Price: $56-$84/night
Brushcreek Falls RV Resort is conveniently located just 1.8 miles off I-77 EXIT 14 near Princeton in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. The offerings include four cozy cabins and 70 RV/camper sites.
The RV campsites are the heart of the resort, featuring 52 fully equipped sites with water, power, and sewer connections. They also provide the convenience of an on-site propane filling station.
Enjoy a range of amenities during your stay, including a gem mine, mini golf, playgrounds, a pool, an arcade, a general store, and access to activities like skiing and whitewater rafting.
- Location: Marlinton, West Virginia
- Popularity: Open spring through fall with summer and fall being the busiest.
- Park Info: Watoga offers a variety of game courts, including tennis, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and disc golf. Additionally, you'll find playground equipment at the recreation building and campgrounds for family fun.
- Price: $45-$50/night
Watoga State Park, West Virginia's largest state park, sprawls across 10,100 acres in the picturesque Pocahontas County mountains. Here, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating, with Watoga Lake being a hotspot for fishing. The park also boasts unique attractions, including a multipurpose building, museum, and observation tower. Notably, in October 2021, Watoga State Park earned the official Dark Sky Park status from the International Dark-Sky Association, making it a prime destination for camping.
Choose from two campgrounds: Beaver Creek Campground, with 38 units offering 50-amp electric hookups, picnic areas, and central amenities, or Riverside Campground, featuring 50 units, all with 50-amp electric hookups, picnic spots, and central facilities, making your stay in Watoga State Park a one to remember.
Best Primitive Tent Camping in West Virginia
With its rugged terrain, lush forests, and scenic waterways, the state boasts numerous hidden gems for those seeking a more rustic adventure. Whether it’s camping along the banks of a pristine mountain stream, nestled deep within the wilderness, or beneath the canopy of trees, West Virginia’s primitive campgrounds provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
- Location: Hillsboro, West Virginia
- Popularity: Remote, but popular.
- Park Info: Trails are unmarked, so follow designated paths; don't create new ones. There are no bridges at river crossings, and trails can get muddy, so be ready to get your feet wet.
- Price: $10-$20/night
The Cranberry Wilderness, spanning 47,815 acres within the Monongahela National Forest, holds a special place in the National Wilderness Preservation System. Situated in West Virginia's Pocahontas and Webster Counties, it encompasses the entire drainage of the Middle Fork of the Williams and the North Fork of the Cranberry Rivers.
When it comes to primitive camping in the Cranberry Wilderness, there's a laid-back vibe with not too many strict rules. However, a few thoughtful considerations go a long way. First and foremost, it's all about embracing the "Leave No Trace" ethos, ensuring minimal impact on the environment, and extending courtesy to future campers who might share your spot.
The semi-primitive Cranberry Campground is next to the Cranberry River and the "lower-gate" entrance to the Cranberry Backcountry. It gets busy during trout stocking from spring to June and in fall from September to October. When it's crowded, Bishop Knob Campground in the central area often has space, even when the riverside sites are full.
- Location: Davis, West Virginia
- Popularity: Remote, but popular.
- Park Info: Bring or treat water from natural sources to make it safe for drinking.
- Price: $11/night
If you're looking for a wilderness adventure, the Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia is a must-see. This 17,371-acre area is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System and contains bog and heath eco-types that are typically found in southern Canada. The wilderness is located in Grant, Randolph, and Tucker Counties and features elevations that range from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet. The Dolly Sods Wilderness has 47 miles of trails, many of which follow old railroad grades and logging roads.
If you're planning to camp, make sure to practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics and avoid building a camp within 200 feet of roads, streams, and trails. The Red Creek Campground is a primitive, small campground that sits on top of the Allegheny Plateau and within the Dolly Sods Scenic Area. Keep in mind that sites are on a first-come, first-served basis, and this campground is usually full every weekend.
18. Spruce Knob
- Location: Spruce Knob, West Virginia
- Popularity: Remote, but popular.
- Park Info: Spruce Knob Lake Campground and Gatewood Campground have access to vaulted toilets. Spruce Knob - Seneca Creek Backcountry has no restrooms.
- Price: $0-$45/night
Spruce Knob is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. It boasts the highest peak in West Virginia, which provides an excellent opportunity for backpacking and day hiking. The Spruce Knob Tower is a must-see attraction that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Moreover, the Whispering Spruce Trail is another great option for hikers, as it offers panoramic views of the beautiful terrain.
For those looking to camp in the area, there are two nearby campgrounds to choose from. The Spruce Knob Lake Campground is a great option for those who want to enjoy boating and fishing on the nearby lake. Meanwhile, the Gatewood Campground caters to groups and offers plenty of space for camping. If you're looking for a more remote camping experience, you can also try backpacking along the 60 miles of trail in the nearby Spruce Knob - Seneca Creek Backcountry.
Have you been to any of these camping spots in West Virginia? Do you think they are the best places to camp in West Virginia? We’d love to hear from you!
Whether you’re looking for lakeside RV parks with access to amenities like hot showers or you’re looking for a remote campground with mountain views, this hub has everything you need to know about camping in West Virginia! And, if you’re planning to check out the trails, don’t forget to check out our ultimate hiking packing list!
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