West Virginia Camping: Scenic Getaways in the Mountain State

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Campers flock to the Mountain State to enjoy its breathtaking scenery, countless outdoor activities, and diverse terrain. Whether you prefer serene riverfront spots, rugged mountains, or family-friendly locations, West Virginia’s camping destinations provide an unforgettable experience.

Explore the top campgrounds, essential gear, and key details to plan your next adventure.

Top 10 Camping Destinations in West Virginia

New River Gorge National Park

New River Gorge National Park is nestled in the heart of West Virginia. Named after the river that runs through it, one of the oldest in the world, the campground includes stunning sandstone cliffs and a breathtaking vista. Visitors can enjoy eight campgrounds for tent, RV, or van camping, as well as several areas available for backcountry camping. You don’t need a reservation—sites are first come, first serve—just know that camping is prohibited within 100 feet of developed trails.

Visitors can enjoy serene hiking trails that wind through the forest or take a bolder approach with whitewater rafting adventures on the rapids of the New River.

Features: Whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking trails
Facilities: Campgrounds with restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits. No hookups or electricity available.
Things to Know: Plan your visit early. Popular sites fill up quickly, especially during the busy season.

Seneca State Forest

Seneca State Forest is the state’s oldest and largest forest. With its towering sandstone formations, the Seneca Rocks are one of the most iconic landmarks in West Virginia. This stunning natural wonder is a favorite among climbers, offering routes for all skill levels. Hikers can enjoy the Seneca Rocks Trail, leading to an observation platform with breathtaking views of the Monongahela National Forest.

Seneca State Forest is ideal for solo campers or small groups who prefer solitude and peace among natural beauty. Its 65-foot-tall fire tower offers impressive panoramic views.

Several campgrounds are located within the Seneca State Forest area, including the Seneca Shadows Campground, Seneca Rocks, and the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

Features: Stunning panoramic views, challenging climbing routes, and educational nature programs.
Facilities: Basic tent sites, teepees, cabins, bunkhouses, etc. Some campgrounds offer coin-operated laundry and firewood for sale.
Things to Know: Wear sturdy shoes and prepare for varying levels of climbing difficulty. The Seneca Rocks Discovery Center provides valuable insights into the area. Most campsites are secluded.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Home to the iconic Blackwater Falls, this state park is a dream destination for photographers. The park’s centerpiece, a 57-foot amber-colored waterfall, is surrounded by scenic trails and overlooks. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most photographed places in the state. Visitors can also explore the park’s diverse landscape, which includes lush forests and wetlands.

Features: Scenic hiking trails, paddle boating opportunities, and a nature center.
Facilities: 65 electric campsites, cabins, and lodges, with a central bathhouse, laundromat, and dumping station.
Things to Know: Visit during fall for breathtaking foliage or winter for cross-country skiing.

Greenbrier State Forest

Greenbrier State Forest is located in the southeastern part of the state, close to the Virginia border. It has over 5,000 acres of mountainous forest landscape and offers a tranquil escape with its dense woodlands and serene ambiance. The forest’s extensive trail system caters to hikers and mountain bikers, while the Greenbrier River is perfect for fishing and kayaking.

This is a small campground with only 16 units for tents or trailers, so make a reservation early for their open season (spring through fall) to ensure a good spot.

Features: Mountain biking, fishing streams, and relaxing picnic areas.
Facilities: Campsites with electric hookups, cabins, a central bathhouse, and a stone fireplace.
Things to Know: This park is ideal for families or solo campers looking for a quiet getaway. The shaded campsites are perfect for hot summer days.

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Dolly Sods Wilderness is a unique and rugged landscape within the Monongahela National Forest featuring high-altitude plateaus, windswept plains, and boggy meadows. This remote area is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, offering a sense of solitude and an opportunity to connect with untouched nature. Its challenging trails are adorned with wild blueberries and cranberries in season, adding to its charm.

This area is unique because the US military used it for training during WWII. Because of this, many artillery and mortar shells shot into the area may still exist in the region today. You must never touch, approach, or dig near a suspected shell and immediately call the Forest Service if you believe you’ve found one.

Features: Remote hiking trails, rare plant species, and unparalleled views.
Facilities: Basic camping only, with no modern amenities.
Things to Know: Weather conditions can change rapidly– it’s best suited for experienced hikers and campers.

Spruce Knob – Seneca Creek

As the highest peak in West Virginia, Spruce Knob offers jaw-dropping views and some of the best stargazing opportunities in the state. The Spruce Knob Observation Tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery, while Seneca Creek offers cascading waterfalls and peaceful streams. This site is an excellent destination for boating, fishing, since it’s less than a mile from Spruce Knob Lake.

Features: Scenic overlooks, backcountry trails, and abundant wildlife.
Facilities: Primitive campsites near the peak.
Things to Know: Even in summer, temperatures can be chilly. Pack layers and enjoy the tranquility of this remote location.

Coopers Rock State Forest

Coopers Rock State Forest is a favorite for its dramatic rock formations and panoramic views in Almost Heaven. The Coopers Rock Overlook provides a stunning vantage point, while 50+ miles of hiking and biking trails. The Raven Rock Trail showcases the area’s natural beauty, with its sandstone cliffs, canyon overlooks, cross-country ski terrain, and a nearby lake. History buffs can also explore remnants of the old Henry Clay iron furnace, the first steam-powered blast furnace in West Virginia. It’s now a hiking trail the whole family can enjoy.

Features: Family-friendly trails, rock climbing, and picnic shelters.
Facilities: 50 total campsites and star-gazing cabins across two campgrounds (McCollum and Rhododendron). The first has electric hookups at each site, while the latter is a primitive campground where trailers are not permitted.
Things to Know: Ideal for families, this park offers trails suitable for all skill levels. Don’t miss the Coopers Rock Overlook.

Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park, the largest in West Virginia, is a hub for outdoor activities and natural exploration. Located in Marlinton within the Pocahontas Country mountains, its expansive trails cater to hikers and cyclists, while the arboretum offers a peaceful place to learn about native plants. Families can enjoy the swimming pool, fishing in Watoga Lake, and various recreational facilities. Other fun amenities include a museum and observation tower.

Watoga State Park currently holds Dark Sky Park status, meaning it’s one of the best places to catch stunning views of the starry night sky.

Features: Boating, hiking, birdwatching, and a swimming pool.
Facilities: Modern campgrounds, rustic cabins, and picnic areas.
Things to Know: This park is pet-friendly and accessible for all ages. Book early during peak seasons.

Summersville Lake

Known as the “Little Bahamas of the East Coast,” Summersville Lake is the state’s newest park, which boasts crystal-clear waters and a picturesque shoreline along the state’s largest lake. Since opening in 2023, this park has quickly become a hotspot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving. The nearby Gauley River provides additional opportunities for adventure, including world-class whitewater rafting.

While camping isn’t yet available through the state park, there are plenty of nearby options, including the Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse or Battle Run Campground.

Features: Kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing in pristine waters.
Facilities: Tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and more at nearby campgrounds.
Things to Know: Summer is the best time to visit. Bring your watercraft or rent one locally. Don’t miss out on a photo-op at the Almost Heaven swing.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Canaan Valley Resort is a year-round destination with countless outdoor activities. In summer, visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, while winter transforms the park into a skiing and snowboarding haven. The park is also one of the state’s largest and home to diverse wildlife and scenic wetlands. It’s hard to get better than this in West Virginia, with Canaan Valley Resort State Park earning recognition as one of America’s Best State Parks and one of the 50 Great Places to Stay by various publications.

Features: Diverse trails, wildlife observation, and golf.
Facilities: Campsites, cabins, and a resort lodge.
Things to Know: Popular year-round, so plan your visit early. Great for all ages.

What To Pack for a West Virginia Camping Trip

Tent and Sleeping Gear: Tarp, tent with fly to prevent rain seeping in, sleeping bag or pad, blankets, pillows
Portable Power Solutions: Keep your devices charged and your campsite powered. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series, including the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus and EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W), is perfect for charging lights, electronics, and cooking equipment during short camping trips. If you plan on taking long hikes, pack the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank for quick and powerful phone charging for safety.
Portable Air Conditioner and Heater: For added comfort during camping trips, the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner is a must. It can cool your tent during hot, sweaty summers and function as a heater, providing critical warmth in the coldest months.
Cooking Supplies: Portable stove, utensils, and non-perishable food.
Lighting: Headlamps, lanterns, string lights, and spare batteries.
Water: Clean drinking water or a portable water filtration system to treat natural water sources.
Clothing and Shoes: Clothing layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
Campfire Essentials: Firewood, fire starter, and tools to maintain a safe campfire.
Navigation: GPS or maps to stay oriented in remote areas.
First Aid: Pack bandages, antiseptic, and essential personal medications.
Hygiene: Trash bags, soap, towels, toothbrushes, paper towels, and hand sanitizer.
Extra Tools: Multitool, pocketknife, duct tape, and repair kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does It Cost to Camp at West Virginia State Parks?

Camping fees can range from free to $50 per night, depending on the amenities and park location. Primitive campsites tend to be more affordable than electric hookup sites or cabins. You may also notice that prices increase during the busy season.

Is Boondocking Legal in West Virginia?

Boondocking is permitted in some areas, such as national forests like the George Washington, Jefferson, and Monongahela National Forests or national parks like the New River National Park, but restrictions may apply. Before backcountry camping, you should always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits.

Final Thoughts

Is West Virginia your next camping wonderland? The Mountain State’s camping destinations cater to every type of adventurer, from serene lakeside retreats to rugged backcountry escapes. The beauty of West Virginia is more than enough to make a great camping trip, but packing the right essentials, like the EcoFlow River 3 Series, can take it to the next level.