The New River, a rugged whitewater course flowing northward through deep canyons, stands as one of the oldest rivers on the continent. Spanning over 70,000 acres of pristine land along the New River, the park boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and natural history, promising visitors an array of scenic and recreational delights. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast seeking adrenaline-pumping activities like climbing, biking, hiking, or whitewater rafting, or simply yearn for moments of tranquility indulging in birdwatching, picnicking, or riverside camping, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers something for everyone. With 8 primitive campgrounds available, visitors can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the park, though amenities are basic, with no drinking water, hookups, electricity, or extensive restroom facilities. Camping fees are waived, and reservations are not accepted, making it an ideal destination for spontaneous adventures.
Experience the ultimate convenience, comfort, and flexibility with RV rentals from RVshare, serving as your perfect base camp for exploring the wonders of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
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Close to the quaint railroad town of Thurmond, this tent-only campground provides a serene escape with its seven walk-in sites. Five of these sites rest along the sandy banks of the New River, while the remaining two are tucked away in the nearby forest, offering a variety of scenic settings for your camping adventure. Please note that this campground does not offer drive-in sites, and RV, camper, or car camping is not permitted, ensuring a tranquil experience in nature.
Stone Cliff Beach Campground serves as the starting point for the Stone Cliff Trailhead, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embark on memorable hiking adventures right from their campsite. With all sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are not accepted, allowing for spontaneous getaways and a true sense of exploration. Whether you're lounging on the sandy beach or exploring the lush forest trails, this campground near Thurmond promises a rustic retreat immersed in the natural beauty of the New River Gorge.
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Situated along the scenic banks of the New River, Army Camp Campground beckons both tent and RV campers to its serene setting nestled within one of the river's picturesque horseshoe bends. With a total of 11 drive-in sites available, accommodating RVs, campers, and tents, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of the river's gentle flow. While the campground caters to various camping preferences, it's worth noting that only small (less than 25 feet) and medium-sized (22 - 31.5 feet) RVs or campers are recommended, as larger vehicles may face challenges navigating the site's terrain.
Partial shade is available at some sites, offering a respite from the sun's rays, while others are situated in open spaces with no shade, providing an ideal spot for stargazing under the night sky. As all sites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are not accepted, allowing campers to embark on spontaneous adventures and fully embrace the serenity of the New River's scenic surroundings. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat by the water's edge or an opportunity to reconnect with nature, this campground offers a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and explore the beauty of the New River.
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Amidst shaded woodlands along the scenic banks of the New River, Grandview Sandbar Campground promises an inviting retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation. With a variety of camping options available, including 10 wooded drive-in sites suitable for RVs, campers, car camping, and tents, along with 6 walk-in tent sites and 2 accessible sites by the river, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting their ideal camping spot. From tranquil wooded hideaways to riverside vistas, each site offers its own unique charm and ambiance, inviting campers to immerse themselves in the beauty of their natural surroundings.
While this campground caters to a range of camping preferences, it's important to note that only small (less than 25 feet) and medium-sized (22 - 31.5 feet) RVs are recommended due to the tight access road, and there are no pull-through campsites available. Despite these limitations, the campground provides an ideal setting for memorable outdoor experiences, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply basking in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're lounging by the river, exploring the surrounding woodlands, or gathering around the campfire under a starlit sky, camping at this scenic retreat promises endless fun and adventure for campers of all ages.
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Found within a lush forested setting along the picturesque banks of the New River and near the Glade Creek Trailhead, this campground offers a serene escape for both tent and RV campers. With a total of 6 walk-in tent sites and 5 drive-in sites suitable for tents, RVs, or campers, as well as 1 accessible site, visitors can choose their preferred camping style amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. While the campground caters to a range of camping preferences, it's important to note that only small (less than 25 feet) and medium-sized (22 - 31.5 feet) RVs or campers are recommended due to space constraints and terrain considerations.
As with many campgrounds in the area, all sites at this facility are managed on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted. This setup allows campers to enjoy a spontaneous outdoor adventure without the need for advance planning, adding an element of excitement to their camping experience. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, eager to explore the nearby hiking trails, or simply looking to relax by the riverside, camping at this scenic campground offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.
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Situated atop a ridgetop near Backus Mountain, this campground offers a unique camping experience away from the riverbanks that typify the park's other campgrounds. With a total of 8 drive-in sites suitable for tents, RVs, or campers, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape from their chosen spot. However, it's worth noting that while all campsites are accessible by vehicle, they are best suited for small RVs or trailers measuring less than 25 feet in total length. Due to space constraints and the terrain of the campground, large RVs or trailers exceeding this length are not recommended, and there are no pull-through campsites available.
Given its location in the Appalachian Mountains, campers should be prepared for the unpredictable and rapidly changing weather conditions that characterize the region. Mountain weather tends to be cooler and wetter than the surrounding areas, so visitors should come equipped with appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Despite the potential for inclement weather, camping at this unique campground offers the chance to immerse oneself in the rugged beauty of the Appalachian landscape and enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst nature's splendor.
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Alongside the scenic New River, Brooklyn Campground provides an idyllic setting near the Cunard River Access point and Southside Trailhead. Providing 4 walk-in tent sites and 1 tent-only drive-in site, it offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a closer connection to nature. However, it's important to note that this campground exclusively caters to tent campers, as there are no designated drive-in sites available for RVs or campers. Additionally, RV, camper, or car camping is strictly prohibited at this location, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed camping experience for all visitors.
With its convenient location near the river access point and trailhead, campers can easily explore the surrounding natural beauty and enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. As all sites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted, visitors have the flexibility to arrive at their leisure and secure their preferred camping spot. Whether embarking on a solo adventure or enjoying a getaway with family and friends, this tent-only campground offers the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in the tranquility of the great outdoors.
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Near the charming community of Thayer, this tent-only campground offers a delightful riverside setting along the scenic banks of the New River. With 4 walk-in sites available, campers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, enjoying the tranquil sounds of the flowing water and the refreshing breeze that sweeps through the area. As there are no designated drive-in sites at this location, visitors can truly experience the serenity of riverside camping without the noise and traffic associated with vehicle access.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature, this campground provides the perfect escape. With RV, camper, or car camping prohibited, campers can fully appreciate the untouched beauty of the riverbank environment, fostering a sense of connection with the great outdoors. Moreover, with alcohol prohibited at the campground, visitors can enjoy a serene and family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for quiet evenings spent by the campfire or leisurely strolls along the river's edge. With sites managed on a first-come, first-served basis and reservations not accepted, adventurers have the flexibility to embark on spontaneous getaways, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable camping experience along the picturesque New River.
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Just a mile from the Sandstone Visitor Center, this tent-only primitive campground boasts a prime location along the picturesque New River. With 17 tent sites nestled within an expansive open field, campers can revel in the tranquility of their natural surroundings while enjoying easy access to nearby visitor amenities. Reservations are not required for individual sites, although reservations are recommended for the group site, ensuring a seamless camping experience for larger gatherings.
While this campground offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts, it's important to note that there are no drive-in sites available, and RV, trailer, or car camping is strictly prohibited. The proximity to active CSX freight railroad tracks and a railroad crossing adds an element of adventure to the camping experience, with trains passing through at various intervals throughout the day and night. Campers should be prepared for occasional train noise, including the sound of train horns echoing through the campground, adding to the unique ambiance of this riverside retreat.
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Below the imposing Summersville Dam, Gauley Tailwaters provides primitive camping options courtesy of the National Park Service, ensuring an authentic outdoor experience for visitors. With 18 drive-in sites available for both tents and RVs, campers can secure their spot on a first-come, first-served basis. While the campground offers convenient access to the surrounding natural attractions, it's essential to note that the campsites are situated in close proximity to one another, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
It's important to plan accordingly when considering a stay at Gauley Tailwaters Campground, as the site is tailored to accommodate small RVs and trailers measuring less than 25 feet in length. With no hook-ups or running water available, campers are encouraged to bring along all necessary supplies and equipment for a self-sufficient camping experience. Despite the rustic amenities, the campground's idyllic location near the Gauley River promises unparalleled opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
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While Burnwood offers the chance for a rustic retreat, it's essential to note that this campground caters exclusively to tent and RV camping, with no RV hookups available. Additionally, trailers are not permitted within the campground, ensuring a more secluded and intimate camping experience amidst the natural splendor of the area. With its convenient location near the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, Burnwood serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the wonders of the nearby attractions and embarking on outdoor adventures in the heart of nature.
Found just across Route 19 from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, Burnwood beckons with its tranquil setting and group camping facilities. However, access to this site requires securing a Special Use Permit in advance, ensuring an exclusive experience for campers. Offering a primitive camping environment, Burnwood accommodates both tent and RV camping, providing an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
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Rifrafters Campground is in a quiet area just miles away from the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville, West Virginia. RV and tent camping is available alongside rustic cabin rentals. The family-friendly property is spread across 44 acres.
On-site, you can enjoy a convenience store stocked with various items, including ice and firewood. There is also a playground as well as a bathhouse that offers clean restrooms and hot showers. In addition, free Wi-Fi is provided, and both sunny and shaded campsites are available to campers.
“Rifrafters” takes the cake! Very clean and well maintained by the friendly staff, the bath houses were the nicest I have ever seen at a campground. The lady who checked us in was very nice, gave great recommendations for food in the local area, and made sure that we had everything we needed for the night.” – Dominic, Google Reviews
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Moving a bit further away from Camden Park, there are more options for campgrounds. One of which is the Beckley Exhibition Mine Campground. This unique park is right next door to a historic underground coal mine, where guests can explore history in an exciting way. Scenic, full hookup sites are among the perks of this park.
With a two hour drive, you may not be heading to Camden Park every day of your vacation, but it’s certainly worth the drive for a day or two of fun. But for as little as $25 a night, it’s worth the extra distance for those who are looking to keep a tight budget. Plus, you certainly won’t be bored on the days that you don’t head to Camden Park – during your stay at these campsites, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the coal camp, enjoy guided tours of the underground mine, and interact at hands-on exhibits.
“We were able to call and get a reservation on our way home, and truly just needed a campsite for about 10 hours. The owner was extremely friendly and helped us get into our spot when we arrived after dark. The bathhouses were very clean, and you are given a code to type in to gain entry…We would stay here again!” – Carolina, Tripadvisor
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This Tams, West Virginia Campground is for campers who are looking for something that’s off the beaten path, so to speak. Located on 10,000 acres, Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park is home to over 100 miles of ATV trails and a 1.25 mile professionally designed motocross track! If you love thrilling adventure, check out Burning Rock!
The trails that run through this park range from “beginner friendly” to “enter at your own risk”, so you can ride the difficulty level that suits your experience. ATV rentals and guided tours are also available for campers that are just getting started. The campsite itself has convenient amenities such as an ATV wash rack, clean showers and restrooms, and even a general store.
“Wonderful place to ride ATVs and there are tons of community activities.” – Jessica, Google reviews
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If thrill-seeking isn’t really your thing, you might want to check out Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse. This quaint park is perfect for campers who want to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and get some good old fashioned R&R. It’s squeaky clean facilities, unique amenities, and friendly hospitality make it worth the long drive to Camden Park. It truly lives up to its name of “retreat”!
The lakefront is a huge perk of camping at Summersville, and you can really get the most out of it during your stay. Visit the one of a kind lighthouse, rent a pontoon boat, kayak, or canoe, or just relax on the shore. There’s no better place for enjoying a lakefront vacation and Camden Park, letting you one of the best RV trips in West Virginia!
“Excellent place to stay. Beautiful views. Love the staff, everyone is very friendly.” – Holley, Google reviews
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This campground in Summersville might be a bit of a drive from Camden Park, but they make up for it in strides with all that they offer. Unique amenities including a pizza shop, ice cream shop, after hours security, and a country store make it a special place to stay. There are even tank services, where you can have your tank empties for a small fee. If that’s not the epitome of convenience, we don’t know what is!
All of your loved ones will have a blast at Mountain Lake Campground. Not only is it family-friendly, it’s also pet-friendly, so you don’t have to leave Fido at home. Firewood and ice, golf cart rentals, and a camp store can make your stay even more convenient! And when it comes to fun, Mountain Lake is hard to beat – a beach, swimming pool, jumping pillow, mini golf course, basketball court, and outdoor theater are just the beginning of what this resort-style campground brings to the table!
“We have stayed at this park several times and it is one of my favorites. The campground is well kept, has nice sites and cabins and absolutely love the new wedding area…I highly recommend this campground as a destination any time of year.” – Kay, TripAdvisor
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If you love the outdoors, you’ll love Pipestem RV Park & Campground. Located only a mile from the entrance of Pipestem State Park, the park is surrounded by areas that are filled with opportunities to enjoy all that Mother ture has to offer- rivers, waterfalls, caves, caverns, and forests are just some of the sights! There’s also a host of exciting adventures waiting to be had, such as rock climbing and whitewater rafting!
The nearby thrilling activities aren’t the only draw to this park- it’s also a relaxing getaway. If you had a long day exploring West Virginia, you can return to the park to enjoy the simple comforts of full hookup camping sites, the warmth of a fire, and spending quality time with your loved ones. On top of that, you’ll be able to take advantage of wireless internet connections, an on-site convenience store, and clean laundry facilities.
“Spent one night in the campground in early August. It is a beautiful campground, with large wooded sites…all in all a very nice campground and one that we would like to return to someday for a longer stay. There’s a lot to do at the park, from miniature golf to boating to frisbee golf to horseback riding, and much more.” – Robert, Yelp Reviews
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Another perfect park for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts, Ashland Resort is surrounded by trails. You can set up your toy hauler at your site, unload your vehicle, and have a blast exploring the Indian Ridge Trail that runs through the campground, which also connects to the Pocahontas and Pinnacle Trails. There’s no need to run into town either, you can gas up your vehicles at the on-site camp store. Ashland Resort has it all!
While the trails are the main event at Ashland, the facilities are up to par as well. Every single site has a fire pit, picnic table, and wireless internet access. There are also sites available with full hookups and cable tv. There are two full-service bathrooms that have plenty of hot water available, a pay-per-use laundromat, and a covered camper kitchen. The camp store has all the supplies you might need- from gloves and helmets to snacks and groceries, you’ll be taken care of!
“It’s beautiful and amazing!! Had so much fun!!” – James, Google reviews
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Lazy K’s Campground and Canoe Livery is situated directly on the Elk River. During your stay at the campground, you’ll have over 70 acres to explore. In addition to the large grounds, Lazy K’s offers a convenient location that is just minutes from Interstate 79.
This campground is situated in a beautiful area of West Virginia where you can enjoy solitude and wildlife. You have opportunities to go ATV riding, fishing, mountain biking, and even white-water rafting. During your stay, you can enjoy full hookups, and there are also dump stations and central fresh-water fills available to RVers.
“A little off the beaten path in the West Virginia (woody) hills, but well worth it, great park, Clean, large spaces, surrounded by beautiful wildlife. Very peaceful / relaxing place. Management very friendly, Kenny is a great host. My wife and I enjoyed the time spent here.” – Steve, Google Reviews
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Located in the Appalachian Mountains on 250 acres of land. Portions were previously strip mined creating some flat fields and access to all property. Strip mining if done properly can and does enhance the property. Ponds were built to catch runoff and several new animal species moved in waterfowl, muskrats, and beavers. The beavers have constructed large dams on property further adding to the beauty. Have seen bears, deer and several bald eagles on and around the property.
Beaverlakes Campground has spacious sites and the hosts are very friendly. There is over 250 acres in total to enjoy all of mother nature and the views of the campground. A convenience store is located only 2 minutes away while the small city of Craigsville is less than 10 minutes away. The larger town of Summersville is only 15 minutes away.
“This is an amazing campground where you will find organic camping location with the luxury of full hookups. John is an awesome host and made sure we had everything to our liking for our stay. He even let us explore his vast property to enjoy views and serenity. This campground is away from rush and about half and hour away from New River Gorge National Park and several other places to hike and enjoy the streams of Birch River etc. Will definitely come back again when visiting the area or passing by which we do atleast once a year.” – Raheel Rao, Google Reviews
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Originally a mining and logging site in West Virginia, the Kanawha State Forest has become a popular place to camp and explore nature. In addition to the range of trails that can be found here, outdoor activities like fishing and geocaching are popular. Since the rates are so affordable, you may want to stay a few extra days.
Kanawha State Forest is a great place to get close to nature. The 9,300-acre forest is filled with hiking and biking trails for you to explore. Along the way, you are bound to encounter some of the unique birds and wildflowers that can be found in the area. If you prefer rustic surroundings, this is some of the best RV camping near Huntington, West Virginia.
“A great park right in the backyard of Charleston. Lots of choices for a hike or bike ride. Depending on the trail, some trail heads aren’t well marked from the road so you’ll need to do some research first before going. Worth it though!” – Scott, Google Reviews
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Guests at Greenbrier River Campground are able to enjoy eight acres of picturesque riverside. The RV sites are lined with tall trees and have a great view of the river. The grounds also offer a bathhouse, laundry facility, swimming area, and a number of different water activities. You can relax, enjoy the water, and feel at home at Greenbrier!
Why You’ll Love Greenbrier River Campground While the beauty and the calm of the trickling river add a lot of charm to this campground, that’s not all it adds. The river isn’t just there for you to enjoy looking at- it’s there for fun! Swimming and fishing are a huge point of interest at this park. You can also take advantage of full-service tubing, kayak, and canoe trips! Different parts of the river are suitable for different skill levels so you can get on the river no matter how much or how little experience you have!
“I had a great time, next to the river. Rented a kayak at a fair price and sailed down the river. Toilets and shower area are very clean and Wi-Fi worked good enough for a campsite. I will be back here one day.” – Olafur, Google reviews
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Little Coal River Campground is a smaller RV park in the area. However, it is close to a number of attractions and offers affordable rates. This year-round campground is located on the Little Coal River Trail System.
This campground offers cabins as well as full-service RV and tent sites. The on-site bathhouse is heated and air-conditioned, and there is direct access to the Little Coal River Trails from the park. Nearby, you can drive out to Water Ways Southridge Grand Prix and many other attractions.
“Nice little park hard off of US 119/Corridor G. Not a ton of amenities, but this is Boone County WV. River mere feet from our site, Hatfield-McCoy trail access, & river is a great kayak trip. We stop here every time we passing thru.” – Bill, Google Reviews
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Do you love thrill-seeking and adventure-hunting? If you do, you’ve got to check out Twin Hollow Campground. Set in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, this park is surrounded by countless off-road trails. You can hitch up your toy hauler, or find great RV rentals in West Virginia, and get the most out of your trip to the mountains.
With the countless ATV trails plus access to the Hatfield McCoy Trails, there are tons to keep you busy; and you’ll still be able to visit Camden Park, which is about two hours away. The best part, though, is that after a long day of excitement, you can sit back and relax at a full hookup site surrounded by the serenity of Mother Nature, and then do it all again the next day!
“What an awesome campground! Everyone here is so friendly and nice! Love that it is family run. We had campsite #12 and it was the best on the lot! Clean bathhouses and they bring water in. Trail 12 BBQ was absolutely delicious. Short ride to town. Can’t wait to go back!” – Katrina, Google reviews
Beyond its natural splendor, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides a window into the region's rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore historic sites and learn more about the area's past. Whether you're drawn to the thrills of extreme sports or prefer a more laid-back experience, the park caters to diverse interests, promising unforgettable experiences for all who venture into its breathtaking landscapes.
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.