Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides rustic camping near Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania with sites nestled along the Virginia-West Virginia border. The area features a mix of grassy clearings and wooded terrain at elevations ranging from 700-900 feet. Seasonal hunting activities affect camping availability, with restrictions during designated hunting seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Edwards Run offers basic fishing experiences suitable for beginners. As one visitor noted, it's a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired." The small waterways contain modest fish populations but provide an accessible introduction to the activity.
Hiking exploration: The wildlife management area contains unmarked paths beyond the roadside camping area. Campers report finding more secluded spots by venturing further into the property. According to one visitor, "There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em."
Wildlife observation: The management area supports various wildlife populations. Early morning and evening hours provide the best viewing opportunities. Deer, small mammals, and bird species inhabit the area year-round.
What campers like
Budget-friendly option: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides free or low-cost camping near Buffalo Mills. Though one camper mentioned, "As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay," many visitors report not being charged or contacted about payment.
Level camping surfaces: The roadside area offers practical camping surfaces. One camper confirmed, "the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site." This makes tent setup straightforward for overnight stays.
Minimal regulations: The management area has fewer restrictions than developed campgrounds. Fires are permitted in established rings, and pets are allowed throughout the property without additional fees or breed restrictions.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Primitive camping near Buffalo Mills means preparing for minimal amenities. While basic toilets and trash collection exist, campers must bring all water supplies. No showers, hookups, or other conveniences are available on site.
Navigation challenges: The wildlife management area lacks detailed signage or marked camping spaces. First-time visitors should arrive during daylight hours to locate suitable sites.
Uncertain fee structure: Payment procedures remain unclear. A visitor noted, "I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either. However no one came by." Campers should bring cash in case fee collection occurs during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Families should consider the trade-off between convenience and seclusion. The roadside area offers easier access but less privacy. One camper recommended, "Just gotta hike to em" when referring to better sites further into the property.
Basic fishing instruction: The waterways provide a low-pressure environment for teaching fishing fundamentals. Keep expectations modest regarding catch size and quantity, as this area is better suited for practice than serious angling.
Wildlife safety measures: Store food properly in sealed containers and vehicle trunks. While large predators are uncommon, small mammals may investigate improperly secured food items.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The access roads and camping areas accommodate small to medium recreational vehicles only. Large rigs and motorhomes will find maneuvering difficult on the narrow access roads.
No hookups available: RVers must be fully self-contained when staying at Edwards Run. No electrical, water, or sewer connections exist at any sites, and no dump station is available on the property.
Leveling requirements: While roadside areas are relatively flat, RVers should bring leveling blocks. The natural terrain creates slight gradients even in designated camping areas.
