War Ridge - New River National Scenic River

This primitive campground sits along a curvy mountain road about a mile from the main route, accessible to RVs up to 30 feet despite the winding approach. War Ridge provides basic facilities including portable toilets and picnic tables, with campfires and pets both permitted on the grounds managed by the National Park Service.

Campers consistently report strong cell service here, an unusual advantage for backcountry camping in West Virginia. The sites offer limited shade but provide expansive views of the night sky once darkness falls. Most visitors find themselves alone or sharing the area with just one or two other parties, creating a notably quiet atmosphere most evenings.

"Not much shade but beautiful night sky," observes Tim M., reflecting the open terrain that characterizes this ridge-top location. The campground sits near hunting areas, so seasonal firearm activity occurs in the vicinity. Sites are positioned relatively close together, though the typically low occupancy means privacy rarely becomes an issue.

For campers wanting more developed facilities, Glade Creek Campground offers additional amenities about 2.4 miles southwest.

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Location

Public Campground

War Ridge - New River National Scenic River is located in West Virginia

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.84600032 N
80.97500067 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/26/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/26/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


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Reviews

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34%
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17%

4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the peaceful mountain setting and spectacular night skies as major draws. The primitive campground offers solitude but lacks shade and facilities beyond a port-a-john. One serious safety incident involving suspected drug activity was reported.

Reviewed Oct. 8, 2021

DO NOT STAY HERE-UNSAFE

This is a beautiful campground BUT at dark we were surrounded by IMMENSE drug trafficking activity. We left IMMEDIATELY after someone drove INTO our campsite clearly drugged out, speaking nonsense. 911 was unable to help (very spotty service and disinterested dispatcher). We thought we found an amazing place but we will never put ourselves in this harrowing situation again.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2021

Out of the way

Primitive campground. Lots of stars! No facilities other than a port-a-John. Could use a trash can but otherwise good. I was the only one there. My only complaint was around 2200 when someone, probably a local, drove in and started a fire while listening to country music on their car stereo. Close to a hunting area and there was a firearm discharge around 2300. After that the car went away and it was quiet. Not really near anything so I didn’t stay a second night. Had AT&T cell signal.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of War Ridge - New River National Scenic River by LeAnn , October 1, 2021
Reviewed Sep. 23, 2019

Peaceful

Very peaceful website. No shade and campsites are close but the setup is great.

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2019

Awesome

We were there 4 days extremely peaceful ..only one other camper .. not much shade but beautiful night sky !! Minimal cell service .. 1 mile curvy mountain climb to get here but our 30 ft class A made it just fine !!

  • Review photo of War Ridge - New River National Scenic River by Tim M., July 18, 2019
  • Review photo of War Ridge - New River National Scenic River by Tim M., July 18, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 1, 2019

War Ridge is beautiful!

I am currently at War Ridge and it is splendid. I am alone up here (no other campers) and the night sky is amazing. Perk: you have cell signal. It is quiet and peaceful and the view is amazing. 10/10 highly recommend. I would add a picture, but it's dark right now and you can't see much but the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at War Ridge Campground?

War Ridge Campground is a primitive campsite with minimal amenities. The facilities are limited to a porta-potty, with no running water, electricity, or shower facilities available. There are designated camping spots but no shade structures. The campground lacks trash receptacles, so visitors should plan to pack out all waste. Despite the minimal facilities, the campground offers spectacular night sky viewing and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for self-sufficient campers who enjoy a more rustic experience.

How do I access War Ridge Campground and is 4WD required?

War Ridge Campground is accessed via a curvy mountain road with approximately one mile of climbing to reach the site. While 4WD is not strictly required, the road is steep and winding. Larger vehicles, including 30-foot Class A motorhomes, can navigate the road successfully with careful driving. The campground sits at a higher elevation, which contributes to the excellent views but requires navigating the mountain access road.

Is reservation required for War Ridge Campground?

Reservations are not required at War Ridge Campground. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground frequently has low occupancy, with many visitors reporting they were either alone or sharing the area with just one other camping party. However, it's advisable to arrive early during peak camping seasons to secure a spot. For the most current information on any policy changes, contact the New River National Scenic River administration.

What recreational activities are available near War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground?

War Ridge Campground offers exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution, making astronomy a popular activity. The location provides beautiful views for photography and nature observation. While specific trails aren't mentioned, the campground's location in the New River National Scenic River area suggests opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing nearby. The peaceful setting is ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature. Visitors should note that cell service is available but can be spotty, and the remote location means you should come prepared with your own recreational equipment and supplies.