Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers primitive dispersed camping in a natural setting. Located in Hampshire County, West Virginia, about 15 miles from Gore, Virginia, this area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the eastern panhandle region. The camping area features basic facilities with several sites accessible by vehicle, though more remote spots require short hikes to reach.
What to do
Fishing on small ponds: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area has a small pond where visitors can fish, though it's better for beginners than serious anglers. "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired," notes Frank G. in his review of Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area.
Shooting sports: The Cove Campground offers an outdoor shooting range as part of its recreational options. "On top of them having an outdoor gun range... they have a small beach, picnic tabels everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats, ATVs welcome," explains Shanna B., who visits frequently.
Hiking trails: Shenandoah River State Park provides extensive hiking options within a reasonable drive. "Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners. Campground access to the Shenandoah River," states Laura N. in her review of Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
ATV and off-road trails: For those bringing off-road vehicles, several campgrounds accommodate this activity. "This was our first time camping here and it will NOT be our last. This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," shares Ben M. about his experience at The Cove Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Camp Cacapon provides privacy in a wooded setting. "What a hidden gem Camp Capapon, is. This is exactly my idea of camping. Beautiful place, tucked in the woods, right next to the river. The RV campsite is spacious, private, shaded, and with full hook-ups," says Saskia H. about Camp Cacapon.
River access: Camping near water remains a top draw for campers in the Gore area. "There are several rustic campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins," notes Ricki F. about Shenandoah River State Park.
Pet-friendly environments: Dog friendly campgrounds near Gore typically offer good space for pets. "We stayed in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far. The showers are even farther-like a 15-20 minute walk with bad signage directing to," mentions Nancy L. about The Cove Campground, highlighting aspects to consider when bringing pets.
Variety of accommodation options: Many locations offer multiple camping styles. "We stayed in two brand new, enormous glamping tents. Each tent had two comfy queen-size beds, a heater, a fan, and two lamps with USB ports," shares Snezana H. about her experience at Camp Cacapon.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough roads requiring specific vehicles. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," notes Christopher K. about The Cove Campground.
Amenity limitations: Camping near Gore often means compromising on certain facilities. "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. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either," reports Jim M. about Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs greatly between locations. "Cell service in the area for both AT&T and Verizon was poor. I do not know if this was due to the terrain or lack of towers," shares Dave B. about Harpers Ferry KOA.
Reservation systems: Each campground has its own approach to bookings. "You can't make a reservation in advance, you have to take a chance that there will be a site available," explains Benjamin L. about Green Ridge State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's spaces. "The campground features a nice pool, 2 playgrounds, neat bikes you can rent, gold cart rentals. Best of all, they sell bags of special stones and fossils for you to mine. My boys had a blast with that!" says Leanne B. about Candy Hill Campground.
Water features: Swimming options matter for family comfort during warmer months. "This is a great place with a lot to offer. We stayed in the campground with about 30 other families from our church. Everyone had a great time playing in the pond, kayaking, hiking around," shares Brian M. about his experience at Buffalo Gap Retreat.
Bathroom proximity: Consider facilities when camping with children. "The bathhouse is clean with separate shower rooms," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Shenandoah River State Park, which can be important for families.
Educational opportunities: Several pet friendly camping options near Gore provide learning experiences. "There are tons of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park. This state park is adjacent to Shenandoah National Park and is just as beautiful and rich in history!" explains Ricki F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require work to position RVs properly. "Site #1 off of 15 mile creek Road... Great cell and internet reception with AT&T. We have a 25' travel trailer and most places we scouted we probably couldn't take it. Site 2 looks not too bad but a little less level," advises Josh G. about Green Ridge State Forest.
Hookup considerations: Water quality varies between locations. "Large grassy sites. Easy to maneuver. Lots of open space. Clean bath house. Helpful owners. The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet," warns Adam and Suzanne B. about Lazy A Campground.
RV certification requirements: Some campgrounds have specific policies about RVs. "Made online Reservations without any problem. Walked into the campground office to get my spot & the first question was 'Do you have an RVIA Number'. That is when I was told I could not stay at Candy Hill," cautions a reviewer about restrictions at Candy Hill Campground.
Size restrictions: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "We have a 34' travel trailer and although the site was narrow, it was easily long enough to fit our needs. If we hadn't had an end spot, I would have felt a little crowded with my next door neighbor," shares Erin S. about Harpers Ferry KOA.