The Pearisburg area offers access to both mountain and river terrain with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,400 feet. Camping opportunities span the New River valley with numerous options within 30-45 minutes of Pearisburg. Seasonal temperature variations can be significant, with summer highs reaching the upper 80s and winter nights dropping below freezing.
What to do
Biking access: The New River Trail is accessible just blocks from Fries New RiverTrail RV Park, providing 57 miles of recreational pathway. "We rode the first 6 miles (and back) of the New River Trail to the train trestle and through the tunnel, just beyond. Easy ride with 2% grade," notes one camper who appreciated the convenience.
Water recreation: Inflatable water activities are available at Pipestem RV Park & Campground during summer months. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," reports a visitor with a 37-foot travel trailer.
Disc golf: Several campgrounds offer outdoor gaming options beyond standard hiking. "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!" mentions a visitor to Chantilly Farm, noting the variety of recreational options.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Free camping at Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides direct river access. "Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles. Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite," reports a camper who appreciated the facilities despite the rustic setting.
Privacy levels: Sites at many campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. "Outside perimeter sites are wooded and offer more privacy. Though all sites are separated by 50 ft or more," explains one visitor describing the layout at Army Camp, highlighting the spacing between campsites.
Evening atmosphere: Communal experiences enhance many campgrounds. "There is a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights," shares a motorcyclist about Willville Motorcycle Camp. Another visitor notes, "Late in the afternoon, there were some musicians staying next to us who were playing banjo and fiddle."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds require navigation of narrow roads. "There is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast," warns a visitor to Shady Rest RV Park.
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna can impact camping experiences. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must," cautions a reviewer about Pipestem's nocturnal visitors.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly by location. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)" explains one camper at Army Camp, highlighting how connectivity influenced their stay duration.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to younger visitors. "The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms..." notes a visitor to Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
Swimming options: Water access varies between locations. "Noticed multiple people utilizing the fishing pond and there was a cornhole tournament going on at the other side of the park," reports a visitor describing recreational options at Brushcreek Falls.
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences beyond camping. "Check out some of the mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, about 30 minutes away, and get up early to catch the sunrise from Grandview Point," suggests a visitor familiar with attractions near Army Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different areas within campgrounds offer varying benefits. "If you want easy level spots row c is best (which is where 50 amps are)," advises an RVer about Summer Wind RV Park, providing specific information about optimal placement.
Road navigation: Access routes can present challenges for larger rigs. "The campground is fairly well kept. We spent our time on the Hatfield/McCoy trails which were about 20 minutes from the campground," mentions a visitor to Brushcreek Falls, noting the proximity to popular trails.
Hookup considerations: Water pressure varies between locations. "Even though we were in the back, the wifi worked great the entire time. Being at the end of the water line for the park, our pressure wasn't great so we used our fresh water tank and water pump for showers and to wash dishes," shares an RVer who stayed at Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
