A single dirt road winds through this dispersed camping area in Monongahela National Forest, with sites positioned directly alongside the route at roughly half-mile intervals. The first few miles remain accessible to standard vehicles and smaller RVs, though the road surface becomes increasingly challenging for those venturing deeper into the backcountry.
Fire rings mark each of the available camping spots, which vary considerably in size and layout. Some sites accommodate little more than a single vehicle backup, while others provide space for multiple tents and cars. Most spots sit surrounded by forest, with several positioned near a creek that runs through the area. "The moss was like walking on carpet," notes Justine I., describing the forest floor conditions.
Trail access opens directly from many campsites, connecting to hiking and mountain biking routes throughout the region. Cross-country skiing trails wind through the area during winter months, and the 3,000-foot elevation creates conditions suitable for snow sports. The proximity to Blackwater Falls State Park Campground adds hiking options, with some sites offering a four-mile trail connection to the state park.
Road conditions require attention, particularly after wet weather when mud becomes an issue. Ric M. explains that "all of the sites are RIGHT NEXT to that dirt road, so others will be driving past your site," though traffic remains light with primarily other campers and occasional hunters using the route. Winter access depends on snow conditions and minimal road maintenance.
For those preferring developed facilities, Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground provides full amenities four miles south.
Description
Recreation areas with activity Dispersed Camping: There are at least 7 dispersed camp sites Along Canaan Loop Road.
Camping Tips Bring drinking water; otherwise, treat water from streams and springs before drinking to kill harmful pathogens. Vigorously boil local water for at least three minutes, or use a filter which is specifically labeled for removal of Giardia. Chemical treatments (iodine and chlorine) are not considered effective. Freezing temperatures and snow can occur anytime of the year, but mainly between October and April. Dress for the weather. Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not build a camp within 200 feet of streams. Light weight camping stoves are encouraged. If using firewood it must be dead AND down branches only. Keep fires small. During hunting seasons, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCanaan Loop Road Dispersed is located in West Virginia near Davis
Coordinates
39.07618579 N
79.46848555 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/15/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/15/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 32 min from Morgantown, WV
- 1 hr 40 min from Morgantown, WV
- 1 hr 43 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 51 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 53 min from Harrisonburg, VA
- 2 hrs 3 min from Harrisonburg, VA
