Free dispersed camping at Gaudineer Knob runs along a half-mile loop trail off a small parking area that includes a cassette toilet and a trash bin. Sites are compact, most with a picnic table and fire ring, and the loop holds at least ten spots spaced closely together, making it a better fit for solo campers or small groups than large parties. Campers exploring dispersed spots near Monongahela National Forest will find this one among the more distinctive, given its dense spruce canopy and moss-covered forest floor. No reservation required. The site sits within Monongahela National Forest near Shavers Fork Dispersed Campsites to the west, giving those building a multi-night itinerary in the area a nearby alternative.
Description
This scenic area is managed to feature an undisturbed condition of the West Virginia highlands for study and enjoyment. Maintaining the natural appearance of the area is an essential management goal here.
Approximately 50 acres of the Gaudineer Scenic Area is typical of, and considered part of, the virgin red spruce type that originally occupied large portions of the highland areas of West Virginia. The composition of this impressive timber stand consists of virgin and second growth red spruce, yellow birch, beech, red maple, sugar maple and other hardwood species. Individual trees range up to 40 inches in diameter at breast height and 300 years of age.
While the remaining 90 acres has had some cutting, mainly salvage of blow-down, most of the original growth still is standing. The total wood volume of the 140 acre tract is estimated at one and a half million board feet.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGaudineer Knob camp sites is located in West Virginia near Durbin
Coordinates
38.614695145059216 N
79.84344665593278 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- 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 51 min from Harrisonburg, VA
- 2 hrs from Morgantown, WV
- 2 hrs 16 min from Charlottesville, VA







