Dispersed camping options near Alum Creek, West Virginia offer alternatives to established RV parks and campgrounds. The area sits in the Appalachian Mountain region with elevations ranging from 600-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons bring milder conditions and fewer crowds at primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Army Camp in New River Gorge provides direct river access with multiple spots for anglers. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," notes Jean C. about Army Camp.
Hiking trails: Kanawha State Forest features multiple trail systems for day hikes from campsites. A visitor mentioned, "Not bad for an overnight, and a nice walk in the woods before we left in the morning," about their experience at Kanawha State Forest.
Water recreation: Robert Newlon Airpark offers Ohio River views and proximity to water activities. "The Ohio river is visible," reports Cheryl T., though she cautions about train tracks nearby at Robert Newlon Airpark RV Park.
What campers like
Free camping options: Several free camping locations exist near Alum Creek. At Saint Albans Roadside Park, Andrea W. discovered "Wonderful overnight stop. Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max."
River proximity: Many campers appreciate sites near waterways. At Army Camp, one camper enjoyed "evening river dips before bed" and mentioned that "it's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river," according to Tucker B.
Quiet environments: Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds offers a peaceful atmosphere away from urban noise. "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. My 25 year old son was the youngest person there," observed Doug at Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close during winter months. Rifrafters Campground notes specific operating dates: "April 1 to Nov 1, open all year for RV," which differs from year-round operations at other locations.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Army Camp, Tucker B. noted "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)."
Road conditions: Access to certain campgrounds requires careful navigation. For Kanawha State Forest, one reviewer warned, "After you get off the highway expect narrow twists and turns to reach the park, the park itself isn't nearly as bad as the stretch between highway and park entrance."
Weather preparedness: Flash flooding can occur in river valleys. "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive…30 ft from our tent pad," reported Dave V. at Rifrafters Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Saint Albans Roadside Park offers family-friendly amenities. "It has 3 spots for RV's. No tent camping spots but right beside a park for kids and right on the river," explains Teresa Q.
Swimming options: Several RV sites near Alum Creek, West Virginia feature water recreation for kids. At Oasis Point RV Resort, Karen P. shares, "They have a large pond that has a nice beach, a huge slide and a zip line. They have kayaks, paddle boards and floats first come first serve."
Bathroom facilities: For families needing reliable facilities, consider campgrounds with maintained restrooms. "The big multiple use bathroom by the entrance was much better and air was fresher," noted Doug at Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds regarding their facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should check site conditions before setup. At Rippling Waters, Larry noted, "Our site was fairly level, had to use a few blocks on the driver side."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have heavily treated water systems. "Water also had a strong odor of chlorine. After showers I felt like I was just getting out of a pool," reported Larry at Rippling Waters.
Road clearance: Some access roads present challenges for larger RVs. At Rifrafters, Cassondra P. observed, "It is very much built into a big hill- I was a little worried our Avion (similar to airstream) that had low clearance would bottom out as we came in and out of entrance hill to road but we had no issue."
Pull-through availability: Long RVs benefit from certain sites that offer easier access. At Rippling Waters, Debbie F. reported, "We were placed in a pull thru on the lake. What a spot!! We watched the resident swan swim around the fountain."
