The New River valley near Athens, West Virginia sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, with camping options spanning from riverside locations to mountain-adjacent sites. Seasonal considerations affect access to several campgrounds, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping remains available at select parks, though amenities may be limited.
What to do
Hiking on historic trails: The New River Gorge National Park offers several trails near Army Camp Campground, including the Glade Creek Trail which follows an old railroad bed. "The campground is close to the New River Trail so we walked and biked the trail every day. It was a beautiful area," shares a visitor to Fries New RiverTrail RV Park.
Fishing access: Multiple locations provide direct water access for anglers seeking various fish species. "The New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," notes a camper at Glade Creek Campground, adding that the "second oldest river in the world" creates excellent fishing conditions.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to observe local animals. "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," reports a Spring 2024 visitor to Summer Wind RV Park. Birdwatchers can also spot numerous species, with one camper mentioning, "Heard a Barred Owl at night."
What campers like
Natural water features: The confluence of waterways creates swimming and paddling opportunities. "We enjoyed evening river dips before bed," reports a visitor to Army Camp, where the New River access provides cooling relief during summer months.
Spacious campsites: Several parks feature well-designed layouts with adequate room between sites. "Beautiful with large campsites and fantastic scenery," notes a reviewer at Pipestem RV Park & Campground, mentioning their accommodation of "a 37' travel trailer" with ample space.
Mountain views: The regional topography creates scenic backdrops visible from many campsites. One camper at Summer Wind RV Park described "stunning view of the pastures" and "views of the West Virginia mountains," noting the campground "overlooks a cow pasture" creating a peaceful rural setting.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some parks requires navigating challenging roads. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in," warns a camper at Army Camp, while another notes, "When getting here, make sure and come early" as the limited spaces fill quickly.
Seasonal operation: Some rv parks near Athens, West Virginia close during colder months. Summer Wind RV Park operates only "May 1 to Oct 15," requiring winter travelers to seek year-round alternatives like Fort Chiswell RV Park which offers "very relaxing" conditions throughout the year.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local fauna interactions at campgrounds. "There were about a half dozen skunks. Kinda kept me on edge," reports a visitor to Meador Campground, while another camper notes, "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple parks offer dedicated facilities for children. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available," according to a visitor at Lake Ridge RV Resort, who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Campground layout: Seek areas with safe spaces for kids to play. "The road is paved making it easy for the little ones to ride bikes," notes a Meador Campground visitor, while another mentions there's "lots of space to run around for the kids."
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer supervised swimming areas. "The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms," describes one visitor, while another notes Pipestem has "giant water inflatables" during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and setup: Site conditions vary across rv parks in Athens, West Virginia vicinity. "Sites are mostly level, hookups are convenient," reports a visitor to Fort Chiswell RV Park, noting its popularity for overnight stays along I-81.
Cellular connectivity: Signal strength fluctuates throughout the region. "AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars" at Summer Wind RV Park according to a Spring 2024 visitor, while another camper reports "Starlink access was excellent as there is not a single tree to obstruct the view!"
Full hookup availability: Water and electric service levels differ between parks. "We spent time on the Hatfield/McCoy trails which were about 20 minutes from the campground," noted a Brushcreek Falls visitor, appreciating the full hookups after outdoor adventures, while another mentioned the convenience of "long but pretty close together" pull-through sites.
