136 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Allegheny Mountains surrounding Aurora, West Virginia feature a diverse range of camping experiences within an hour's drive. Blackwater Falls State Park, approximately 20 miles north, offers 65 campsites with both electric and non-electric options in a forested setting. Nearby Canaan Valley Resort State Park provides year-round accommodations with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Canaan Loop Road offers free dispersed camping in the Monongahela National Forest, while Red Creek Campground provides basic facilities near hiking trails. The region's camping options span from full-service resorts to remote backcountry sites, with most established campgrounds operating from April through October.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping in this mountainous region. As one camper noted, "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months." Many campgrounds close completely during winter, with roads to higher elevations like Dolly Sods becoming impassable from December through April. Cell service remains limited throughout the area, particularly at more remote sites. Gravel roads with potholes are common, especially when accessing forest service campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended for established campgrounds during summer weekends and fall foliage season when visitors flock to the area. Temperature variations can be significant, with higher elevations remaining cool even during summer months.
Wildlife encounters are frequently mentioned in camper reviews, with deer sightings common at dawn and dusk. According to one visitor to Canaan Valley, "There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore! Someone saw a black bear on the trail." Campgrounds near water features like Blackwater Falls and Horseshoe Recreation Area receive consistently high ratings for their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Site privacy varies considerably across the region, with some campgrounds offering well-separated, wooded sites while others feature more open layouts. Visitors frequently mention the area's hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing opportunities as highlights. Campers should be prepared for afternoon rain showers even during summer months, and proper food storage is essential in this bear country.
"Blackwater State Park, Davis, WV https://wvstateparks.com/park/blackwater-falls-state-park/ Camping anywhere in West Virginia is a highlight, but this area offers hiking views aplenty."
"This was our first stay in a state park campground in West Virginia and it was a great stay. Arrived during a steady downpour and rented a cabin for the first night but camped the second night."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"Camp ground was just a few minute drive away from the entrance to the trail. Trails were easy enough for kids. Camp site itself was nice and clean but felt a little too close to each other."
"Thirdly, the campground was so close to the nature that we wanted to see. We went to see the falls and they were within walking distance from our campsite. Overall, it was an awesome place to camp."
from $22 - $33 / night
Check Availability"This is a hidden gem right outside of town. We utilized one of the rv sites with 50 amp service and full hookups."
"It sets at the end of a side street (Walnut St) at the edge of town (Parsons). A small, quaint mountain town."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Camp site(Tent camping) Camp site was pretty small and close to each other. The forest where the camp site was situated was beautiful."
"Lots of touristy things around the lake, then you drive by lots of vacation homes on the lakeshore and then you pull into the camp and you feel like you are miles away from all that stuff."
from $21 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Great place to connect with family in the wide open spaces of West Virginia. Very nice bathroom facilities,no bath house but plenty of water."
"If you use solar, ironically, the sites around the loop/with electric, are your best bet as there is a large open field in the middle; a second loop contains more primitive sites and some walk-in sites"
from $20 - $125 / night
Check Availability"road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that"
"The one downside, if you are into privacy, is that all of the sites are RIGHT NEXT to that dirt road, so others will be driving past your site."
"This is the largest state forest in West Virginia, it has a total of 25 sites that vary in their privacy. Each site has electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire grates, and utility post."
"There is also a small laundry room with dishwashing sink behind the bathhouse. Both ice and firewood are sold onsite."
from $25 - $48 / night
Check Availability"But other than the falls, this park has everything the other does, and even a lake. Most come here for the cabins."
"This lake (the main attraction of the state park) is one of my husband’s favorite fishing spots, especially on the kayaks. "
"I stayed two nights at site 2 which is tucked away from most of the other sites, save for one close by."
"It is away from everything and it is surrounded by a ton of hiking trails. Great camping, great hiking."
"The plan was to camp and hike throughout West Virginia, but when we visited Pathfinder outdoor retailer in Morgantown, WV the staff encouraged us to check out Ohiopyle, while we were so close."
"Very close to two Frank Lloyd Wright properties– Kentuck Knob and the more widely known Falling Waters."
from $24 - $80 / night
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ScoutThis campground is very basic. The area is very remote. Make sure you bring supplies. Going out to eat is at least a 30-minute drive. Floating the loop at Big Bend is one of the best things you can do without traveling away from the camping area. Seneca Rocks, Smoke Hole Caverns, and Seneca Caverns are all within an hour drive.
GuideI stayed at the non electric campsite area and it was nice. Very wooded and lots of trails to explore
GuideFull hookup, accessible after office hours. Friendly staff.
ScoutI wish I could give this campground zero stars. Like the reviews below us stated, we were also verbally attacked by the little man on the golf cart. This campground should be embarrassed by the way it treats families. We were supposed to stay Thursday through Sunday with our best friends and our six children. Instead, we packed up and left Saturday after returning from our planned trip to Ohiopyle with our kids. What was supposed to be a fun, relaxing family camping weekend turned into an experience that left us shocked, disappointed, and completely disrespected. We are experienced campers and have spent years creating memories with our children at campgrounds. We are respectful guests, we follow rules, and we have never had an experience like this. Unfortunately, this campground chose poor communication, intimidation, and selective enforcement over basic customer service. During our stay, we had a truck briefly drive down to the swimming area to unload and later reload chairs, coolers, and supplies for our six children. There are no signs stating that vehicles are prohibited on the grass. In fact, there were multiple golf carts in the same area throughout the day, including staff members and seasonal campers, which led us to believe this was permitted. We understand vehicles are heavier than golf carts, but there were zero signage stating no cars allowed. To preface, there was zero damage done to the grass area due to our truck, we took photos prior to leaving the campground to protect ourselves since management is so emotionally unstable. Mind you: this is an army corp engineers campground, by Under federal law(36 CFR§ 327.2), motorized vehicles, including golf carts, UTVs, ATVs, and standard cars, must remain strictly on designated paved or gravel roads and parking lots. We found this rule after we got home and did our research. There were about 5 golf carts AND a gator in and out of the beach area through out the day. If someone had simply approached us and kindly explained that vehicles were not allowed there, we would have apologized. Instead, staff chose to sit back after someone complained, watch my children swim for hours, wait for us to clean up and bring the truck down to reload, then turn a simple misunderstanding into a confrontation. A staff member approached the truck in a golf cart, speeding up and hopping out(this is all on video) while my minor daughter was inside, reached into our vehicle and took our tag then proceeded to yell at us to pack our“shit” and prepare to leave. The way this was handled was completely unnecessary and unprofessional. Our children were present, witnessed this, and were left scared and confused over a situation that could have been resolved in less than a minute with a respectful conversation. We were also told there is a strict 5 mph speed limit and that radar is used because of a serious incident involving a child in the past, He was hit and life flighted. Yet seasonal campers continued driving golf carts around at unsafe speeds while drinking. Rules and safety expectations should apply equally to everyone, not only when management decides to enforce them against certain guests and not their buddies who pay for a seasonal spot. We went to the office in good faith to discuss what happened and believed the situation had been resolved. We stayed another night, only to be told the following morning that we were no longer welcome back. To permanently ban a family over a first time issue involving a rule that was never communicated is absolutely unacceptable. A well run campground understands that communication and respect go both ways. Instead, this campground made paying guests feel unwelcome and disposable. Management needs to take a serious look at how they handle conflicts because this was not customer service, it was an unnecessary escalation. We will never return to this campground, and after this experience, we strongly encourage other families to think twice before booking a stay here. Especially with young children.
Travelercheck in was easy. there’s lots to do for families kids- there’s ponds to fish, swimming pool, mini golf. golf cart rentals. playground. they also have events like family olympics and outdoor movies. site was also very nice and spacious
ScoutHonestly I would not go here. Its a beautiful spot great for fishing and swimming. I wish it was doable. But no. We been here for 4 days for the holiday. We wanted something affordable and full of nature. We really thought this place would be like other campsites. But other than taking out trash (which most people just burn making it stinky the entire time and every single fire pit you probably shouldnt cook on) there are no rules no regulations. People can be in your site looking into your tent and they do not care here. People just go where they want and fish around kids swimming rather than going somewhere else. Music can be blared so loud theres nowhere to go without hearing it. Dogs do not have to he on leash despite the sign at the entrance. (Told essentially to get over it) the dogs will roam everywhere. Its completely taken over by "locals" who aren't actually locals at all. They are just people from other states that stay here all the time and take over during the holidays. If youre already established at this camp you are good to go. But if you are highly respectful people who respect nature and want the peace of real camping. Do not go here. We are packing and leaving 5 days early and will not be back.
GuideCoopers Rock State Park is an absolute gem and easily deserves 5 stars. The RV lots are large and easy to navigate, making setup stress-free and comfortable. The staff was very friendly and helpful, which made the whole stay even better. The new washrooms were clean, modern, and well maintained, and the scenery is breathtaking everywhere you look. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy nature, and take in the beautiful views.
GuideThis place is gorgeous and very quiet. The shower house and bathrooms were well maintained, and even had a laundry room and large sink around the back for dishes. Laundry costs $2 in quarters per load, 4 quarters for the washer and 4 quarters for the dryer. They are quick as well, took maybe an hour and 15 minutes all together. Campsites are spaced apart so you're not directly on top of eachother, but you can still see most of the other campers. Lots of trails in the area. We had electrical hook up and a lantern pole, and the is a dump and water station on the way in/out. Highly recommend this site.
TravelerWe are here a couple days . Staff and facilities are great. Lots of hiking trails of various types and lengths. June 9 and only 2 other RVs on our loop. The “new” loop has great single occupancy bath facilities.
Dispersed camping options near Aurora, West Virginia extend beyond established campgrounds into the Monongahela National Forest's less-traveled areas. At 2,600 feet elevation, Aurora's location provides access to camping environments ranging from riverside sites to mountain plateaus where temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees lower than valley floors. Forest service roads often require high-clearance vehicles during spring thaw when mud and seasonal closures affect access.
Trail exploration: Blackwater Falls State Park offers over 20 miles of hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "The falls are amazing and the gift shop has some interesting goods," notes Dale O., adding that the park is "beautiful" with "well maintained and sufficient amenities."
Water activities: Five River Campground provides direct access to Shavers Fork River. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," reports T N T. Another visitor mentions, "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property."
Rock climbing: Coopers Rock State Forest features multiple climbing areas with pitches up to 50 feet. "I have been going here for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches aren't too high but great just to get out there and enjoy life!" explains Nick P.
Wildlife viewing: Red Creek Campground serves as a base for bird watching. "We were thrilled to visit when 'Bird Banding' is taking place and enjoyed searching for migrating birds caught in the netting on the east side of the road opposite the campground," shares Dave V.
Fishing spots: Horseshoe Recreation Area provides riverside sites with catch-and-release fishing. "This is a remote riverside campground with great fishing opportunities," notes Jean C., who advises checking license and stamp requirements before casting.
Night sky viewing: Canaan Loop Road Dispersed offers sites away from light pollution. "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!" shares Sienna L. about the area. Another camper mentioned seeing "a spectacular light show put up by thousands of fireflies at night."
Seasonal berry picking: Late July and early August bring wild berries along trails in Red Creek area. "Late July and early August there are lots of berries to pick along the trails," notes Hannah V., who also mentions the "beautiful" fall views at Bear Rocks.
Swimming beaches: Deep Creek Lake State Park provides a maintained swimming area. "Walking distance to the huge beach/lake. The area was overcrowded but maintained well and clean," reports Simon S.
Bear safety: Food storage is critical throughout the region. "Bears are common so they emplaced a big old bear box at every site. It's enough room to hold your food for a month of camping!" explains Jonathan F. about Deep Creek Lake State Park.
Road conditions: Forest service roads require careful navigation. "Road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small Kia sedan and it was fine," reports Lillian R. about Canaan Loop Road, while noting "there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away."
Water crossing challenges: Red Creek trails include multiple stream crossings. "This was needing knee high rubber boots to leisurely get through swamp areas," warns Samantha S., who found the area "more parts than bearable" for hiking during wet seasons.
Elevation effects: Higher campsites experience significant temperature drops. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid-September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises Kellie A., speaking about Blackwater Falls State Park.
Kid-friendly water spots: Swallow Falls State Park features accessible waterfalls and swimming areas. "My kids love the swings and playground also," notes Dale O., who has "camped here many times over the years."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer regular deer sightings. "We were so quiet, several deer passed between us within arms reach," recounts Dave V. about an evening stargazing near Red Creek Campground.
Playground access: Tygart Lake has facilities for children. "Great place to take the kids. Lots of tall trees that provide shade," reports April J., who has been camping there "since the 90s."
Bathroom proximity: When booking sites with children, consider bathroom location. "Almost every site on the inside of the loop had its own little direct pathway to the bath house," notes Jen V. about Swallow Falls' Garrett Loop.
Site selection strategy: Choose RV sites carefully at Blackwater Falls. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," warns Kevin E., adding that "the dump station is in a weird spot."
Electric options: At Five River Campground, "120 RV sites many with full hook-ups" are available according to Erica M., who also notes it "can accommodate tents to large rigs" and has "great cell signal for most carriers."
Seasonal access: Many RV campgrounds close completely in winter. "The campground closes in the late fall, but some cabins, and the lodge, are open year-round," explains Jennifer B. about Tygart Lake State Park.
Cell reception: Connectivity varies greatly between campgrounds. "We did have cell service with Consumer Cellular (AT&T Towers) and were able to work while we camped," reports Kevin H. about Coopers Rock State Forest, noting "the camp Wi-Fi isn't the best."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Aurora, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, Aurora, WV offers a wide range of camping options, with 136 campgrounds and RV parks near Aurora, WV and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Aurora, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Aurora, WV is Blackwater Falls State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 55 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aurora, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Aurora, WV.
What parks are near Aurora, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Aurora, WV that allow camping, notably Jennings Randolph Lake and Youghiogheny River Lake.
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