The Monongahela National Forest surrounds Aurora, West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,800 feet and over 900,000 acres of forest land. This region experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, even in summer months, with average July temperatures reaching 83°F during the day but dropping to 59°F overnight. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though some primitive sites are accessible year-round.
What to do
River activities: 5 miles from campgrounds Shavers Fork River at Five River Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," notes a camper. Many sites allow tubing: "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property."
Waterfall hikes: 30-minute drive The region features numerous cascades worth exploring. "Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet. Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River," mentions a visitor to Swallow Falls. For multiple falls in one hike, try the trails at Blackwater Falls where "Falls of Elakala is the 4 falls of Shays Run."
Mountain biking: Various skill levels The area offers trails for beginners through experts. "Tons of Mountain Bike trails," reports a Canaan Valley visitor. Many trails connect to campgrounds, making it convenient to ride directly from your site without driving to trailheads.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk best Deer are common throughout the region's campgrounds. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground, "There are deer everywhere!" according to one camper. After dark, fireflies create natural light shows in summer: "We were lucky enough to witness a spectacular light show put up by thousands of fireflies at night."
Clean facilities: Above average Horseshoe Recreation Area maintains exceptional bathrooms. "They are really nice and the cleanest I have seen in a campground," one visitor reports. Similarly, at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, "The bath houses are MUCH cleaner than Pipestem & checked often."
Scenic variety: Mountain to valley views The region's campgrounds offer diverse landscapes from mountaintops to riverside settings. "The views over the mountains here. Completely captures the beauty and peace of WV," notes a Cooper's Rock visitor. Riverside sites are equally appreciated: "The view and sunsets over the river made for gorgeous pictures."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Research layouts Many campgrounds have unusual configurations. At Blackwater Falls, "You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side!" Similar issues affect RV sites: "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side."
Weather preparedness: Rain gear essential The region receives significant rainfall. At Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, campers warn "It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road. All of the sites were mud pits." Plan for temperature changes: "anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight."
Ranger
