Camping near Beaver, West Virginia centers on the Appalachian terrain of southern West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet. The region's distinctive location between the New River Gorge and Pipestem areas creates unique camping conditions with varied microclimates. Forest cover provides shade at most campgrounds during summer months when temperatures typically range from 60-85°F.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Little Beaver State Park Campground offers multiple trail options directly from campsites. "The park has a lot of trails and a lake but we didn't have time to check them out," notes one camper, highlighting the recreational opportunities available without driving elsewhere.
Water activities: Grandview Sandbar Campground provides direct river access steps from campsites. A visitor mentions, "Pretty limited space so get there early if you want a spot. Right near the River, which was beautiful." The sandbar area allows for swimming during summer months when water levels are safe.
Mountain biking: Trails throughout the region accommodate various skill levels. At Glade Creek Campground, "The camp is steps away from the Glade Creek Trail and the New River Gorge. The flowing Gorge can always be heard, the low rumble is peaceful at night." Bikes are permitted on many trails, with old railroad beds providing more level terrain options.
Coal mining history: Within 30 minutes of Beaver, visitors can explore regional mining heritage. "Check out Chocolate Moose in Beckley if you enjoy unique tasty coffee and excellent, friendly service and Tamarack for some West Virginia local art," recommends a camper, pointing to cultural stops that complement outdoor activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Glade Creek Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "We stayed at site #1. I think the campsites where all full shortly after dark. Very quiet. Have new vault toilets." The drive-in sites filled quickly but maintained a sense of solitude.
Clean facilities: Mash Fork Campground at Camp Creek State Park earns praise for maintenance. "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood," notes one visitor about nearby waterways, while another states the "campground was very nice and very clean. The staff was awesome."
Natural sounds: Many campers mention the ambient sounds at sites near water. "Just stayed for one night passing through and we were sad we couldn't stay longer. Sites are big and spread out. It's quiet. Walking trails all over," reports a Little Beaver State Park visitor, emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife. At Stone Cliff Campground, "We stayed at #6. Had plenty of space and were far enough away to not hear our neighbors... We were hanging some hammock straps up on our last evening and saw the largest spider I've ever seen in the hollow of one of the trees at the campsite."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Heavy rains affect river levels and access roads. At Army Camp Campground, "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in. Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store (like we did) so be prepared to have plenty of food and wood."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies by carrier and location. "There is a great trail nearby that runs along the river. Trash bins and restroom located nearby. No cell phone service," reports a Stone Cliff camper. Others note spotty service with AT&T at some locations while Sprint coverage is non-existent.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds. A Grandview Sandbar camper noted, "The really bad thing is that there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7. That includes during the night, yes. Ear plugs only did so much for me."
Site availability: Free campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We got lucky to find a site here after trying both Grandview Sandbar and Glade's Creek on the other side of the road," explains an Army Camp visitor, suggesting campers arrive early or have backup plans.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Ace Adventure Resort offers unique water activities. "The Mountain Top Campground was quite nice. Most of the sites have shade but if it had been crowded there's a few that don't have any. The trees were great for hammocks!" A camper adds, "The main one is the Lake with multiple giant anchored inflatables to play on for all ages."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Mash Fork Campground, "There is a general store that has just about anything you'd need in a pinch to get by. ABSOLUTELY LOVE this park." Another visitor mentions "This park is quiet, secluded and has plenty of trails to hike! The site I use exclusively has a river running behind it."
Educational opportunities: Coal mining exhibits provide learning experiences. A visitor to the region suggests, "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures." Ranger programs run seasonally at various locations.
Easy day trips: From most campgrounds, families can reach attractions within 30-45 minutes. "We spent 4 nights here. Used this park as a base camp for New River Gorge NP. There's many other State Parks we visited too," notes a Pipestem Resort State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV sites vary in levelness throughout the region. At Little Beaver State Park, "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site." Check site descriptions for grade information.
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "The road to the campground is not too bad but there is a narrow one-lane bridge you must cross," notes a Glade Creek camper. Army Camp visitors mention similar issues requiring careful navigation.
Hookup positioning: At several campgrounds, hookups may be inconveniently located. "Our electric post was on the opposite side of our electrical outlet," reports a Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Campground visitor, recommending extension cords and additional water hoses.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with hookups have dump stations. Little Beaver State Park provides this service, as one camper notes: "Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump. I'd like to go back and spend some more time there."
