Beaver, West Virginia sits at the edge of New River Gorge National Park at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, where temperatures fluctuate significantly between seasons. Summer camping temperatures average 75-85°F during the day but can drop to 55-65°F at night. The region's forest terrain provides natural shade at most sites, though primitive camping areas often lack dedicated tent pads.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Little Beaver State Park Campground offers convenient lake access where campers can enjoy shoreline fishing. "The park has a lot of trails and a lake but we didn't have time to check them out," notes one visitor, highlighting the multiple recreation options beyond just camping.
Traverse historic trails: Army Camp Campground at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve preserves unique military history. "Area for people to swim in the river or fish. One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet," reports a camper. The site features remnants of an Army training camp where soldiers learned to build floating bridges.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide prime wildlife watching at Babcock State Park. "Lots of deer about," mentions one camper. The park's diverse ecosystems support numerous native species visible from established trails and observation areas.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Rifrafters Campground maintains well-kept amenities that campers consistently praise. "The bathrooms were clean and well maintained," notes one reviewer. Another camper adds, "We had a lovely stay and the hosts were so hospitable. We purchased firewood and they walked it to our campsite."
River proximity: Grandview Sandbar Campground provides direct river access that enhances the experience. "This is an exceptionally well maintained camping area. There are 2 separate pit toilet bathrooms with dumpsters, one by the dispersed camping and one by the main parking area," shares a camper. The riverside location offers both scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Yurt camping options: Rays Campground near Beaver, West Virginia offers yurt accommodations that blend wilderness experience with comfort. "Known by kayakers and rock climbers. It also has rustic cabin bunkhouses that are also reasonably priced," shares a visitor. Yurt camping near Beaver provides a distinctive alternative to traditional tent sites.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Prepare for temperature swings, especially at The Outpost at New River Gorge. "On our way in, we stopped at The New River Gorge which was beautiful and then for a beer at Bridge Works Beer... there were plenty of heaters on the patio to keep us warm in the rain and cold," one camper reported. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, particularly on weekends. "We were lucky and got one of the last spots, there's only 11," explains a camper at Army Camp. Most established campgrounds accept reservations, while primitive sites operate first-come, first-served.
Water availability: Check what water sources exist at your chosen site. "Note: vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River...which I wouldn't recommend," advises a visitor to Army Camp. Campgrounds with hookups provide water, but dispersed camping requires bringing your own.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Ace Adventure Resort offers family-friendly amenities beyond standard camping. "The resort is awesome. They have cabins and they have hot tubs. We want to go back and stay there sometime. The park has so much to do including trails, swimming, and an awesome water park," shares one family. Schedule structured activities between camp time.
Site selection: Choose sites based on your family's specific needs. "I enjoyed this campground. A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade," notes a camper at Little Beaver State Park. For families with young children, sites closer to bathrooms minimize nighttime treks.
Comfort considerations: Yurt camping near Beaver, West Virginia works well for families wanting camping experience without tent setup. "The site we had, site 10, was large and secluded. Clean shower house and hot water and the owners were extremely friendly," shares a visitor to Rays Campground. Yurts provide shelter from unexpected weather changes.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Twin Falls Resort State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Sites are reasonably spaced. Some are wooded, others are out in open," notes one RVer. Another cautions, "The only campsite we could get was 21... 21 is not level."
Road access considerations: Many campgrounds feature narrow, winding access roads. "Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds," advises a visitor about Army Camp. Another camper at The Outpost shared, "We have a small travel trailer and it was a tight fit."
Hookup limitations: Verify what hookups are available before arrival. "We had electric only hook ups. There was supposed to be community water at the campsite, but unfortunately it was turned off as we were there at the end of their camping season," reports an RVer at Twin Falls. Most campgrounds offer electric but fewer provide full hookups.
