Most campgrounds near Belington, West Virginia remain open from mid-April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. Elevations in the area range from 1,700 to 2,300 feet, creating temperature variations between riverside and mountain campsites. Primitive camping options in the Monongahela National Forest provide greater seclusion than established campgrounds, with several sites positioned along trout-rich streams.
What to do
Fishing access points: Tygart Lake State Park Campground offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. "There is a HUGE raccoon problem here, even during the day... The lake was pretty but there was a ton trash all around it, such a shame," warns one visitor, highlighting the need to protect food and clean up thoroughly.
Hiking trail exploration: Bear Heaven Campground provides direct access to boulder formations and mountain trails. "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders," notes a camper, making it ideal for rock scrambling enthusiasts.
Water recreation options: Five River Campground offers direct river access for kayaking and tubing. One visitor explains, "The Shavers Fork river (a Cheat River tributary) is also ideal for rafting, tubing and paddling. Most will take out 11 miles downriver before class 3 rapids (and higher) begin."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at secluded campsites provide the best viewing opportunities. "The forest teems with wildlife," mentions a camper at Audra State Park, though visitors should practice proper food storage techniques to prevent raccoon encounters common throughout the region.
What campers like
Natural features: Campers praise the geological formations throughout the area. At Bear Heaven Campground, visitors enjoy "exploring around the campground climbing the boulders, and there were tons of trails nearby, plus overlooks with beautiful views."
Water proximity: Many highly-rated sites feature waterfront locations. At Revelle's River Resort, "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river."
Off-grid appeal: The limited connectivity appeals to those seeking disconnection. "No running water or showers. About ten tent sites with firepit, picnic table, clean concrete vault toilet," explains a Bear Heaven visitor, highlighting the primitive camping experience available.
Seasonal activities: Spring offers unique natural displays throughout the region. One Bear Heaven camper suggests: "Visit in spring with mountain laurel, rhododendrons, etc. are blooming in the nearby lands, it's like nothing else!"
What you should know
Service limitations: Cell reception varies dramatically by location. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, a visitor notes: "You can bring a telescope! I would absolutely come back to stay for a few days!" showing how dark skies benefit from limited connectivity.
Campsite variations: Some campgrounds have poorly designed sites. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," notes a Blackwater Falls visitor, while another mentions: "You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side!"
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations mean rapid temperature changes and precipitation risks. "After reading previous review about the camp hosts, I think they have changed. They still have plumbing issues and the showers are still non-functional, but we brought our own anyway," explains a Stuart Recreation Area camper.
Reservation systems: Policies differ significantly between campgrounds. "No reservations, first come, first served," explains a visitor to Audra State Park, while other sites require advance booking, especially during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Supervise children closely near rivers. At Audra State Park Campground, "We were fortunate to find one along the river which was great to sit by a fire while the kids swam. Across the road is a day use area for swimming and tubing - bring your own or rent one."
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. "The camp has a decent bath house and playground. We plan on going up early in the morning hoping to snag a spot," advises an Audra State Park visitor.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature programs. "There's a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent," reports a Blackwater Falls visitor, highlighting activities that combine learning with recreation.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on bathroom proximity when camping with children. "Our site #37 was near the bathroom which was a plus with kids but did not have a lot of privacy. People were walking right through our site to get to the bathrooms, so weird!" cautions a Blackwater Falls camper.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Large rigs face significant obstacles at some campgrounds. At Five River Campground, "Big/long RV's (driven or pulled) have difficulty navigating this narrow, curvy campground road pocked with rocky outcroppings. Park in the day use parking by the bridge or picnic area and scout it out first."
Setup positioning: Consider optimal positioning for comfort. "We pulled straight in to our site instead of backing in. We like our door to face the picnic table and campfire! Good thing we have a long electrical cable," advises a Stuart Recreation Area visitor.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites throughout the region require significant leveling. "Most of the sites are very out of level," notes a Stuart Recreation Area camper, highlighting the need for leveling blocks and stabilizers.
Utility considerations: Hookup locations vary between campgrounds. "RV sites have power and water. Tent sites do not. In fact, tent sites might be considered primitive, possessing no picnic table," explains a visitor to Five River Campground, emphasizing the importance of understanding amenity limitations before arrival.
