Camping areas near Belington range between 1,600-2,500 feet elevation in the Monongahela National Forest. This region has a humid continental climate with average summer temperatures of 75-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. The Middle Fork River watershed provides numerous camping opportunities with seasonal fishing conditions that vary depending on recent rainfall.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Shavers Fork River at Five River Campground offers excellent kayaking and tubing experiences. "We utilized one of the rv sites with 50 amp service and full hookups... We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property," notes Jamie R.
Fishing spots: Multiple river access points provide varied fishing environments for different skill levels. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," says T N T at Five River Campground.
Hiking trails: The Stuart Recreation Area offers a 1.5-mile loop trail through mountain laurel. "The 1.5 mile loop trail was great and just challenging enough to be fun. The campground and trail are filled with beautiful mountain laurel," reports Lysandra R.
Swimming holes: Natural water features provide refreshment during summer months. "Across the road is a day use area for swimming and tubing - bring your own or rent one," explains Elaine L. about Audra State Park.
What campers like
River proximity: Waterfront sites allow for immediate water access. "We chose a small cluster of trees beside the river so I could string a tarp and hammocks (it does seem to shower quite a bit in WV). The river melody is loud enough to drown out most other distant noises," writes Dave V.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. "The bathhouses are MUCH cleaner than Pipestem & checked often. There's more of a staff presence here also," notes Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
Friendly management: Personal attention from owners enhances the camping experience. "John and Joyce Bowers are awesome folks and are very caring and considerate. They go out of their way to make you feel like family," says Wanda C. about Five River Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings support abundant wildlife observation. "The forest teems with wildlife," mentions Dave V. in his review of Audra State Park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have awkwardly designed sites. "You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side! A lot of sites on this loops are like that," explains Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The roads are very narrow with sharp turns," reports Robert H. about Audra State Park Campground.
Weather preparedness: Rain is common in the region and affects river conditions. "This past spring, it rained 19 of the 21 days we camped there, but it was still enjoyable," shares Dave V. about Audra.
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "There is no Sprint connectivity but AT&T was a full 5G signal. AT&T Speedtest 42.3 Mbps down, 20.5 Mbps up," reports Ron about Stuart Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Look for shallow water access points for safer play. "We were fortunate to find one along the river which was great to sit by a fire while the kids swam," shares Elaine L. about Audra State Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "The camp has a decent bath house and playground," notes Elaine L. about Audra State Park Campground.
Local attractions: Revelle's River Resort provides access to regional activities. "Very centrally located to many fun attractions including the railroad tours, Mongahelia National Forest, Davis and Elkins College, etc.," explains Misty C.
Pet-friendly options for families with dogs: Dog friendly campgrounds near Belington welcome pets with adequate spaces. "Exercise area for pets is huge. Within five minutes a local grocery store," says Janet C. about Five River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be prepared for unusual utility placements. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," warns Kevin E. about Blackwater Falls State Park.
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access for larger RVs. "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 to avoid frustration and personal property damage," advises Dave V. about Audra State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Lower Glady Dispersed Campground provides free camping options with basic amenities. "The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways," reports Kevin C.
Local resources: Proximity to towns provides convenient supply access. "We camped solo first week of June then with neighbor and his friends a week later. Had great time both visits! Highly recommend getting firewood on right not far from turning off main road!" suggests John W. about the dispersed camping options.
Ranger
