Camping near Bluefield, West Virginia sits at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,200 feet in the Appalachian Mountains. The region experiences cold winters with snowfall and moderate summers with daytime temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s. Fall camping season offers colorful foliage displays while spring brings wildflowers to the mountain meadows around RV campgrounds in the Bluefield area.
What to do
Hatfield-McCoy trail access: At Hilltop Escape LLC, ATV enthusiasts can access trails directly from their campsite. "Trails are literally out your front door. Don't be fooled by other places claiming to be right on the trails. This is it!" notes camper Sherry L. The campground sits at the junction of multiple trail systems.
Bicycle the New River Trail: Located about an hour from Bluefield, Fries New RiverTrail RV Park offers easy access to a 58-mile trail system. "Catch the head of the 58 mile trail just 2 blocks from the RV site. We rode the first 6 miles (and back) of the New River Trail to the train trestle and through the tunnel, just beyond. Easy ride with 2% grade," reports Jennifer K.
Fishing opportunities: The New River provides multiple fishing spots within 30 minutes of Bluefield. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Peaceful and quiet!" shares Rachel S. about Army Camp in the New River Gorge. Local waters contain smallmouth bass, catfish, and various panfish species.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many campgrounds in the Bluefield area feature scenic mountain vistas. "Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds," says Eric H. about Brushcreek Falls RV Resort. The resort sits in a valley surrounded by wooded hills that frequently capture morning fog.
Quiet rural settings: Summer Wind RV Park offers a peaceful countryside setting. "Amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures," reports Kelly N. The park overlooks farmland with grazing cattle.
Campsite spacing: Unlike many commercial campgrounds, several Bluefield area parks offer more spacious sites. At Pipestem RV Park & Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking. We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," shares Molly F.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have limited connectivity. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!). Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," writes Tucker B. about Army Camp in the New River Gorge.
Seasonal operations: Some campgrounds close during winter months. Summer Wind RV Park operates from May through mid-October. "This Wknd trip on 7-10-22 was a washout in rain but there were moments where we had a reprieve from rain and had nice weather," notes Andrew S. about Pipestem, highlighting the region's unpredictable summer weather patterns.
Road conditions: Mountain access roads require careful navigation. "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," warns Corda B. about camping in the region's more remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "We had plenty of room to park our RV and there was a very nice new swingset Nearby. Noticed multiple people utilizing the fishing pond and there was a cornhole tournament going on at the other side of the park," reports Julie M. from Brushcreek Falls.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Many campsites offer animal viewing opportunities. "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," shares Randy G. from Summer Wind RV Park. The area supports diverse bird populations, white-tailed deer, and occasional black bears.
Recreation options: Lake Ridge RV Resort provides multiple family activities. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RVs/campers," says Melinda J. The resort maintains stocked fishing ponds and seasonal swimming facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads that may require minimal leveling. "We stayed a night on a long trip up the coast and had a great experience. It was easy to get around the campground, and there were many nice spots and cabins to choose from," notes Julie M. about Brushcreek Falls RV Resort.
Approach routes: When traveling to Bluefield area RV parks, plan your route carefully. "We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking," shares Molly F., indicating that larger rigs can navigate to the campground successfully.
Supply planning: Limited services in rural areas require preparation. "Just wish there was a wildlife area with flowers here," notes Cat R. about Fort Chiswell RV Park, highlighting that campers should arrive with necessary provisions as services can be limited in rural West Virginia camping areas.
