The Monongahela National Forest surrounds Bowden, West Virginia, situated at approximately 2,000 feet elevation in Randolph County. This region experiences relatively cool summer temperatures, often dropping into the 40s at night even in July and August. Winter camping requires proper gear as temperatures frequently fall below freezing with significant snowfall accumulation in the higher elevations.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: The Shavers Fork River near Revelle's River Resort provides excellent fishing spots. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," notes one visitor who enjoyed the riverside camping experience.
Seasonal berry picking: Visit the higher elevations in summer for wild berries. "Bear Rock and Dolly Sods for beautiful views and delicious berry picking (take empty clean milk jugs for easy picking buckets). Also great hiking here. Take a backpack of snacks, water and a cooler for lunch," recommends a camper from Canaan Valley Resort.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades are within driving distance of Bowden. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, you can access several falls. "The Falls of Elakala is a short walk from the lodge. Lindy Point overlook was a.3M one way for a fabulous view," shares one reviewer after exploring the park.
Winter activities: The area transforms into a winter sports destination when snow arrives. The Canaan Valley area offers skiing opportunities, with a camper noting, "Winter brings copious snowfall and the skiing here draws thousands...downhill and XC."
What campers like
Accessible dark skies: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Spruce Knob Lake Campground, "You're in the middle of nowhere, so you do have a truly dark sky," explains one camper who appreciated the celestial views from WV's highest point.
Secluded creek-side spots: Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping offers free waterside sites. "I love Gandy Creek! I have camped at 4 different sites and have explored and reconned almost all of them! Some you walk-in a short distance but are rewarded with amazing sites on the creek, secluded and wooded," writes one enthusiastic visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds feature abundant deer and other wildlife. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," notes a camper at Canaan Valley Resort State Park, while others frequently mention chipmunks and birds throughout the area.
River swimming holes: Natural swimming areas provide relief during warm days. "We were fortunate to find one along the river which was great to sit by a fire while the kids swam," shares a visitor to Audra State Park, which offers riverside camping just over an hour from Bowden.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically across the region. At Seneca Shadows, "I'm not a huge fan since it often mean higher fees, but I must say that the campground was spotless and well-run by a delightful couple who obviously enjoyed their summer job."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly throughout the year. "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months. I have mastered the fine art of campsite tarping due to West Virginia camping," advises a reviewer from Canaan Valley.
Bear country awareness: The region has black bears, requiring proper food storage. A visitor to Gandy Creek notes, "There's minimal cell reception and by that I mean you'll be walking along and all the sudden your phone will start dinging because you hit a pocket where you get one bar of reception and the text messages pour in!"
Road conditions: Many forest roads are unpaved and challenging. "There is a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there. My Subaru Forester didn't have any issues, but if you're driving an RV or have a trailer, you may have a struggle," cautions a winter camper at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Five River Campground features "a wonderful park nearby that has a walking/biking trail, splash pad, and a large playground," according to one family that spent a week there.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Look for shorter trails suitable for young hikers. "Lindy Point overlook was a.3M one way for a fabulous view," shares a Blackwater Falls visitor who found this manageable distance perfect for family exploration.
Water play opportunities: Rivers and creeks provide natural entertainment. "The river is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it," notes a family that stayed at Five River Campground.
Pet-friendly activities: Many trails welcome four-legged family members. One camper at Audra State Park Campground appreciated that "Hiking trails provide scenic views. Friendly staff, clean and well kept," making it ideal for pet friendly camping near Bowden, West Virginia.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Pay attention to hookup locations when choosing 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 camper who found this layout challenging.
Road challenges: Some campground roads present difficulties for larger rigs. A visitor to Audra State Park warns, "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."
Seasonal accessibility: Some roads become impassable in winter weather. An RVer at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground observed, "Nice camp sites, and good fishing," but many access roads in the higher elevations close seasonally due to snow.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven sites in mountain terrain. A camper at Stuart Recreation Area noted, "Nice private camping areas more well suited to tents than RV. Most of the sites are very out of level," suggesting extra leveling blocks for those bringing campers.
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