Best Tent Camping near Bowden, WV
Looking for the best Bowden tent camping? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Bowden campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Bowden, WV (23)
1. Bear Heaven Campground
Bowden, West Virginia6 Reviews•6 Photos•143 SavesA small primitive campground located approximately 14 miles northeast of Elkins, West Virginia, on Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) near the Otter Creek Wilderness. 8 available sites are nestled along rock outcroppings that offer unique landscapes. There is stream fishing and hiking located nearby. Middle Point Trail #140,__3.7 miles in length is located along Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) west of the Campground. The Otter Creek Wilderness offers several trails and__more challenging experiences just next door.
- Tents
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
2. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
Davis, West Virginia8 Reviews•44 Photos•203 SavesRecreation areas with activity Dispersed Camping: There are at least 7 dispersed camp sites Along Canaan Loop Road.
Camping Tips Bring drinking water; otherwise, treat water from streams and springs before drinking to kill harmful pathogens. Vigorously boil local water for at least three minutes, or use a filter which is specifically labeled for removal of Giardia. Chemical treatments (iodine and chlorine) are not considered effective. Freezing temperatures and snow can occur anytime of the year, but mainly between October and April. Dress for the weather. Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not build a camp within 200 feet of streams. Light weight camping stoves are encouraged. If using firewood it must be dead AND down branches only. Keep fires small. During hunting seasons, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
3. Little River Dispersed Campsites
Durbin, West Virginia6 Reviews•36 Photos•289 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Eagle Rock Campground
Upper Tract, West Virginia4 Reviews•30 Photos•26 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Toilets
- Alcohol
$10 / night
5. Gatewood Group
Circleville, West Virginia1 Review•3 Photos•5 SavesOverview
Gatewood Group Campground is ideally located just two miles from Spruce Knob Lake in the Monongahela Forest, creating an ideal base camp for hikes and wildlife watching.
Recreation
With over 500 miles of hiking trails, visitors are have many options in the forest, including the Gatewood Nature Trail. With some of the most beautiful overlooks in the area, Spruce Knob Lake offers fishing and boating opportunities (fish are stocked). No swimming is allowed. Unobstructed views of the night sky bring stargazer clubs to this spot all summer long.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on a ridge in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. The Monongahela Forest extends over the north central highlands of the state, encompassing many of the region's highest peaks. Elevations range from 1,000-4,863 feet, and Gatewood sits at 4,300 feet. Variations in terrain and precipitation have created one of the most ecologically diverse national forests in the country.
Nearby Attractions
Spruce Knob, West Virginia's highest peak, lies just 9 miles from the campground. It overlooks forested ridges and grassy open pastures. Visitors can drive or hike to the top. Rock climbing is also a popular activity.
- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
$60 / night
7. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Brandywine, West Virginia10 Reviews•57 Photos•411 SavesThis colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound. Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Camp Ara
Grafton, West Virginia2 Reviews•22 Photos•39 SavesCamp Ara is a beautiful 113-acre property in Fairmont, WV. Located in the Allegheny Mountains about 20 minutes south of Morgantown, WV, and West Virginia University. It is close to major cities like Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Columbus, Cincinnati, and many others. The property has been run as a Christian camp for over 60 years, serving and changing the lives of countless youth along the way. There is a large number of foster children in and around the area that are currently in great need of programs that connect them with nature, help them to grow individually, and help teach them life skills to prepare them for transitioning out of the foster care system. In addition to running year-round programming, Camp Ara is home to 80+ acres of virtually untouched land. We have created 40 beautiful campsites that require various amounts of hiking to reach. No matter what site you choose, however, you will almost definitely feel as though you are alone with nature.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$20 - $150 / night
9. Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center
Kitzmiller, Maryland2 Reviews•16 Photos•32 SavesAbrams Creek Campground and Retreat brings you as close as possible to pristine nature. Tent sites are generously sized, spaced well apart, shaded, and on soft natural earth. Cabins are secluded and set into the forest. Even at full capacity, there is no sense of crowding. You are never far from our wild, whitewater stream. In some places, it is a constant source of energy and playfulness; in other places, it is peaceful and calming, inviting you to soak in its beauty. The forest offers a vast array of plants, and signs of wildlife are everywhere. We are not only a business, but also serve as an anchor for others who want to live more simply and close to the earth. The concept of rural revitalization means reinventing rural life so that it is economically sound, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally satisfying. Ask any of our staff if you would like to learn more about this.
We are located within 30-45 minutes of many major recreational areas, including Blackwater Falls, Swallow Falls, Dolly Sods Wilderness, the Youghiogheny River, several ski resorts, and Deep Creek Lake. Mount Storm (3 miles) has a general store, gas station, library, motel, sports and recreation store, and public park.
Guests are welcome to interact with hosts as they choose or be as private and secluded as they wish to be. Weather permitting, we have a bonfire most Saturday nights.
Our usual check in time is 3PM; you may check in anytime after 3PM until 10PM, or later by arrangement. Our usual check out time is noon. If you need more flexible check in or check out times, please contact us!Dogs are welcome!
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Trash
$28 / night
10. Lost Land Run
Kitzmiller, Maryland1 Review•6 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
$10 - $20 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Bowden
501 Reviews of 23 Bowden Campgrounds
Jadon B.
Guide
Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
Abundant beauty
We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!
Benjamin L.Guide
Jess Judy
Jess Judy is in a beautiful area, with no phone service or ammenities.
Every year we my family does a "friends and family" camping trip. We always try to stay somewhere where there are a lot of activities and the campsites are spaced far apart. (My family tends to be loud). Jess Judy fits this build.
We have camped at Jess Judy at least a half dozen times and I aways enjoy it. We normally go in August so that we can swim, fish, hike, go tubing, rock climbing or just go exploring. Our last trip was in late September and even though it rained the entire time, it was still a nice trip.
Jess Judy is:
Remote - Jess Judy is in the middle of nowhere, in order to get to the campsites you have to drive 3 miles down a gravel road that tends to wash out into the river. In addition to the access road, there is no cell service with in a 20 min drive.
Small - Jess Judy only has 3 group camp sites and there isn't too much separating them from each other.
Primitive Sites - Jess Judy doesn't offer any running water, or other amenities besides two latrines that may or may not be clean. Be prepared to bring in all of you water and be ready to clean a latrine.
Tent Camping Only - Jess Judy only offers tent camping for groups, works for us but not for everyone.
Lots of Activities - Jess Judy offers a lot of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, kayaking, rafting, river swimming, star gazing, rock climbing, etc.
In short, we love Jess Judy, but I know that it really isn't for most people.
- SSarah C.Guide
Rivers Edge Campground
Lovely little spot
Family camping trip and we tagged along in our tent. We’ve been priced out of our area so pleased to find this hidden gem. A small, comfortable, family run campground that has enough amenities to keep the littles entertained and adults relaxing. We stayed in the tent area, which we had all to ourselves. Our site was on the river and able to pull our motorcycles right up. I do think if the tent area is full it will feel crowded. There’s a small bathroom attached to back of camp store nearby. Then the larger bathhouse down the way. The RV sites were flat, clean, in an open area. We will, for sure, be back.
Kevin C.
Ranger
Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center
Scenic and secluded
Tented a cabin for two nights to hide from bad weather. Cabin had electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights. The campground had no other guests during our stay.
The campground is long and narrow bordering on Abrams Creek. We took daily walks to the end of the campground and enjoyed the scenic views.
The campsite has port-a-potties for each cabin and for groups of campsites. Water was clean and had no oder.
The only concern noted was the bath house. It was poorly lighted and made of what looked like left over materials.
The gentleman that checked us in was a wealth of knowledge. He told us all about the campground and told us they offer an outdoor shower. Their were two outdoor shower stalls which were shower curtains next to the shower house.
- CChalang R.
Traveler
Hone Quarry
Great for mid week
If you live in Harrisonburg, Bridgwater and any surrounding area, this place is amazing. Fair warning, this place is DARK DARK, but your campers, so. The campsites are clean, $5 a night will get you a place to stay. Payment box upfront. There’s a pond up the road to fish.
- CChalang R.Traveler
Eagle Rock Campground
Great for a night
Was coming back from fishing and need a place to sleep without paying for a hotel. Great place honestly. I don’t really have anything negative to say about it. At $10 and fishing, I’ll definitely be back.
- Harley G.Guide
Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
First night
This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time.
Tiel M.Traveler
Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground
Primitive plus.
That's the best way to describe this park. It has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad. I love how open and natural it feels.
However, the plus is that there are lots of little amentities, a coffee pavilion, wood to buy, portapots, and an incredibly kind "staff." I'm mobility impaired and it was just my dog and I. The guys were super helpful bringing the wheelbarrow of wood to me, which would have been difficult for me.
The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks.
The property was clean and quiet other than the occasional diesel truck going down the road.
- WWaseem H.Guide
Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
Beautiful views
Very quiet, beautiful views, amazing drive from VA. Multiple campsites and they all have beautiful views. I have T-Mobile and had signal only by the first campsite for some reason. I had no signal for almost two hours heading towards VA.
- WWaseem H.Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Quiet peaceful place
I didn’t find and good spots, but it was quiet and peaceful. I drove from there to flag pole. The trail was really fun and moderately difficult.
- MMarty T.Traveler
Bennie’s Beach Campground
Cool spot by the creek
Bennies has a cool spot by the creek for tent camping. I was the only one there - after having driven through the aging RV neighborhood. Check-in was mystical, but finally reached the groundskeeper by phone and left money in a mailbox. "$40 cash money..." Way overpriced considering the unsanitary (gross) showers and restrooms. I think I felt cleaner before the shower. If you don't need a shower and don't mind dropping $40 for a place to pitch your tent then Bennies may be for you.
- SSarah C.Guide
Brandywine Lake Campground — Shenandoah Wildlife Management Area
Drive on up to site!
Clean, comfortable campground with spacious sites. Some of the sites are very private, others are a little less. Some have bear boxes and some are a lot closer to bath house than others. There is a large overflow lot available and set up for campers. However, we went on a Monday night and only shared the campground with 4 other groups of campers. Hosts are on site and both friendly and informative. Hiking trails nearby and some start at campground. Lake is low but still good for swimming or floating. We had a very peaceful night, even with the rain. Recommend!
Jeremiah S.Guide
Bulltown Campground — Burnsville Lake Wildlife Management Area
Surviving Storm
We booked this trip last minute on Memorial Day weekend and literally took the last site reservable. The place was crowded and our corner was as crowded as anywhere. The people beside us had way too many cars that made it a little tough to back in. The 5 dudes standing around helped us navigate their vehicles but it was annoying. Later the guy brought us over some whiskey and beers, maybe as an unstated apology.
The CG itself was very family oriented and our site was a good size. We went swimming in lake two days and drove down to Flatwoods for some of the best ice cream you can find at The Spot (UFO and alien sighting location lol).
A huge storm rolled through with 40/50 mph winds. We had a little heads up thanks to buying a day of WiFi but most people were caught flat footed. We saw 30 plus awnings and canopies destroyed. Power went out for entire last day but we were fine. No rangers or park folks let us know anything but that was fine.
I’d recommend c1-c5 if you have kids.
- Jeremiah S.Guide
Stonewall Resort State Park Campground
Great Amenities
After years of tent camping, this was our first camping trip with camper our and two youngest kids. When we stayed it was cold outside but we had full hook up and were prepared.
We had nice view of the lodge. The lodge amenities are top notch with a heated pool that only costs a a daily charge to use on top of camping. The campsite itself was a little pricey with the only thing distinguishing the campground being lodge activities you have to pay for.
I’d recommend sites 1-5, 20, and 39.
Trisha G.
ScoutEagle Rock Campground
♥️
We have been coming to Eagle Rock for years. Most of the people change every year but there are some that have permanent campers here. A few rude people this year but we still enjoyed our time. It doesn’t have all the amenities that some would want. If you enjoy roughing it then ER is worth camping at.
- KKatie H.Guide
Swallow Falls State Park Campground
Gorgeous Park
We love this park! We have camped and stayed in a camper cabin. We love camping in the trees that provide some privacy. At night time, the owls hoot away. The bathhouses are pretty good, not the best but are always clean. I like that the campground is dog friendly, but didn’t realize the park is not. The waterfall trails are beautiful and a sight to explore. Definitely recommend this park!
Michael H.TravelerCanaan Loop Road Dispersed
Great area for backcountry car camping /overlanding!
Loved camping here! We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping!
Kim S.Traveler
Audra State Park Campground
Beautiful campsites
It's a curvy small road to get there but it's well worth the drive. Beautiful campsites,some right on the river. Access to water that is icy cold but definitely fun to play in. The camp store is well stocked and the employees are friendly.
Sumner C.GuideBennie’s Beach Campground
Amazing spot on north fork Shenandoah
We were the only campers on a giant spot right on the river. The grounds are well maintained and stunning. Water is crystal clear and everyone is respectful
Danny M.Scout
Whittaker Campground
Cass,WV
Great location for Cass RR or start or end of the greenbrier river rail trail. Privately owned. Grassy sites, “mostly “ . We camped in our Van. 110/30 amp service at most sites. Many seasonal rental spaces. “Simple “ plywood shower and toilet house. (Mens side not so clean) hot water shower. $30/night with or without electricity. Tight sites, we camped mid week before the Memorial Day holiday.
- kkeri S.Traveler
Family Fishing N' Camping
AS OF 5/18/2024
This establishment does NOT offer tent sites anymore! 5/18/2024. I called to make a reservation and they said they do not do that anymore as of a few years ago.
- kkeri S.Traveler
Broken Wheel Campground
Family camping
I recently went tent camping with my two children and 2 dogs it was a wonderful experience! The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and gaurentee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts! Plenty of trash cans around and a nice park to play at. We tied our doggos between two trees and let them run. Firewood for sale. None to gather around not even sticks so be prepared for that. The tent camping sites arnt marked you kind of just go anywhere which was fine since we were the only ones there. We loved it!
kylie B.GuideSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Terrible road to get in
I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .
Lucy P.Ranger
North River Campground
Quiet and basic
Lots of bmx bikers, tucked far back in the woods so decent for privacy except that sites are basically in an open field.
- Lucy P.Ranger
George Washington National Forest Todd Lake Campground
Great spot
No cell service, but beautiful and fun place for swimming, hiking, and mountain biking. Hot showers!
- Lucy P.Ranger
Hone Quarry
Very peaceful
Quiet little campground, no frills and no cell service. A few nearby dispersed sites as well.
- Lucy P.Ranger
Todd Lake Campground
Love this place
Have loved this campground since I was a kid, gorgeous and lots of fun - very kid friendly! Fyi no cell service and watch out for leeches.
Guide to Bowden
Tent camping near Bowden, West Virginia, offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.
Affordable Tent Camping Options
- Prices for tent camping typically range from $10 to $0, making it accessible for all budgets. For instance, you can enjoy a night at Eagle Rock Campground for just $10, right next to the river.
- If you're seeking a free experience, consider Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, where you can find secluded spots amidst nature without any fees.
- Another great option is Little River Dispersed Campsites, which offers a beautiful setting at no cost, perfect for those who want to camp without breaking the bank.
Scenic Local Attractions
- Explore the stunning views at Blackwater Falls State Park, easily accessible from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking waterfalls.
- The nearby Smoke Hole Canyon is a fantastic spot for fishing and hiking, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience at Eagle Rock Campground.
- For those interested in unique geological features, Bear Heaven Campground is close to impressive boulders and rock structures, perfect for exploration.
Activities for Tent Campers
- Enjoy hiking and fishing opportunities at Little River Dispersed Campsites, where you can set up camp by the river and explore nearby trails.
- Bear Heaven Campground offers spacious sites and access to numerous hiking trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
- For a more secluded experience, Swallow Rock Campground provides dispersed camping along Gandy Creek, perfect for fishing and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bowden, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bowden, WV is Bear Heaven Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Bowden, WV?
TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Bowden, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.