1 campground with availability next weekend
Buckhannon, West Virginia serves as a gateway to diverse camping environments, with several established campgrounds located within a 30-mile radius of the city. Audra State Park Campground, situated along the Middle Fork River, offers 67 sites for tent and RV camping, with 13 featuring electrical hookups. Nearby Stonewall Resort State Park provides additional options including cabin rentals and glamping accommodations. Most campgrounds in the region feature standard amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, while some like Kick Back n Camp and Broken Wheel Campground remain open year-round for extended season camping opportunities.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping availability around Buckhannon, with most state park campgrounds operating from April through October. Audra State Park typically opens in mid-April and closes in mid-October, while Holly River State Park extends slightly longer from early April through late November. Weather conditions can significantly impact the camping experience, particularly along waterways where river levels fluctuate with rainfall. The Middle Fork River at Audra can transform dramatically after heavy precipitation, creating challenging conditions for riverside campsites. A camper noted, "The Middle Fork River was at a tranquil flow when we first arrived, but after several days, it swelled into a wild ride."
Riverside camping represents a distinctive feature of the Buckhannon area, with many campsites positioned directly along waterways. Audra State Park receives consistently high ratings for its riverside sites, where visitors can enjoy the sounds of flowing water throughout their stay. Several campers highlighted the peaceful atmosphere created by the proximity to water. "Falling asleep to the sounds of the river every night was perfect," one visitor wrote. While riverside sites offer natural ambiance, they also tend to fill quickly during peak season. Campgrounds farther from town such as Holly River State Park and Tygart Lake State Park provide alternative settings with varying degrees of development and natural features. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, though site sizes and levelness vary considerably across locations.
"Audra State Park, is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the journey. Tucked away, just outside of Buckhannon, WV...home of West Virginia Wesleyan College."
"This campground is deep in the woods of Buckhannon. There are 67 campsites with picnic table, fire grate, and moveable bench, 13 of these sites have electricity hookups."
"Stonewall Resort State Park is now the official name of this mountain retreat located around the edges of Stonewall Jackson Lake. "
"However, secreted away on the bank of Stonewall Jackson Lake, in Briar Point Campground there are five token tent sites."
"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."
"We called the campground, and they had availability for walk-ins! Usually, you’d have to book in advance. The campsite was a semi-private spot, and it cost less than $30 a night, without electricity."
from $25 - $40 / night
"I should preface each of my reviews for West Virginia campgrounds and state forests by stating...West Virginia has the nicest and friendliest people I've come across...and that is a pure pleasure in this"
"We enjoyed the beautiful drive in with the fall colors and the little stream next to the road that goes through the campground. The sites are a little tight if you have a bigger camper."
"There was a bathroom close by with running water and showers. It was beautiful and very close to the lake."
"Trails to lakeside/shore where campers do swim although no swimming from shore is "not" allowed. Just be respectful and clean up after yourselves and usually no drama involved."
"This is a hidden gem right outside of town. We utilized one of the rv sites with 50 amp service and full hookups."
"It sets at the end of a side street (Walnut St) at the edge of town (Parsons). A small, quaint mountain town."
from $15 / night
"Bulltown Camp, Burnsville Lake, WV https://www.recreation.gov/camping/bulltown-camp/r/campgroundDetails.do?"
"Bulltown Campground offers a couple hundred spaces, multiple playgrounds, and clean restrooms on the edge of Burnsville Lake, managed by the U-S Army Corps of Engineers."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $38 - $50 / night
"Much easier than driving around to find an open spot. We stayed at the waters edge this time. It was nice and quiet, close to the bath house, water fountain and playground."
"good shady sites. good area for kids to ride bikes. some sites were tight fit for our tent but we still enjoyed it. took our kayaks we stayed right next to lake. good clean bathroom and campground. hosts"
"Blackwater State Park, Davis, WV https://wvstateparks.com/park/blackwater-falls-state-park/ Camping anywhere in West Virginia is a highlight, but this area offers hiking views aplenty."
"This was our first stay in a state park campground in West Virginia and it was a great stay. Arrived during a steady downpour and rented a cabin for the first night but camped the second night."
from $50 / night
TravelerBeautiful camping sites along the river! This is a small State Park, but packs a punch with some beautiful trails, and direct river access from almost half of the sites. Nice camp store and heated, full bath houses with showers. Note that sites are gravel….so if tenting bring a cot and/or some extra cushioning. Wi fi is available within close range of the camp store. I was at Site #8.
TravelerThere are 25 or so established sights at Mower Basin and you're bound to find one with an incredible view of the mountains. Sight 12 took my breath away, but unfortunately as a tent camper the wind pushed us down to the lake sight just passed it. It was close to the road but still felt private. Everyone who passed our sight was very friendly. It's a gorgeous place, and from someone who's never been to Virginia, it was the perfect place to have my first experience. We will probably go back when we are heading back down south.
TravelerThis review is for the primitive boondockers like myself. It's a very established campground, full amenities, restaurant, gift shop, the works. I thought we would find a primitive campground with much more privacy based on the details and reviews of the grounds. The primitive camping spots are all in view of each other down a long stretch of dirt road. They're very clean and come with trash cans at each sight, which was nice. We were the only tent campers so it was enjoyable, but I don't know if I would have had the same experience if there were a lot of campers. I think that's a very important and left out detail about this location for the people who enjoy a more private environment. I'm still very happy with my stay, and the staff is absolutely WONDERFUL. They're all so kind and went out of their way to provide us with information when we had questions they didn't know the answer to, everyone who works there is a delight. 25$ a night felt a little much to sleep in our tent, but the showers, clean bathrooms, and care put into the property made it worth it. Waterfalls nearby as well. I'd stay again.
ScoutOvernight tent camping with my dog. Saw a raccoon in a tree. So private and peaceful. The water and wind at night made for a nice relaxing sleep. Plenty of trails to explore.
TravelerThis was a gem of a state park. It's small and older (which for me is a feature, not a bug), all entirely walkable with a central bathroom, camp store and playground at the heart of the campground. We had a site on the back of the campground that was larger than most (lots of small sites) and could fit our big tent set up. It rained like the dickens for a one of the days we were there and there was a drainage river running THROUGH our site that could have turned into a problem. Luckily the rain stopped in time and our site drained quickly. Despite all that, I loved our stay. It was VERY busy when we stayed, but I liked how it felt like a family retreat, where kids were safe to hop over to the playground to play with other kids, we could take walks right to the river for swimming or (after the rain) "viewing". If you can catch a dry weekend, this campground must be utter perfection. Would probably be dicey in sustained rain, especially if you're on the river itself.
ScoutIf youre looking for away from people. Away from most people youll be. Well taken care of.
GuideNice camping here with great views of the river .
RangerWe thoroughly enjoyed this camp spot right on the river. LOTS of different birds. And it was so quiet!
GuideThis is a very accessible trail. We brought our 22ft Ember Overland Trailer down it with ease. While our trailer has high clearance and independent suspension.. you do not need that to get to some great sites!
We tried 3 different sites here and found campground 12 to be our favorite. It is secluded off the road, had amazing views, and tons of room for multiple cars or campers.
Hiking trails are also great and dog friendly!
Campgrounds near Buckhannon, West Virginia range from river-adjacent state parks to lakeside recreation areas with accommodations for various camping styles. Audra State Park Campground, located along the Middle Fork River, provides tent and RV sites with some electric hookups. Stonewall Resort State Park Campground offers cabin and glamping options in addition to traditional camping facilities. Most campgrounds in the region feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, while some provide additional amenities such as shower facilities, sanitary dump stations, and camp stores. Several sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, though not all locations are suitable for large rigs.
Seasonal availability varies significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds operating from mid-April through October. Audra State Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making weekday arrivals recommended for securing prime riverside sites. Sites along water features tend to fill quickly, especially during summer months. Most campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities with clean bathrooms and showers. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas. Weather conditions should be considered when planning, as river levels can rise rapidly after rain. According to one visitor, "The outer edge of the campground has sites next to the river but be weary of low sites during rainy days as the river rises rapidly."
The Middle Fork River provides a key attraction for campers in the Buckhannon area, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and riverside relaxation. Campers frequently highlight water access as a primary draw to campgrounds in the region. Trails throughout the area offer hiking opportunities and scenic views. Audra State Park features the Alum Cave Trail which follows the river and provides natural features to explore. While some campgrounds can become crowded during peak season, particularly on weekends, many sites maintain adequate spacing and privacy with tree coverage between campsites. A camper noted, "We were right on the river, surrounded by trees and could barely see the neighbors." Most locations accommodate pets, though rules require they remain leashed. Campgrounds in higher elevations tend to be cooler and may offer more seclusion from crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping near Buckhannon, WV?
Audra State Park Campground is the closest campground to Buckhannon, tucked away just outside of town. This beautiful campground is slightly off the beaten path but well worth the journey. For additional options within driving distance, Stonewall Resort State Park Campground near Weston offers drive-in camping with amenities including water, toilets, and sites that accommodate larger RVs. Both locations provide good bases for exploring the Buckhannon area and enjoying West Virginia's natural beauty.
What activities and things to do are available near Buckhannon WV campgrounds?
The Buckhannon area offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. At Tygart Lake State Park, you can enjoy water activities like fishing and boating. For hiking enthusiasts, Kumbrabow State Forest provides excellent trails through its 9,500-acre forest. Many campgrounds in the region offer fishing, swimming, and tubing opportunities in local rivers. Buckhannon itself is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College and has small-town charm with local shops and eateries. The area's mountain terrain makes it perfect for scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and photography throughout the seasons.
Are there private campgrounds available in the Buckhannon area?
Yes, there are private camping options near Buckhannon. Camp Holly is a beautiful private campground in the mountains of West Virginia that offers multiple camping styles including hammock, tent, cabin, or RV camping. Though off-grid, they do provide WiFi access. Another option is Broken Wheel Campground near Weston, which is a short drive from Buckhannon and features reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly spaces for RVers.
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