Tucked within the Allegheny Mountains of central West Virginia, the Buckhannon area offers campers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 4,800 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds near Buckhannon feature riverside locations with varying levels of privacy between sites. The region receives significant rainfall year-round, which contributes to the lush forest environments and creates ideal conditions for the area's numerous waterfalls.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Elk River near Elk River Camp and RV Park provides excellent fishing spots within walking distance of campsites. "The park is right on the beautiful Elk River where you can swim, float or kayak," notes reviewer Katrina B., highlighting the multiple water recreation options available.
Waterfall exploration: Several cascades are accessible within a 45-minute drive of Buckhannon. At Holly River State Park Campground, visitors can hike to four different waterfalls. "The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," reports Hannah V.
River activities: The Shavers Fork River at Five River Campground in Parsons (about 30 miles from Buckhannon) offers calm water sections ideal for beginners. "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property," writes Jamie R., describing a popular summer activity.
What campers like
Private riverfront camping: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground provides natural settings without manufactured tent pads. "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," states Tiel M., appreciating the less developed experience.
Mountain views: Seneca Shadows Campground offers exceptional vistas from its tent sites. "You can just roll in, set up & hit the most amazing trails!! Wonderful view of Seneca Rocks," reports Chris E., highlighting the scenic location approximately 60 miles from Buckhannon.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Holly River State Park Campground provide opportunities to spot local fauna. "There was a lot of wildlife to enjoy as you go through the park: deer, Turkey," shares Cassia M., describing the natural encounters available.
What you should know
Seasonal rainfall patterns: Many campgrounds in the region experience regular precipitation, particularly in the mountain valleys. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," notes Elaine L. about Holly River State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds near Buckhannon. "There was no phone signal at all for Verizon service, so a nice place to disconnect," reports Cassia M. about Holly River State Park Campground, contrasting with Five River Campground where a reviewer noted "cell service since we were right outside of town which is hard to find in WV."
Reservation timing: During summer months and fall foliage season, securing spots well in advance is necessary. While some campgrounds like DaLazyBear offer secluded options with nearby conveniences, campsites with the best views or water access fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated recreation facilities for children. "Perfect if you have children. There is a pool and other activities available," mentions Missy S. about camping at Stonewall Resort State Park Campground.
Easier trails: For families with younger children, seek out the boardwalk-accessible waterfall trails. The Upper Falls at Holly River has "a newer wooden boardwalk and stairway. Masterfully done (much like Blackwater Falls)," according to Dave V., though he cautions they can be slippery when wet.
Swimming options: Campgrounds with river access often provide safer swimming areas for children. Five River Campground has sections of Shavers Fork that are "shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy," according to Jamie R., who also noted their family often had the river to themselves despite the campground being nearly full.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: For RVs over 30 feet, carefully research individual site dimensions. "Mix of wonderful water and electric sites with ok full hookups. Beautiful river spots," notes John R. about Elk River Camp and RV Park, indicating site quality varies even within the same campground.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads that may be problematic for larger rigs. At Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground, they recommend "RV's 30 foot or less" due to access limitations.
Hookup reliability: Electrical service quality varies between rv campgrounds near Buckhannon, West Virginia. One camper at Stonewall Resort State Park Campground reported, "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time," highlighting the importance of using surge protection equipment when connecting to campground power.
