Near Burlington, West Virginia, campgrounds provide access to the wooded mountain terrain of the South Branch Valley. At 800-1,000 feet elevation, the area experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows often below freezing. The region offers camping options along the South Branch of the Potomac River and in nearby forested settings.
What to do
Kayaking and tubing access: At Wapocoma Campground visitors can launch directly from the campground. "Right on the river! Plenty of room for Big 5th wheels the lower sights are a little close but nothing terrible. People are very friendly. You can float the river from old fields right to your camp!" notes camper Shawn M.
Trout fishing: The South Branch River provides productive angling opportunities throughout spring and early summer. "Fishing is great as well, we never catch anything huge but the numbers are always fantastic with a 40 or 50 day not uncommon," reports camper JD L. at Wapocoma Campground.
Exploring hiking trails: Savage River State Forest offers extensive wooded trails within driving distance. A camper notes, "Plenty to do in the area. We went on a hike to the highest point in MD, saw Cumberland, and went to Morgantown for a day."
What campers like
Secluded woodland campsites: Middle Ridge Campground offers sites set back in the trees. "The sites are actually in a wooded area not just a big field. Each site has full hookups," explains Aaron J. Another camper adds, "We really enjoyed our stay. Quiet camping on top of a mountain. Beautiful wooded views. Hosts were amazing and plenty of space between campers."
Water access for summer cooling: Barnum Whitewater Area provides direct river access for swimming. "Gorgeous landscape and it's my peace," notes Ashley A., who describes the area as "peaceful in September."
Affordable rates: Cost-conscious campers appreciate the value at several area campgrounds. At Barnum Whitewater Area, "Primitive campsites are $10 a night. Small cabins are $35 a night, with larger cabins going at $56 a night. There is electricity in the cabins," according to Frank G.
What you should know
Pet restrictions vary by campground: While many locations allow dogs, some have specific breed limitations. "We really wanted to go to this campground, but 'no bully breeds' allowed means we will never go or recommend," notes a visitor about Wapocoma Campground.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Robert W. Craig - Jennings Randolph Lake provides rustic camping with basic facilities. A camper explains, "Drinking water right next to the site (37) as well as a trail to a restroom - I think there's a shower on the other loop/section. $22 for a basic (non-electric) tent site."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. A visitor to Savage River State Forest warns, "The roads were all paved which was nice...We initially wanted to camp at the whitewater sites, but we are so glad we didn't because those sites ended up becoming a parking lot for people who were there for the dam release."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy the animal encounters at Middle Ridge Campground. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" writes Kayla M. "Seeing the equine daily was a huge plus; they were super sweet and funny," adds Nastausha H.
Swimming areas: Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers designated swimming zones. "The campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle," reports Marcandpatti B. Another camper mentions, "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds host regular events for children. "This is a great family campground. Friendly staff. Affordable rates. Sites are level mostly with grass sites. Many of the sites are very large. There is a playground for the kids and bring the bikes for them to ride around the campground," notes Erica M. about Wapocoma Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and privacy: RVers value the site layout at dog friendly campgrounds near Burlington. At Middle Ridge Campground, "They laid out the sites so that you're not side by side. They are all on an angle which moves you further away from anyone on both sides. The angled site also was great for driving just past you're site and practically backing straight back into you're site," explains George M.
Utility considerations: Water pressure and connectivity vary between locations. A camper at Middle Ridge Campground reports, "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi. No issues with power or sewer. Starlink was sketchy at best, Verizon had one bar and slightly usable, ATT was best with a couple of bars and ok speeds."
Access limitations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. Stephen H. notes about Middle Ridge, "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer."
