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TravelerAdventures on the Gorge - Mill Creek
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It is full service campground with store, restaurant, swimming pool, paintball, and cabin.
Camping near Craigsville, WV
146 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Craigsville, West Virginia serves as a gateway to numerous camping options throughout the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding areas. The Cranberry River region provides multiple developed campgrounds including Cranberry Campground, Big Rock Campground, and Bishop Knob Campground, all offering primitive sites for tent and small RV camping. Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins features more amenities with full RV hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping opportunities. Summersville Lake accommodates water-oriented camping with sites at Battle Run and Summersville Lake Retreat. Most campgrounds maintain a rustic character with basic facilities, while offering proximity to fishing, hiking, and water recreation.
Access to many campgrounds requires travel on gravel Forest Service roads with limited cell service, particularly in the Cranberry River area. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with some sites available year-round. "This area of Monongahela was lovely, there were tons of great spots along the Cranberry River to explore," noted one visitor about the campground options. Travelers should prepare for cool mountain temperatures even in summer, as elevation changes can significantly impact weather conditions. Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration, particularly at Forest Service sites like Bishop Knob and Big Rock. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage practices at all camping locations.
The Cranberry River draws fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts seeking remote experiences with excellent trout fishing opportunities. Campers consistently praise the quiet, wooded settings and river access available at Cranberry and Big Rock campgrounds. A visitor remarked, "If you're looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long rest, look no further. The fishing here is the best around." Summersville Lake provides a contrasting experience with swimming, boating, and more developed facilities. Many sites offer picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, though amenities vary significantly between Forest Service campgrounds and private operations like Mountain Lake Campground. The surrounding wilderness areas provide additional backpacking opportunities with shelters available along trails. Campgrounds near water tend to fill quickly during summer weekends and fishing season, especially those with direct river or lake access.
Best Campgrounds near Craigsville (146)
1. Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins
"We took site 269 for the proximity to one of the little playgrounds and easy walk to bathrooms. We had a great time and it was easy to let our 3 year old play while we setup."
"I used to love Mtn Lake because of their secluded primitive camping where deer often visit and provided a quiet place away from the busy RV sites, however they gave into demand and now have overrun the"
2. Battle Run
"Whether it's weekend camping with friends/ family or some where to crash after a long day on the lake/ river you won't regret staying in beautiful West Virginia."
"The restroom & shower facilities were easily within walking distance. The facilities could use a deep clean but overall were fine."
from $24 - $40 / night
Check Availability3. Cranberry River Sites NF Campground
"Cranberry River dispersed camping along Forest Road 76 offers quiet, scenic, riverside primitive campsites with excellent fishing and easy access to the surrounding wilderness."
"long path along river, very beautiful area"
4. Bishop Knob Campground
"It’s a great spot with flowers and plants planted around the site entrance, and the wooded area behind the site has been cleared out, giving it a more open and usable feel than many of the other sites."
5. Gauley Tailwaters Campground — Gauley River National Recreation Area
"there are bathrooms and tap water, but no electrical or showers. you park right next to your tent. you can walk down to the gauley river. you may see many white water rafters here for this reason."
"You can hike trails to the river, even to a beautiful swimming spot just below the dam and camping sites!"
6. Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse
"You check in in a fantastic little gift shop adjacent to the lighthouse The gift shop has everything from mugs to camping needs.. and a lovely selection of local wine (seasonally) The lighthouse who's"
"Dave and Kim are great people, have a beautiful and well cared for campground very close to the Gauley River."
from $40 - $56 / night
Check Availability7. Cranberry Campground
"Cranberry Campground is located in West Virginia close to the town of Richwood on the Cranberry River. All the sites are rustic."
"We found a good tucked in site (#27) that was close to the water pump and was surrounded by the woods. "
8. Summit Lake Campground
"Summit Lake Campground is a quiet, clean campground in the Monongahela National Forest. I stayed one night and really enjoyed the fishing on the lake."
"Walking trails to the lake and what a lake! We shall return at some point when it doesn't snow between 80 degree weeks."
from $10 / night
Check Availability9. Beaver Lakes Campground
"We're so excited to have Beaver Lakes Campground on our platform. Hop in your RV, or bring a tent!"
from $33 / night
Check Availability10. Big Rock Campground
"Big Rock Campground is a small heavily-wooded campground, with five-spaces, located next to the Cranberry River in Nicholas County, WV. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and lantern pole."
Drive Time
- 58 min from Beckley, WV
- 2 hrs 15 min from Blacksburg, VA
- 2 hrs 21 min from Parkersburg, WV
Recent Camping Photos near Craigsville, WV
272 Photos of 146 Craigsville Campgrounds
Jennifer B.
Big Rock Campground
Camp With Me
Cranberry River Sites NF Campground
Camp With Me
Bishop Knob Campground
Michael L.
Basecamp Williams River
Vicky M.
Cranberry Campground
Jim P.
Summit Lake Campground
Mounatin Lake C.
Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins
Ramone P.
Summersville Lake Tiny Camper
Chase J.
Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse
Ruby W.
Gauley Tailwaters Campground — Gauley River National Recreation Area
Jean C.
Battle Run
bobbi L.
Camp Holly
Recent Reviews near Craigsville, WV
663 Reviews of 146 Craigsville Campgrounds
- DDaniel P.
ScoutBattle Run
Clearest Water I’ve Ever Seen In a Lake!
My family and I had an absolute blast at Battle Run! The campsite offered an incredible view of the lake, and if boating is your passion, you can even secure your boat right at your campsite! Although the weather was a bit rainy, the temperature remained comfortably in the 70s. We’re already planning our return next summer.
Cari E.
RangerLittle Beaver State Park Campground
Nice trails, an okay site
The second time I stayed was in site 36, which was far preferable to 41 as it was a larger site, but still moderately unlevel. Fun hiking trails down the creek and close proximity to New River Gorge.
- Cari E.Ranger
Little Beaver State Park Campground
Ok campground, close to New River Gorge
I ended up enjoying the park more than expected—disc golf was a nice surprise! However I found that loop 2 wasn’t nearly as nice or spacious as the other camping areas. The sites were small and unlevel, but the bathrooms were nice enough for a state park. I enjoyed walks around the lake (lots of fun fungi and fish to spy) but the main draw for me was the proximity to New River Gorge—only a 20-25 min drive.
- Johnna R.Scout
Beaver Creek Campground — Watoga State Park
5 nights in July
I camp at beaver creek campground yearly and have for the past 5 years. This past year they have built new family bathroom facilities, and a new playground. The nature, beauty and stars at night are unmatched.
Daniel P.ScoutTawney Farm
Aggressive Owners
My fiance booked our stay at Tawney Farms back in May for the two of us plus her parents. When her parents arrived to the camp they were already checked in when we first arrived. My my inlaws proceeded to our camp site. Once they got to the site theywere greeted by the male owner speeding up the trail in his truck almost hitting his own wife and began yelling at my inlaws stating theybhad no business being on their property and to get off. My inlaws tried explaining to them that they were with us and they we had paid for them. The male owner continued yelling at them aggressively and swearing at them to the point both of my inlaws were concerned that owner was going to do something physical. My inlaws ultimately left and called us and told us what happened. We dropped what we were doing and drove back to the property in hopes to resolve the confusion. My fiance and I showed them the reservation recipt showing that they were paid for. They maintained that they are being kicked out stating that they did not stop at the shack that no one was at. They were already checked in so there was no reason to need that. in fact it wasnt necessary last year then stated that they were drunk which they were not. They had just finished a 4 hour drive from PA after working their shift. They would not listed to reason. They then went into a shack to look at their paperwork and realized once again that theybare wrong and rather than a simple appology they maintained kicking them out and stated they were going to "let us go". At this point its about 10pm and we had to pack up our campsite and find an alternative short notice on july 3rd... $500 later for a hotel room we got lucky. They almost cost us our vacation because of their inability to reason or even listen.
- TTesia C.Scout
Tawney Farm
Hostile owners do NOT stay here!!
We scheduled our stay two months in advance for our Fourth of July weekend. My fiance and myself were scheduled one night earlier than my parents were supposed to arrive. We paid for everyone in our party and checked everyone in. We had been coming up to place to camp for five summers now, but this most recent experience was more than enough for us to NEVER come back. My fiancé and I were out off the campground to get ice when my mother called me to tell my the owners of the farm CHASED them out the campground, the husband almost running over his wife, insisting they were not welcome and had no business being at the farm when I prepaid everyone’s stay. My parents were terrified this man was going to pull a gun on them. The owners belittled my parents after they drove four hours from PA to spend time with us, screaming over them that they were drunk, speeding, and that my parents didn’t “stop” at the vacant building that they are supposed to be at to greet people. The owners would not even bother to check to verify my parents stay. When we got back to the site to try to reconcile the situation they still would not allow my parents to stay even after seeing that we did pay for my family to be there and were even hesitant to let us stay when we did NOTHING wrong. We had to pay an extra $500 to book a last minute stay at a hotel in Summersville when I already paid near $300 to stay at Tawny Farm. My fiance and I had to pack up our entire campsite in the dark because they would not let us stay over my parents being confused about where they were at. I still have not received any emails regarding a refund for the unwarranted behavior towards my parents. I would not bring your loved ones onto this property. The owners are unstable, unsafe, and unwilling to care about their customers.
- SSydneyTraveler
Little Beaver State Park Campground
Quiet and Clean
We stayed at Little Beaver in late June and were overall very pleased with the campground! Site 38 is probably the most private within loop 1 (tent camp area) its two buddy sites are a little ways away (shouting distance) with plenty of trees in between. The site is relatively level and pretty rocky. Note that there is a walking path that runs directly behind the site and will take you over to loop 2. There weren't too many people using it while we were there though. Camp staff were friendly and helpful, if you get a confirmation email there is no need to check in you can drive straight to your campsite.
The one drawback of this campground is how far away the bathrooms are. You have to drive to the bathrooms/showers from loop 1. It's about a 10 minute walk. Tough in the middle of the night...
This is always a toss up, but while we were there the campground was very quiet even with most of sites booked.
Beautiful little walking path around a small lake that you can take paddle boats out on. Also a few little picnic areas and more than one playground, including one right by the lake and one right by the camp office.
We went white water rafting with ACE (had a great time!) which was about 45 min away and my parents who were camping with us went on a bridge walk (also about 45 min away) and enjoyed that, too.
Overall, great campground to explore New River Gorge area.
- NNicole Z.Traveler
Lake Sherwood Road Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest
Off grid sites
Well maintained blacktop road which made it easy to get a camper or a van through. Some of the sites further up the road are away from the creek but less buggy. They were large and well-maintained. I like the privacy of the sites further up. I would highly recommend this off upgrade site.
Guide to Craigsville
Camping near Craigsville, West Virginia centers around access points to the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding water bodies at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences typical mountain climate patterns with temperature drops of 10-15 degrees from daytime highs, even during summer months. Campsites along forest service roads FR76 and FR86 provide varying levels of amenities depending on their proximity to water sources.
What to do
Fishing access points: Most campsites along the Cranberry River offer direct water access for trout fishing, particularly during spring stocking season. "The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other," notes a visitor to Cranberry River Sites NF Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds to wilderness areas and scenic viewpoints. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, visitors appreciate the trail options: "Trails were never nicely marked and well cleared. Good size spaces and distance between each camper," writes one reviewer.
Scuba diving: Summersville Lake provides clear water conditions for underwater exploration, with depths reaching 327 feet. "It is one of the clearest lakes in the east, so scuba diving is also very popular here," according to reviews of Battle Run Campground, making it a unique activity option not available at most mountain camping destinations.
What campers like
Quiet woodland settings: Many campsites offer secluded spots away from crowds. A camper at Big Rock Campground notes, "This campground is popular for remote fishing when the Cranberry River is up and it gives hikers access to numerous trails in the Cranberry Wilderness."
Lake swimming opportunities: Summersville Lake provides beaches and swimming areas with clear water. "The lake is amazing, clear and has so many visual gems that I highly suggest a visit," reports a camper at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report regular deer sightings and other wildlife encounters. At Gauley Tailwaters Campground, campers appreciate "waking up to the sound of the river and then paired with the most gorgeous view. unbeatable. way worth the drive to get there."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cellular connectivity. "You can't be online at the cabin. Just enjoy disconnecting," advises one camper visiting the area. Prepare for limited communication options throughout much of the region.
Weather changes: Mountain elevations cause significant temperature drops after sunset. "Packing gear for the hot of the day and the cool of the night is essential even in July," notes a visitor to Cranberry Campground.
Bear activity: All campgrounds report black bear presence requiring proper food storage. "This is bear-country, so food needs to be kept out of reach of black bears," warns a camper at Cranberry Campground. Use provided bear-proof trash containers where available or store food in vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for easier supervision. "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site," shares a visitor to Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Swimming options: Summersville Lake offers family-friendly beach areas with gradual entry points. A camper at Battle Run reports, "We visit this campground every year and have for the past 20 years. Great lake access for your boat from the campground. Our favorite family vacation spot."
Kid-friendly activities: Some private campgrounds offer additional recreation options. "Sites are big, easily accessible, clean, and not too close to your neighbors. Decent showerhouses with hot water! Cute little store with ice cream, firewood, ice, knick knacks, and a few grocery items. Weekend activities for the kids, putt putt, a pool, several swingset/play areas," notes a Mountain Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "Most sites are not level at all," warns a camper at Mountain Lake Campground, suggesting RVers bring adequate leveling equipment for comfort.
Power limitations: Several campgrounds report occasional electrical issues during peak demand. "A/C power was an issue. 1 camper had 30 amp breaker blow 2 days in a row and my 50 amp ran A.C. units fan but didn't cool all day," reports an RVer at Mountain Lake Campground.
Road access considerations: Forest service roads to campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill," cautions an RV camper, indicating the importance of researching road conditions before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Craigsville, WV?
What camping is available near Craigsville, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, Craigsville, WV offers a wide range of camping options, with 146 campgrounds and RV parks near Craigsville, WV and 13 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Craigsville, WV?
Which is the most popular campground near Craigsville, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Craigsville, WV is Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins with a 4.3-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Craigsville, WV?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Craigsville, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Craigsville, WV.
What parks are near Craigsville, WV?
What parks are near Craigsville, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Craigsville, WV that allow camping, notably Summersville Lake and Sutton Lake.
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