Camden-on-Gauley sits at approximately 2,100 feet elevation in central West Virginia, where the Gauley River meets the Williams River. The surrounding mountainous terrain causes significant temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines, with summer highs typically reaching 85°F while evening temperatures can drop into the 50s. The region receives abundant rainfall even during summer months, requiring campers to prepare for sudden downpours.
What to do
Hiking near mountain creeks: Army Camp at New River Gorge National Park features accessible trails along waterways. "Glade Creek Trail follows an old RR bed with easy terrain. Being early in the spring, there was still some deadfall across parts of the trail that required some maneuvering and even though it is a raised old narrow gauge RR bed, it still got muddy," notes Dave V., who recommends several trails branching off the main path.
Fishing opportunities: The New River Gorge area offers excellent fishing access at several campgrounds within driving distance of Camden-on-Gauley. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," writes Jean C., who stayed at Glade Creek Campground.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best opportunities for wildlife viewing at campgrounds throughout the region. At Summer Wind RV Park, Randy G. reports you can "sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings" while enjoying strong cellular service with "AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars."
What campers like
Free camping options: Several no-cost camping options exist within driving distance of Camden-on-Gauley. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free," notes Rachel S. about Army Camp, adding there were "good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Camden-on-Gauley maintain varying levels of cleanliness. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, a camper reports "Bathrooms also are cleaned only once per day per a post telling the cleaning times however the men's facility was dirty and with out paper towels up until the day we left." In contrast, Camp Holly receives praise for exceptional upkeep: "The bathrooms are the cleanest and well kept camp bath houses I have ever seen."
Water access: Direct lake or river access remains a major attraction for campers. At Battle Run, Jason Y. describes a "beautiful campground with several site right on the lake. Has a large beach area and bathhouses are cleaned regularly. Water is super clean."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Campgrounds operate different booking systems, from government reservation platforms to honor systems. At Summer Wind RV Park, a camper explains, "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine."
Site conditions for tents: Terrain can be challenging for tent setup. "The ground is great for tents, no rocks," reports Rhys R. about Glade Creek Campground, contrasting with other areas where rocky or uneven ground requires careful tent placement.
Water availability: Many campgrounds have limited or no potable water. Zayne W. advises about Glade Creek Campground: "No drinking water, so bring your own. No hookups." Similarly, at Army Camp, Tucker B. recommends bringing sufficient water or having "a good filtration system" for river water.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children, site selection near play areas makes supervision easier. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, Nick C. reports: "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."
Multiple activity options: Campgrounds offering varied amenities help keep children occupied. "Mountain Lake Campground is a massive system of varied campsites... the property has so many amenities (shower houses, laundromats, pools, ice cream store, and playgrounds)," writes Christopher S.
Water safety considerations: Rivers and lakes near Camden-on-Gauley campgrounds can have strong currents. Dave V. cautions about Army Camp: "Caution: Use extreme prudence if choosing to enter the New River itself. This is an incredibly popular whitewater rafting and paddling river…currents are fast, powerful and dangerous."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for large rigs: RV campgrounds near Camden-on-Gauley often require navigating challenging roads. Beth R. describes Elk River Camp and RV Park access: "Narrow gravel road to get to the newly developed portion of campground. We arrived during heavy rains & muddy site conditions... One lane road in & out... 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground."
Unlevel sites: Many rv campgrounds in Camden-on-Gauley, West Virginia and surrounding areas require leveling equipment. At Mountain Lake Campground, Tamara W. notes: "most sites are not level at all," requiring adjustments for comfortable setup.
Services limitations: RVers should prepare for varying hookup availability. John R. observed at Elk River Camp: "Mix of wonderful water and electric sites with ok full hookups. Beautiful river spots. The owner was wonderful. No laundry, showers or wifi. The price was $40 a night full hookups."
