Camping opportunities near Camp Creek, West Virginia exist within the Appalachian Mountain range where elevations range from 2,000 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Several free and low-cost camping options sit within close proximity to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, providing both tent and RV accommodations with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Camp Creek State Park offers multiple waterfall trails accessible from the main camping areas. "Hiking is difficult in some areas but spectacularly beautiful. The campground staff was very friendly, and the amenities were clean and kept up," notes a visitor to Mash Fork Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The New River provides diverse fishing options with multiple access points. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," explains a camper who stayed at Army Camp Campground.
Trail running and biking: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. "The campgrounds are great for biking and hiking trails. The views from the roads are incredible," shares a visitor to Meador Campground.
Water activities: During summer months, several locations offer swimming and floating options. "There is an outdoor pool within walking distance of campground but the playgrounds need upgraded. Lots of space to run around for the kids," notes one camper at Meador Campground.
What campers like
Free camping options: Several no-cost camping locations exist within the New River Gorge area. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," reports a visitor to Army Camp Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "Evening river dips before bed. Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," mentions a camper at Glade Creek Campground.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds provide well-separated sites. "We were in site number eight, it backed up to the creek and was quite private with the exception of the trail on the other side of the creek," notes a visitor at Mash Fork Campground.
Mountain views: The elevated terrain creates scenic vistas throughout the area. "Very relaxing spot, right by the river with plenty of spaces to hammock down by there. We were lucky and got one of the last spots, there's only 11," states a camper at Glade Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal bathroom closures: Some facilities close during winter months despite year-round camping. "We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient. Rustic camping is fine when we have planned for it," cautions a visitor to Mash Fork Campground.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," mentions a camper at Summer Wind RV Park.
Early arrival recommended: Free camping areas fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Spots fill quickly. Stayed here for a few nights with 3 other people. We had 1 big tent, 2 vehicles and a few dogs and had plenty of room," advises a visitor to Army Camp Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must," warns a camper at Mash Fork Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming facilities suitable for children. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," reports a visitor to Pipestem RV Park & Campground.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. "All the roads are paved making it easy for the little ones to ride bikes," notes a camper at Meador Campground.
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities for children to observe animals safely. "Very peaceful with good people camping while I was here. Area for people to swim in the river or fish," shares a visitor to Army Camp Campground.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate clothing and gear. "Showers were the best of any campground I've seen- water gets as hot as you'd like, with great water pressure and plenty of hooks and towel racks," mentions a camper at Mash Fork Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose sites based on size requirements and hookup needs. "Emailed to reserve spot in the evening and heard back right away. They have an honesty box to leave payment. Great views and not a lot of road noise. If you want easy level spots row c is best (which is where 50 amps are)," advises an RVer at Summer Wind RV Park.
Access considerations: Some RV camping near Camp Creek, West Virginia requires careful navigation. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in. Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store (like we did)," cautions a visitor to Army Camp Campground.
Water filtration needs: Lack of potable water at some locations necessitates filtration equipment. "Water access is not problem if you have a good filtration system. The view of the river is absolutely beautiful!!" notes a camper at Army Camp Campground.
Site leveling: Most established campgrounds provide reasonably level sites. "All camper pads are paved, have a generous camper pad length, and most are spread a decent amount of space apart," reports a visitor to Mash Fork Campground.
