Camping options near Cass, West Virginia range from primitive backcountry sites to established campgrounds with electric hookups. The mountainous Pocahontas County area sits at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lowlands. Cell service throughout this region is limited by the National Radio Quiet Zone restrictions, with many campgrounds offering no connectivity.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Tea Creek Campground provides direct stream access for fishing. "This is a great place for pull-type campers or tent camping. Campground is always clean and access is directly off the scenic highway. Several hiking trails nearby," notes Jeff S.
Fire tower overnight stays: Seneca State Forest offers the unique Thorny Mountain Fire Tower rental. "Renting and staying in the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower is a special opportunity...The tower cabin structure has 360 views...11 windows and a windowed door...so you don't miss any of the show!" shares Dave V. Reservations must be made well in advance.
River recreation: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground sits directly on the water with boat access. "On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," mentions Tiel M. Most river sites require moderate hiking to reach water access points.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Bolar Mountain Recreation Area on Lake Moomaw offers both developed beach areas and primitive swimming spots. "We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access both times. Campground 2 site 53, has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim. Bring water shoes, the rocks can be sharp," recommends Nicole R.
Remote, quiet camping: Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area provides free primitive camping. "Really enjoyed this place. Maybe 5-10 min off of highway 220. There are maybe 5 ish spots to camp next to a river in this mountain valley. I took the one and only site just before the proper camp site," notes R C. This area has no facilities beyond a basic toilet.
Trail connectivity: Holly River State Park features waterfall hikes and river access. "The trails to the Overlook was a very difficult trail, but the view from the top was breathtaking. Worth the difficult hike," reports Cassia M. The park maintains multiple hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain is common in this mountainous region. At Holly River State Park, "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," according to Elaine L. Pack extra tarps and rain gear regardless of season.
Limited connectivity: No cell service is available at most campgrounds in the area. At Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park, "Note: It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it," explains Julie.
Supply planning: Most campgrounds are far from stores. At Seneca State Forest, one camper noted: "There is no cell service within 30 miles, so for an outsider who doesn't know the area, it was difficult to find the campsite. You also better bring everything you need beforehand. There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite," according to Evan G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Holly River State Park offers facilities for children. "This park has lots of hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," notes Hannah V.
Cabin alternatives: Elk River Camp and RV Park provides cabins and river access for kids. "Beautiful RV Park. Wonderful sites for parking your RV. Very well lit with very modern water and electric hook ups. All slips have a fire pit, bar-b-que grill and picnic tables," says Katrina B.
Wildlife viewing: Seneca State Forest offers abundant wildlife sightings. "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing," says Mike C. Morning and evening hours provide the best viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: For RV camping near Cass, West Virginia, prepare for uneven terrain. At Elk River Camp and RV Park, a reviewer noted: "Narrow gravel road to get to the newly developed portion of campground. We arrived during heavy rains & muddy site conditions... Gravel pad, one lane road in & out, under construction, 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground," reports Beth R.
Electric hookup verification: Seneca Shadows offers electric sites but capacity varies. "It is very quite and beautiful here. They have electric hook up with a dumpstation and non flush toilets. Other than that its perfect," shares Melissa M. Many established campgrounds offer limited 30-amp service rather than 50-amp connections.
Off-season camping: Riverside Campground at Watoga State Park maintains longer operating seasons. "Large sites, clean bath house and showers. $52/night with tax. 110/30 amp electric at site. No sewer, no water at site. Water available, sewer dump station available," notes Danny M. This campground operates from early April through late December.
