Camping in Buckhannon offers direct access to the Middle Fork River valley at elevations around 1,750 feet. The area features sandstone formations, multiple river tributaries, and seasonal whitewater opportunities when spring and fall rains swell waterways. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during daytime, with cooler nights in forest settings.
What to do
Whitewater paddling on Middle Fork River: During spring and fall rain seasons, the Middle Fork River transforms into challenging whitewater. "I met several whitewater paddlers that convened on Audra State Park during this rainfall to run the rapids. Paddlers from all over the country...and one from Germany," notes Dave V.
Fishing multiple species: The region offers trout and smallmouth bass fishing in clear river waters. At Five River Campground, "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," according to T N T. Bring a West Virginia fishing license.
Hiking forest trails: The Alum Cave trail system provides moderate terrain hiking with unique geological features. "The views of various parts of the river were spectacular...The trail will deposit you in a picnic area above the campground," shares a reviewer about trails at Audra State Park.
Family swimming areas: Designated swimming spots throughout the region provide safe water access. One visitor noted, "Across the road is a day use area for swimming and tubing - bring your own or rent one."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses with reliable amenities receive consistently positive reviews. "The bathhouse is spotlessly clean and felt like a spa. The showers were comfortable and had hot water," says Alia about Kick Back n Camp.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote areas, several campgrounds maintain reliable connectivity. "It is one of the only campgrounds in all of WV where you have cell service...and wifi!" reports a Five River Campground visitor.
Evening campfires by water: Many campsites feature fire rings positioned to maximize river views. Brian D. mentions, "You can hear the river flowing past the grounds. There is on-site laundry between the main shower house, and a nice general store for ice, wood, or any other supplies you may have forgotten."
Geological features: Unique rock formations accessible via short hikes. "Alum Cave reminds me of Ohio's Ash Cave near Hocking Hills...Water constantly passes through the sandstone, so when it freezes it can cause large chunks of rock to fracture and drop."
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly Thursday through Sunday during peak season. "Nice weekends from May to October fill up fast and Day Use areas are packed full. The park may start the reservations program in the future, but it's first come-first served presently," advises a visitor about Audra State Park.
Road access challenges: Narrow, twisting roads pose difficulties for large vehicles. At Broken Wheel Campground, "The tent sites are far from rest rooms. It's a bit muddy when it rains," notes Randel B.
River level fluctuations: Waterfront sites can flood during heavy rainfall periods. "Riverside sites can and have flooded during high rain periods as the Middle Fork swells its banks," warns a reviewer.
Limited supplies: Stock up before arrival at smaller campgrounds. "If you forget anything, the campground office had everything you needed for purchase," mentions a Kick Back n Camp visitor, though selection varies significantly between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pond fishing for beginners: Children can practice fishing skills at stocked ponds with high success rates. At Family Fishing N' Camping, "The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and gaurentee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts!" shares keri S.
Protected swimming areas: Shallow river sections provide safer water play for supervised children. One camper mentioned about Audra State Park: "We were fortunate to find one along the river which was great to sit by a fire while the kids swam."
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated play structures. "The camp has a decent bath house and playground," notes Elaine L. about pet-friendly amenities in the region.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times. "The forest teems with wildlife," according to one camper's experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many wooded campgrounds require leveling blocks on uneven terrain. Robert H. notes about Audra State Park Campground, "A beautiful park located on a river very quiet. Campsites are small only electric is available bathhouse clean. The roads are very narrow with sharp turns."
Electrical hookup positioning: Some sites have utilities positioned inconveniently. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," reports Kevin E.
Road clearance concerns: Low-hanging branches and tight turns require caution. "Big/long RV's (driven or pulled) have difficulty navigating this narrow, curvy campground road pocked with rocky outcroppings. Park in the day use parking by the bridge or picnic area and scout it out first," advises a seasoned camper.
Advance scouting recommended: Survey potential sites before attempting to position larger rigs. "We have a 16' BTW...The pull throughs are too close to backin sites, so if you come in to pull through, you may have to ask your neighbor to move his vehicle," shares Cynthia K.
Ranger
