RV campsites near Clarksburg, West Virginia provide access to the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding mountainous terrain ranging from 1,000-4,000 feet elevation. Most camping facilities operate from April through October, with autumn temperatures averaging 45-65°F. Cellular coverage varies significantly between valleys and ridgelines, with stronger connections typically available at campgrounds within 5-10 miles of Interstate 79.
What to do
River activities: Five River Campground offers direct access to Shavers Fork River where campers can fish, tube, and paddle. A camper noted, "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property. We also spent a little time fishing."
Hiking trails: Smokey Bottom Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby trails. "This campground was very close to hiking trails in the area and was close enough to Elkins to quickly run into town. The campground host was very friendly and recommend hikes in the area," shares a visitor.
Historic sites: Explore the Grafton National Cemetery and the International Mother's Day Shrine, both within 15 miles of most Clarksburg area campgrounds. These sites offer cultural experiences during breaks from outdoor activities.
Mountain biking: The rail trails connecting Clarksburg to surrounding communities offer moderate terrain suitable for recreational cyclists. Most trails follow former railroad corridors with gentle grades under 3%.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground provides primitive waterfront sites with community amenities. "The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," shares a camper.
Helpful owners: Many campgrounds near Clarksburg feature attentive management. At Five River Campground, "The owners are amazing! John always made time to stop by and ask us if we needed anything. He was awesome."
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "We backed up to a large field (spot 3) and had a great view of the river! I didn't feel crowded at all!" reports a camper about their experience.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and common areas at campgrounds throughout the region.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Clarksburg area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Come prepared with tarps and proper rain gear.
Limited winter options: DaLazyBear is one of the few partial hookup options operating outside peak season. A camper describes it as "Secluded with conveniences nearby," making it suitable for off-season stays.
Campground access: Some mountain campgrounds require navigating steep, narrow roads. Many sites are not suitable for larger RVs over 30 feet.
Reservation needs: Most motorhome and travel trailer sites near Clarksburg require advance booking, especially during summer weekends and fall foliage season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water spots: Several campgrounds offer shallow river access ideal for children. At Five River Campground, "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it."
Town amenities: Elk River Camp and RV Park provides proximity to essential services. "Mark, the owner & host, ask us to call & he'd meet us at local gas station so we could follow him to our site," mentions a family who appreciated the convenience.
Recreational facilities: Several campgrounds within 20 miles of Clarksburg feature playgrounds, sports fields and game rooms for children during inclement weather.
Educational opportunities: The Clarksburg area offers several museums and interpretive centers focusing on local history and ecology, providing educational experiences for school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Harris RV Park offers essential RV services. A camper noted, "Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing. He met us with a welcome packet in a reusable bag. Full hookup alone is worth more than 25 bucks."
Site selection: When booking RV sites near Clarksburg, request spots away from the main entrance road for reduced traffic noise.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in this mountainous region require leveling blocks. One camper reported, "The sites were very level and there was plenty of room between sites. Water, sewer and electric all worked well."
Campground amenities: RVers appreciate campgrounds with on-site stores for essential supplies. At Five River Campground, "The store onsite has just about anything you could need for your stay including firewood."
