Campgrounds near Colfax, West Virginia offer natural woodlands and mountain settings within the Appalachian region. Located at elevations between 1,700-2,000 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with cool evenings and vibrant fall foliage starting in mid-September. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with snow possible from late October through April.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 3-5 miles accessible from campsites at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground. The park maintains several difficulty levels of trails with connections to larger regional systems. "This is a very oddly laid out campground... There's a trail that literally goes through someone's site. Choose your site wisely!" notes Robert H.
Fishing opportunities: Trout and smallmouth bass available in Shavers Fork River at Five River Campground. Fishing licenses required and can be purchased in nearby towns. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," reports T N T. "We spent a little time fishing... The view and sunsets over the river made for gorgeous pictures."
Rock climbing: Routes suitable for beginners through intermediates at Coopers Rock State Forest. Most climbing pitches under 50 feet with various difficulty ratings. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" explains Nick P.
What campers like
Quiet camping areas: CAMP73ROCKST☆R provides peaceful spots away from highway noise. Sites include 30-amp electrical hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. "Safe place to pull over for the night right of interstate," says Kelly K., highlighting its convenience for travelers needing rest.
River access: Walk-in campsites at Audra State Park Campground offer direct water views. Many campsites sit along the river's edge with crystal-clear water flowing over large rocks. "Most of the 67 campsites are along the river's edge, or have visual of it. There are a few situated on the outer loop but it takes about a minute to walk to the river from any of these," reports Dave V.
Off-season tranquility: Late September to April camping provides solitude and different wildlife viewing opportunities. "In mid-May 2018, electric was in the process of being run to nearly all the inner loop and most river sites... The campground was pretty full but didn't seem crowded or noisy," writes Katie M. The changing seasons transform the camping experience completely.
What you should know
Weather changes quickly: Prepare for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, especially in spring and fall. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises Kellie A.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Colfax have specific rules: Pets must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended. Many campgrounds offer designated pet exercise areas. "We appreciated the poop bags and trash cans conveniently located around the campground. Our pups loved it, especially swimming!" notes Lauren R.
Campground layouts vary significantly: Rhododendron Camping Area offers more secluded sites than others. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds! It is quiet and the sites are spacious. There is a bathhouse located closest to site 5 with trails from other sites to get there," shares Sienna L.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature child-friendly play equipment within walking distance of campsites. "There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play," says Kevin H. about McCollum Campground at Coopers Rock.
Swimming holes: Safe water play areas with gradual entry points for children at several locations. "In warmer climes, the river is a welcomed respite...soaking weary muscles and cooling off," describes Dave V. about Audra State Park.
Pet-friendly hiking trails: Family Fishing N' Camping offers short paths suitable for dogs and children. "Used to go here all the time while in college. Such a beautiful, fun and awesome place," mentions Carrie R. "My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection tips: Request sites away from dump stations for better experience. "The dump station is in a weird spot and the only water available is the same used for flushing," notes Kevin E. "There's a dump that's in the middle of the first loop. You have to go the wrong way on a one way road to dump. Campsite 40 I would avoid since it's close to the dump."
Electrical considerations: Many parks recently upgraded electrical service but have differing amperage options. "50amp - No issues. We had empty space on either side of us. New section is spaced out with a berm of earth in between alot of the sites," reports Josh W. about the recent upgrades at Coopers Rock State Forest.
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring blocks or leveling systems. "Site 166 is not flat what so ever," warns Tanner W. about Ohiopyle State Park, highlighting the importance of bringing proper leveling equipment for RVs.
Ranger
