Primitive camping near Craigsville, West Virginia offers opportunities for solitude in diverse terrain throughout the Monongahela National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 4,500 feet. Most dispersed sites receive annual rainfall of 55-60 inches, creating lush vegetation but occasionally challenging road conditions during spring and fall. Campsites typically feature established fire rings but require complete self-sufficiency for water, waste management, and supplies.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Elk River Dispersed camping area provides excellent trout fishing opportunities along the river. One visitor notes, "There is Elk Springs Resort & Fly Shop just down the road. Here you can hire a guide, or pay to fly fish their well stocked area." Remember that some sections have specific regulations, as the same camper warns, "The area where we camped is catch and release only!"
Hiking trails: Dispersed camping at Mower Basin offers numerous well-maintained hiking paths. A camper explains, "Following the road all the way to the final site you will cross paths with no fewer than 5 distinct and different toughness hiking trails, there are likely more, but I was only there for a week and would usually just do one trail a day." These trails accommodate various skill levels and provide access to scenic overlooks.
Wildlife viewing: The forest roads around Craigsville host abundant wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. The road to Sherwood Lake WV features "Around a dozen sites with Rick fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only," and offers opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species throughout the year.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campers consistently praise the scenic vistas throughout the national forest near Craigsville. At Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227, visitors appreciate the unique landscape. One camper described it as "sort of in a valley/basin kind of area. There used to be a lot of spruce tree farming here so I think that is why it is so cleared out. It doesn't seem to be an active logging zone now though, so it's just peaceful and quiet."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide good separation between campsites. A visitor to Mower Basin shared, "The sites are so spread out/the foliage is so thick that you can't see or hear anyone." This privacy factor makes backcountry camping near Craigsville ideal for those seeking solitude.
Night sky visibility: The remote nature of primitive camping spots provides exceptional stargazing. One camper at Mower Basin reported, "The moon was bright but you could still see hundreds of stars." The limited light pollution in the national forest creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads become challenging after rainfall. A visitor to Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area advises, "Wasn't too hard to get there and park in our van. Peaceful for the most part (a few campers were there). No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."
Cell service limitations: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal to no cellular coverage. A camper at Forest Road 227 reports, "I have t-mobile and got zero service. I wouldn't expect any carrier to get any service out there though." Plan communications accordingly and download maps before arrival.
Seasonal closures: Some roads close during winter or for maintenance. One camper noted about Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area, "Unfortunately the road is closed for upgrades until spring of 2024." Always check with the Forest Service office in Elkins (304-636-1800) for current conditions before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For family camping, select areas with clear boundaries and established facilities. At Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, "Army Camp is my favorite place to camp. 10 tent sites. 2 are handicap. Has always been quiet with good people camping while I was here. Area for people to swim in the river or fish."
Plan for bathroom facilities: Most primitive sites lack restroom facilities. Army Camp offers basic amenities as one camper notes: "Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Spots are shaded. Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite. Very clean pit toilet bathroom."
Consider water access: Families should plan for sufficient water supplies. A camper at Army Camp mentioned, "Pit toilets, but was nice to have something ++ FREE. Super cool river near by, great scenery." Despite riverside locations, always bring drinking water as stream filtration may be challenging with children.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. At the "Little dispersed site by railtracks" area, one camper advises, "You will want a car with decent clearance to get down here. I went in my Subaru Forester and was fine."
Length restrictions: Forest roads often have tight turns and limited space. For RVers exploring Mower Basin, one visitor shared their experience: "We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!" While some larger vehicles can access certain sites, scout ahead when possible.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain. At Army Camp, a camper driving a large vehicle noted, "We spent a night here on our way to Ohio. It has a small loop of campsites near the river. It is a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by."
