Camping sites near Danese, West Virginia are scattered throughout the New River Gorge region, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet above sea level. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations even in summer months, with nighttime temperatures commonly dropping 20-30 degrees from daytime highs. Gravel access roads to many campgrounds become challenging after rainfall, particularly at Grandview Sandbar where flooding can occur during heavy precipitation.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Near Stone Cliff Campground, several trails connect directly to campsites. "There is a great trail nearby that runs along the river. Trash bins and restroom located nearby. No cell phone service," notes James A. The nearby Glade Creek Trail follows an old railroad bed with gentle terrain.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Arrowhead Bike Farm provides direct access to numerous bike trails. "Within a short walk/bike to multiple biking and hiking trailheads. Close enough to bike into Fayetteville (a cool little town). Onsite bike shop with rentals and repairs, restaurant, and bar," reports Charles C. The property also features a pump track for skills practice.
Waterfront activities: Fish, swim or paddle at several riverfront camping areas. At Grandview Sandbar, "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious. Car spots lack the view, but they're quiet. Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing," according to Van M.
What campers like
Peaceful riverside sites: Glade Creek Campground receives high marks for its waterfront location. "This area is our favorite we have been in all of the eastern states. There's two pit toilet restrooms on both sides of the campground and a full area by the water for walk in tent camping. Boat ramp for anyone wanting to kayak and a big beach area to play in the water," writes Aly E.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local fauna. At Stone Cliff Campground, "We stayed at #6. Had plenty of space and were far enough away to not hear our neighbors. It had a pit latrine bathroom which was better than what I expected for free! The campground is very close to the abandoned town of Thurmond," reports Kaylee F.
Uncrowded camping experience: Army Camp Campground provides seclusion without sacrificing convenience. "Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles. Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Spots are shaded. Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite," says Caroline F. The campground has only 11 sites that fill quickly.
What you should know
Cold weather preparedness: Even summer nights can be chilly at higher elevations. "It was incredibly private, we were the only ones staying overnight. There were some visitors throughout the days, hiking, fishing, and a lot of white water rafters. It was also veryyy cold in the mornings but that was due to going in spring," reports Gracey L. about Stone Cliff Campground.
Limited amenities: Most National Park campsites are primitive with no running water. "If you're planning on coming here, make sure and come early. Pit toilets also available," advises Rhys R. about Army Camp. Similarly at Glade Creek, "No sources of freshwater available @ the campground. The nearest convenient store is some miles away," warns Matt G.
Flood risk management: Sites near rivers can flood after heavy rainfall. "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood," cautions Chaz M. about Grandview Sandbar. During spring months, plan to camp on higher ground sites when available.
Tips for camping with families
Level sites for ease: Babcock State Park Campground offers family-friendly sites with more amenities. "Site was large with lots of trees. Site 21, which was the middle of a loop and it was spacious and flat. It had another site next to it but it was further apart than other sites. Hiking was great and my young children hiked all of it with us," recommends Kaley A.
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities. "From whitewater rafting to the waterpark to their 15+ different adventures, Ace Adventure Resort has it all. The tent campsite I stayed at was out in the open and had no privacy, but the bath house was clean," reports Sara C.
Weather adaptability: Pack for varying temperatures even in summer. "Site was large with lots of trees. The bath house was pretty nice and had three showers. The water had some issues while we were there (as in the sink was so hot it physically hurt to wash your hands) but seemed to be a fluke and was fixed by the time we left," notes Kaley A.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Little Beaver State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site," advises Adam and Suzanne B.
Road access limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted access for larger vehicles. "Chestnut Creek Campground is set up for tents, hammock campers and some car campers. No hook-ups. Definitely not for RVs or Camper trailers," warns Lisa K. Similarly at Rifrafters Campground, "It is very much built into a big hill- I was a little worried our Avion (similar to airstream) that had low clearance would bottom out as we came in and out of entrance hill to road but we had no issue."
Dump station locations: Plan sewage management accordingly. "Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump," notes Charlie W. about Little Beaver State Park. At Babcock State Park, "Electric back in site. Water and bathhouse available across the road in the other part of the camp ground. Unusual set up," adds Edison F.
Guide
