Danese sits at the edge of the New River Gorge region in West Virginia, where elevations range from 1,400 to 2,500 feet throughout the surrounding mountains. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day, dropping into the 50s at night, creating wide temperature swings campers must prepare for. Rainfall is common year-round with heaviest precipitation in July, making waterproof gear essential even during summer camping trips.
What to do
Hiking historic trails: The trails at Babcock State Park Campground provide various difficulty levels with over 20 miles to explore. "There is plenty of gravel parking pad for large RV/Campers at all the sites and are angled for trailer back-in. Tent pads are not define and grassy (or a muddy mix depending on weather and usage)," notes Dave V., who recommends exploring the CCC-built stone structures throughout the park.
Water recreation on Boley Lake: Located in the higher elevation of Babcock State Park, this 19-acre lake offers fishing and paddle sports. "Boley Lake, a short drive up the mountain is picturesque and well-stoked with fish. You can paddle the 19 acre lake with personal paddle craft or rent paddleboats, canoes or rowboats from the Boley Lake Marina," according to a reviewer.
Mountain biking access: Arrowhead Bike Farm provides direct trail access for riders of all levels. A visitor explains, "Great campground adjacent to New River Gorge National Park. 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."
What campers like
Riverfront camping: The New River provides excellent backdrop for camping at Grandview Sandbar Campground where free sites are available first-come, first-served. According to James A., it offers "Beautiful isolated campsite. Sites are first come first served, no reservation needed. Plenty of parking with 6+ isolated camp sites, all with view of river. There is a great trail nearby that runs along the river."
Free camping options: Several campgrounds within the New River Gorge National Park offer no-cost camping. At Army Camp, campers appreciate the amenities despite the price. As one camper notes, "FCFS. 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."
Budget-friendly tent sites: For campers seeking basic accommodations at reasonable prices, tent sites provide affordable options. At Chestnut Creek Campground, a reviewer mentions: "This campground was perfect for what we needed for a 2 night stay. It was 15 dollars per person per night. They have showers and clean bathrooms just a short walk from any site."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations between day and night can be significant in the mountains. A visitor to Stone Cliff Campground notes: "It was also veryyy cold in the mornings but that was due to going in spring. I can't see it being a problem during the summer."
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds have steep or narrow access roads requiring careful navigation. A camper at Grandview Sandbar warns: "So we had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site. My wife and I had brought our hatchback instead of our SUV- so our fault, but if this had been mentioned somewhere then we would have known."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: While many sites offer basic facilities, visitors should prepare for limited services. A reviewer at Army Camp explains: "Pit toilets, but was nice to have something ++ FREE. Super cool river near by, great scenery."
Tips for camping with families
Find shaded sites for summer: When camping with children during warm months, shade makes a significant difference. At Little Beaver State Park Campground, a visitor found: "I enjoyed this campground. A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade. Lots of lovely trails to explore."
Look for campgrounds with recreation: Children need activities to stay engaged. At Ace Adventure Resort, campers appreciate the variety: "We truly enjoyed our stay at this park. The campground is very clean and the staff were very helpful. A very nice activity area for kids sat along the inner portion of the main loop."
Consider cabin options for unpredictable weather: For families wanting more weather protection, cabins provide a comfortable alternative to tents. One visitor to Babcock State Park notes: "It was on a loop with 5 other cabins, but well spaced and situated overlooking the forest. It was quiet and beautiful. Our cabin was pet friendly, clean, well stocked kitchen, COMFORTABLE DOUBLE BEDS, firewood, it was excellent."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites in the mountainous terrain require careful leveling. At Rifrafters Campground, a visitor commented: "The site (19) was roomy and level. The owners were friendly. The playground was great for our daughters to burn off some energy. We would stay here again, especially for a weekend to see the area."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Danese: RVers traveling with pets find several accommodating options. A reviewer at Little Beaver State Park notes: "Great little campground. Clean and well kept. Most of the sites are wooded and would be a bit difficult for a rig our size but they are very nice. The bathhouse is very clean with great water pressure and hot water."
Water access considerations: Many RV campgrounds offer partial hookups. At Babcock State Park, a visitor explains: "Electric back in site. Water and bathhouse available across the road in the other part of the camp ground. Unusual set up."
Legend
