Daniels, West Virginia sits at an elevation of 2,500 feet, offering cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The area features several free primitive camping options within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as alternatives to developed RV parks. Most camping facilities close between mid-October and May due to mountainous weather conditions that can include heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Army Camp Campground, trails lead directly to the New River shoreline. "There is a trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet," notes Billy C., while another visitor mentions that "There's an accessible site and also accessible trail to a bench along the river."
Fishing opportunities: The New River provides excellent fishing access at Stone Cliff Campground. "There were some visitors throughout the days, hiking, fishing, and a lot of white water rafters," reports Gracey L. The National Park Service website offers specific information about "species, bait, and lures" for anglers visiting the gorge.
Biking routes: Paved roads at Meador Campground create safe riding areas for children. "All the roads are paved making it easy for the little ones to ride bikes," writes Michael. Another camper notes that "The park is awesome with beautiful views and many roads to bike on. Also significant trails."
What campers like
Free camping sites: The New River Gorge area offers several no-cost camping options. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free!" explains Rachel S. about Army Camp Campground. Another visitor adds, "Hard to beat a free campsite right on the river."
River access: Many campsites provide direct water access. "We were lucky and got one of the last spots, there's only 11. Fire rings with grill, and bench at each site... Very nice spot, right by the river with plenty of spaces to hammock down by there," writes Rhys R. Stone Cliff Campground features "sites are first come first served, no reservation needed. Plenty of parking with 6+ isolated camp sites, all with view of river."
Natural seclusion: Stone Cliff Beach offers remarkable privacy between sites. "It was incredibly private, we were the only ones staying overnight," writes one reviewer. "We stayed at site 7 which was definitely the most private, the only downside being people walking on the trail walk right by your camp, but it wasn't a very big deal."
What you should know
First-come camping fills quickly: Most primitive sites near Daniels have no reservation system. "We were lucky and got one of the last spots," mentions one camper at Army Camp. Another advises, "If you're planning on coming here, make sure and come early."
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity varies widely across campgrounds. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," reports Tucker B. Similarly, another camper notes that Stone Cliff has "No cell phone service," while at Glade Creek, "there is not much AT&T cell service; however, the park rangers drove through the area about twice a night."
Access road challenges: Glade Creek Campground requires navigating narrow roads. "The Glade Creek Road to the campground is not too bad but there is a narrow one-lane bridge you must cross," warns a reviewer. For Stone Cliff, one visitor cautions: "We had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Bluestone Lake at Meador Campground provides safe swimming for children. "There is an outdoor pool within walking distance of campground but the playgrounds need upgraded. Lots of space to run around for the kids. It rained one day we were there and we took a quick drive to Pipestem and swam in the heated, indoor pool that is included in camping fee," explains Jeremiah S.
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy observing local wildlife at established campgrounds. "There were TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay," writes Jay N. about Meador Campground. At Glade Creek, "Song birds, robins and crows competed vocally during daylight hours. Interesting insects crawled the river's sandy shore and a brightly colored Eastern box turtle searched for higher-dryer ground."
Food storage requirements: Secure food from wildlife, especially at night. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must," advises a camper at Pipestem RV Park. Another visitor at Glade Creek mentions seeing "the largest spider I've ever seen in the hollow of one of the trees at the campsite."
Tips from RVers
Single-lane access concerns: RV parks near Daniels often require careful navigation on narrow roads. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in," notes Corda B. At Hilltop Sunrise, a visitor recommends: "Great for Vanlifers and RVers looking for an overnight stay with all the necessities!"
Sloped site positioning: Pipestem RV Park & Campground accommodates larger RVs despite terrain challenges. "We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking," reports Molly F. Meanwhile, at Hilltop Sunrise, one visitor confirms the site was "level" and mentions the convenient location being "right in the middle of our adventures."
Campground upgrades: Recent improvements at rv parks near Daniels, West Virginia have expanded utility options. "There has been a lot of nice upgrades to the grounds and facilities as well as things to do at pipestem since my last review a few years ago. First off, now all the sites have electric and water, whereas before about half the campground had elec. and water and the rest were rustic."
