RV parks near Davis, West Virginia provide access to high-elevation mountain terrain ranging from 2,500 to 4,800 feet in the Monongahela National Forest region. Winter camping options become limited after October when many sites close for the season. Cell service varies dramatically throughout mountain valleys, with connectivity generally better at lower elevations closer to towns.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Five River Campground offers direct river access for anglers. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," notes camper T N T. Most fishing spots are within walking distance of campsites.
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," mentions Jean C. about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, which provides unobstructed views of constellations.
River recreation: Many campgrounds offer water access for tubing, paddling, and swimming. "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property," shares Jamie R. about Five River Campground. The Shavers Fork river provides gentle currents suitable for beginners.
Hiking trail access: Multiple trailheads within 30 minutes of most campgrounds provide day hiking options. "Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," notes Casey L., highlighting the convenient access to popular trails from Smoke Hole Caverns.
What campers like
Riverfront camping: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground offers primitive sites directly on the water. "On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," describes Tiel M., noting the added amenities that enhance water access.
Good cell service: Unlike many mountain destinations, Five River Campground maintains reliable connectivity. "The wifi service is the best we have had on the road," reports T N T., while another camper notes, "It is one of the only campgrounds in all of WV where you have cell service...and wifi!"
Helpful campground hosts: Many RV parks near Davis feature attentive owners who assist with campsite selection and setup. "John always made time to stop by and ask us if we needed anything," shares Wanda C. about Five River Campground, while another reviewer mentions owners who are "super attentive, and personal."
Natural camping areas: Rather than manufactured tent pads, many sites preserve the natural environment. "It has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad. I love how open and natural it feels," explains Tiel M. about Brooklyn Heights Riverfront.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several RV parks operate only during warmer months. Seneca Shadows runs from "April 2 to October 25," according to their listing, while Bumble Bee RV Park operates from "May 1 to Oct 31."
Limited privacy at some locations: Site layouts vary significantly between campgrounds. "Site are large and level, but close to one another and open," notes Jean C. about Smoke Hole Caverns, while another camper mentions, "The tent areas were not very private."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer full facilities while others provide minimal options. "Clean bathhouses with endless hot water, laundry, cable and wifi," reports Jamie R., while Brooklyn Heights offers "clean porta johns" according to Tina D.
Mountain access considerations: Driving to some campgrounds requires navigating mountain roads. "About a 2:45 hour drive from Pittsburgh, PA the drive in on a Friday late afternoon helped decompress the pain and heaviness of our current world. So many windy (but safe) country road as we entered the campgrounds," reports Kerrie K.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly river access: Just Plane Adventures and other sites offer shallow water areas safe for children. "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it," shares Jamie R.
Local parks supplement campground play areas: "There's a wonderful park nearby that has a walking/biking trail, splash pad, and a large playground," notes Jamie R., describing off-site recreational options within driving distance of several RV parks in Davis, West Virginia.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Level terrain at some locations makes cycling practical for kids. "It is a pretty level area so riding bicycles around the campground and even into town are doable," mentions Erica M. about Five River Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "Chipmunks everywhere you look and incredible sunrise birdsong," reports Erica H. about Seneca Shadows, noting the natural encounters that engage children without requiring special equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling expectations: Most RV parks provide reasonably level sites, but preparation helps. "The electric, sewer, and water hookups work well, and the RV sites are fairly level," notes one camper, while another mentions, "The majority of the site is level and grass."
Big rig accommodation: Riverside Cabins and RV Park and several other campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "There are a number of campgrounds in the Smoke Hole Canyon/Seneca Rocks area, but most of them are better suited to smaller rigs and tent campers. If you have a class A or are looking for something with full hookups, look no further," advises Jean C.
Supply access: Nearby towns provide essential services for restocking. "Within five minutes a local grocery store," notes Janet C., while another camper mentions, "Grocery store, gas station and a family dollar all within a 5 min drive or walk" from Five River Campground.
Winter RV considerations: Year-round RV parks like Riverside Cabins and RV Park remain open through winter, but require appropriate preparation for freezing temperatures and potential mountain road closures during heavy snow.
