Glamping close to Upper Tract, West Virginia offers visitors unique accommodations in a region with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 4,800 feet at Spruce Knob. The Monongahela National Forest surrounds much of the area, creating a landscape of dense spruce forests and river valleys. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing with significant snowfall at higher elevations, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F.
What to do
Hike to observation points: Spruce Knob Observation Tower sits at 4,863 feet above sea level, providing panoramic views across the region. "Beautiful spot to really get to see what you can't see down low, if you visit in the fall bring long sleeves because it is windy and quite a few degrees cooler then down below," notes a visitor to Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower.
Explore nearby waterfalls: Several waterfalls are accessible within 30-45 minutes of most glamping sites. "There are waterfalls in many areas around Canaan. Blackwater falls, Douglas falls, Elakala falls is the 4 falls of Shays Run, Falls of Seneca, Red falls, the list goes on. Our favorite was Elakala, a great hike down blackwater canyon and view of some beautiful falls," shares a camper from Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Visit local towns: The small towns surrounding Upper Tract offer unique shopping and dining experiences. "Go into the town of Davis and there is a local brewery and some great food. Sirianni's has the best pizza, pasta and salads you will ever find. Highland market has local raised foods," suggests a Canaan Valley camper.
What campers like
Dark night skies: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "The sky was brilliant on clear nights," mentions a visitor to Five River Campground. Another camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground adds: "This campground was amazing! The shower and bathrooms were spotless. Some sites were closer together than others but we didn't mind since we just had a tent. There were trails to walk pets. The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!"
Wildlife encounters: Regular deer sightings occur at many campgrounds. A camper at Five River Campground shares: "Our site was a tent site with lots of shade and not too close to others. Lots of deer walking through and room to hang hammocks and chill out." Canaan Valley visitors frequently report seeing deer throughout the grounds.
Riverside camping: Several glamping options near Upper Tract offer sites directly along rivers. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river and the seasonal campers spread out around," notes a visitor to Revelle's River Resort.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain elevations create significant temperature differences. A camper at Yokums Vacationland and Princess Snowbirds Indian Village notes: "I have camped there just about every month of the year. Be forwarded this entire area has no cell service due to the Green radio telescopes."
Flood potential: Some riverside camping areas may experience sudden water level changes. "I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising. I was so scared I went and slept in my car somewhere else. Later I learned this area is prone to flooding," warns a visitor to Yokums.
Limited cell service: Many glamping locations have poor or no cellular coverage. "Cell signal and camp wifi are bad. I was just able to get a decent signal with Starlink by carefully pointing at a small gap between trees," reports a camper at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Outdoor activities beyond hiking: Several campgrounds offer additional recreation options. "There is a huge field that the kids enjoyed kite flying! The staff at the store/check in are very friendly and helpful with area attractions! There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore!" shares a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort.
Playground access: Some glamping sites include play areas for children. "Older playground, but good enough for kiddos. Mini golf course, rock wall, and civil war reenactments when we came," notes a Canaan Valley camper.
Swimming opportunities: Natural swimming holes provide cooling options during summer months. "They have an honest to goodness swimming hole! If you are looking for the newest, biggest, and most attractions, then this is not the place," reports a visitor to Rivers Edge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Check specific amenities before booking. "Bathrooms were OK. There are deer everywhere!" notes a Canaan Valley visitor, while a Harrisonburg KOA camper shares: "Laundry room, bathrooms, and shower are well maintained and clean."
Hookup positioning: Consider site layout when selecting an RV spot. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side. The dump station is in a weird spot and the only water available is the same used for flushing," cautions a Blackwater Falls visitor.
Limited sites for larger rigs: Many glamping areas near Upper Tract accommodate smaller RVs better. "Yokum's Store to get my camping permit (make sure you arrive during business hours) and drove to the Lower Campgrounds by the river. I couldn't figure out why I was the only one picking a choice spot by the river," shares a Yokums visitor.
