Tent camping near Dunbar, West Virginia offers access to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, where elevations range from 1,400 feet along the river to 2,000 feet at the canyon rim. The climate features warm summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and cool spring and fall nights that can drop below 50°F. During peak season from May through September, many sites fill by Friday morning, especially at riverside locations.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: At Stone Cliff Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, campers can access hiking directly from their sites. "There's a great trail nearby that runs along the river," notes James A. The Stone Cliff area connects to the wider park trail system with minimal driving required.
Fishing opportunities: Plum Orchard Lake WMA provides excellent fishing access with boat launch facilities. "Great place for kayaking on a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains of Fayette county," shares Zondra V. Many fishermen visit throughout the day and evening, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Visit abandoned mining towns: The Brooklyn Campground offers proximity to historic sites. "South side junction trail is right there and leads to Thurmond, an almost abandoned coal mining town," writes Aspen H. This trail provides a glimpse into the area's industrial past without needing to drive.
What campers like
Natural site separation: At Chestnut Creek Campground, the wooded setting creates privacy between sites. "Most sites are simple with just a picnic table and fire pit. There are lots of trees in between many of the sites for great privacy," explains Debra W. The natural terrain helps create individual camping spaces.
Primitive camping with facilities: Campers appreciate access to basic amenities while maintaining a wilderness feel. "This is a very nice little campground set up for tents, hammock campers and some car campers. No hook-ups. Definitely not for RVs or Camper trailers," says Lisa K. about Chestnut Creek Campground.
Riverside camping options: Several campgrounds offer direct river access. "I used one of the walk in sites about half a mile into the trail. There was plenty of room for 4 tents right along the river," reports Dillon about his stay at Stone Cliff Campground.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks run near several riverside campgrounds. "Note for light sleepers: there is an active railroad across the river and there were probably 5-10 trains the Wednesday night that we stayed," warns Brittany S. about Brooklyn Campground.
Seasonal bathroom availability: Facilities vary significantly by season at many campgrounds. "Even though the showers are closed and the host isn't on sight in the winter, you can still stay here on the honor system," notes Eric K. about New River Gorge Campground.
Limited cell service: Many camping areas have spotty reception. The exception is Chestnut Creek, where a camper noted, "Cell reception was great all throughout this area. That's not a camping necessity for us, but we all noticed that everyone's phone had great reception with a variety of network providers."
Tips for camping with families
Check site accessibility: Some campgrounds have difficult terrain for children. "So we had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site," Zac R. mentions about Stone Cliff. "We merely stared from afar as we drove to a different campsite."
Kid-friendly activities: Plum Orchard Lake WMA offers swimming and wildlife viewing opportunities. "The lake is good for swimming but you're welcome to bring your boat, kayak or canoe too. We were able to see deer, raccoons and some nice looking birds," reports Elaine L.
Consider private campgrounds: Family-operated sites often provide more amenities for children. "This place is run by the family that lives there and has been my go to spot for stays at the New. Great launching pad for river activities and climbing," says Katie M. about Chestnut Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "Long, bumpy dirt road to reach the campsite—it could be fun in the right vehicle," Patrick W. warns about Plum Orchard Lake WMA. "Luckily we had an axe, we had to chop a tree that fell overnight blocking the road out of the campsite."
Limited RV facilities: Most campgrounds near Dunbar cater primarily to tent campers. New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club has "wooden tent platforms (10'x10') to set up on, which is a huge plus since the ground is so uneven throughout," explains Mollie R., making it unsuitable for RVs.
Alternative parking options: Some sites require walking from parking areas. "The 4 sites by the river have a parking lot and you walk (not very far at all, 10 - 50 yards) to them," explains Cody T. about Brooklyn Campground, which can be inconvenient for those with large vehicles or lots of gear.
