Camping near Dunmore, West Virginia offers extensive access to the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,200 to over 3,500 feet. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach the mid-70s with nighttime lows in the 50s. Fall temperatures drop significantly, with October highs averaging 60°F and lows near freezing, while winter camping requires specialized cold-weather gear for temperatures that frequently dip below 20°F.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at Seneca Lake: The 3-acre lake at Seneca State Forest allows paddling and fishing. "The campground had stables and catered to people with horses, but we felt very welcomed by the owners. This campground in Durbin was great for exploring the north end of the Greenbrier River Trail, The West Fork Rail Trail, and other sites in the Monongahela National Forest," notes Cindy B.
Observe wildlife: Mower Basin offers prime wildlife viewing. "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing," reports Mike C. about his stay at Site 4 in Seneca State Forest.
Hiking network: The Dispersed camping at Mower Basin area features extensive hiking options. "It's easy to find, the roads are gravel and maintained enough for just about any vehicle to get back there, the views are truly incredible with great star gazing opportunities, and MOST IMPORTANTLY it is absolutely littered with marked hiking trails," writes Mystic S.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: The spacing between campsites at Seven Mile Campground receives high marks. Dave V. notes, "Ten sites in all. Spaced out nicely, with 9 and 10 dog legged to the right from the covered well handpump. We stayed at site 9, which had a nice gravel pull through."
Free dispersed options: Campers appreciate the no-cost camping at Mower Basin. Jon N. reports, "I took the road all the way to the end passing other sites, some taken and some open. The moon was bright but you could still see hundreds of stars. There was a fire ring and enough space to fit a car and tent, but other sites were large enough to fit many cars and a dozen people."
Pioneer cabin experience: The rustic cabins in Seneca State Forest provide a unique camping option. "We stayed in a cabin this time. One of the pioneer cabins. Let me say it was awesome, wood stove, gas light, outhouse and had to get your own water. The cabin was well put together and the staff has you set up to enjoy your stay with everything from soap to cut wood," shares David F.
What you should know
Prepare for no services: The remote location means limited or no cell service. "There is no cell service within 30 miles, so for an outsider who doesn't know the area, it was difficult to find the campsite. You also better bring everything you need beforehand. There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite," warns Evan G. about Seneca State Forest.
Road conditions vary: Access to some camping areas requires careful driving. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, Clayton S. notes, "If you follow the road further, about a quarter of a mile, is another spot for about two or three vehicles. On the map, Hidden Valley Rd says it goes through, but the road is closed."
Seasonal differences: Most campgrounds operate from spring to late fall. "I'm sure this is an amazing campsite, but it was a little to rustic for my liking. The firewood is unbundled and there are no showers. We ended up not staying here because we were not prepared," explains Evan G. about winter conditions.
Temperature swings: Be prepared for significant day-to-night temperature changes. Mike C. reported summer temperatures at Seneca State Forest as "Average Daily Temp: 89, Average Nightly Temp: 78" during his July stay.
Tips for camping with families
Sheltered options for inclement weather: The Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 offers protective structures. Dave V. notes, "Newer Adirondock Style Shelter, Newer Large/Clean/Stocked Pit Latrine, Raised Tent pad (pea gravel), Cold well water - Hand pump, Metal Fire Ring."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy animal sightings from safe distances. "The MP 69.6 Camping Area is along the Greenbrier River, so camping along it affords great wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk when the animals head to the water to drink," shares Dave V.
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation. Harold C. mentions at East Fork Campground and Horse Stables, "Called and got a reservation Aug 1-12th had a slight problem. We called to say we couldn't make it until the 2nd no problem and no charge, that was nice if him to do so. Nice well kept campground adjacent to the Durbin Rocket steam locomotive."
Kid-friendly activities: Unique local attractions keep children entertained. "They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!" adds Harold C. about the East Fork Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most dispersed sites are primitive with few amenities. For RVers seeking hookups, Casey L. recommends East Fork Campground: "We were just traveling through on our way south and called to see if we could stay for a night. The campground was being shut down for the season but the owners accommodated us anyway! They let us fill water near their home which is on site and had a full hook up available for us."
Road clearance considerations: Some access roads require higher clearance vehicles. Jon N. advised about Mower Basin, "I also love this place as it has a small network of single track trails for anyone with a bike, or in my case, Electric unicycle. The trails were well maintained and offered a wonderful variety of wooded and open space riding."
Winter camping feasibility: RV camping becomes challenging in winter months. Jadon B. shared their experience at Mower Basin: "We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!" This suggests winter camping is possible but requires preparation and appropriate vehicles.
