Best Campgrounds near Durbin, WV

Durbin, West Virginia serves as a gateway to numerous camping opportunities within the Monongahela National Forest, with options ranging from dispersed sites to established campgrounds. The area features several free dispersed camping areas including Mower Basin and Little River Dispersed Campsites, which accommodate both tent and RV camping with minimal amenities. East Fork Campground and Horse Stables provides a more developed experience with full hookups, while Seneca State Forest offers cabins and glamping options approximately 25 miles south. Most campgrounds in the region maintain proximity to rivers, particularly along the Greenbrier River, creating opportunities for fishing, paddling, and riverside relaxation.

Road conditions throughout the Monongahela National Forest vary significantly by season, with some dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Spring and early summer bring frequent rainfall that can affect trail and campsite accessibility. "We spent three days in June and experienced afternoon rain showers daily, but arranged our hikes and bikes around them," noted one visitor about camping in the region. Winter conditions at higher elevations often limit access to many sites, though some remain open year-round. Cell service is notably limited throughout the area, particularly at dispersed sites like Stonecoal and Gaudineer Knob. Most dispersed camping areas permit stays up to 14 days, while established campgrounds like East Fork operate seasonally from April through November with reservation options.

The riverside setting of many campgrounds near Durbin creates distinctive camping experiences. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere along waterways as a highlight. Several visitors noted the abundance of wildlife, with deer sightings common at dawn and dusk. The proximity to outdoor recreation stands out in visitor feedback, with East Fork Campground serving as "a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin." Dispersed sites in the national forest typically offer more solitude but fewer amenities, while established campgrounds provide facilities like showers and toilets. The region's elevation contributes to cooler temperatures even in summer months, with campers recommending packing layers for comfort. Nearby attractions include Spruce Knob (West Virginia's highest point), Seneca Rocks, and the Green Bank Observatory, all within reasonable driving distance from Durbin-area campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Durbin, West Virginia (142)

    1. Dispersed camping at Mower Basin

    8 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "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"

    "Very quiet, beautiful views, amazing drive from VA. Multiple campsites and they all have beautiful views. I have T-Mobile and had signal only by the first campsite for some reason."

    2. Seneca State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Dunmore, WV
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 799-6213

    "To get to the fire tower you will want to take the Loop Road, it is gravel and there are pot holes on the edges of the road so you will want to be careful of those."

    "There is much history and lore that is behind every fire tower.

    The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower was built by the CCC sometime around 1935...and is erected at an elevation of 3458 ft."

    3. East Fork Campground and Horse Stables

    6 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3101

    "We used it as a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin."

    "Very peaceful, surrounded by mountains. The campground had stables and catered to people with horses, but we felt very welcomed by the owners."

    4. Little River Dispersed Campsites

    6 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3335

    "About 7+ miles in from the town of Durbin on a dirt road (not sure how that would go in an RV but easy in a small vehicle). Beautiful dispersed camping near a creek in dense, lush forest."

    "Small trails led along the creek in either direction. Two white cross grave monument memorials could be seen from the creekside. "

    5. Island Campground

    6 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    7 miles
    Website

    "They only have 1 drive in campsite next to the creek but it was by far the nicest. Luckily we were the only people there and were able to grab it that day."

    "Good location next to stream and trail, Locust Springs right up the road."

    6. Monongahela National Forest Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "The camp site was on a small gravel road, tucked up in the forest, only 1 or 2 other campers, but the grounds man who delivered my firewood checked on my 1-2 times a day."

    7. Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area

    3 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    6 miles
    Website

    "Good access to water with the river. No mosquitos. Soft ground for staking a tent. Getting here long after dark isn’t an issue, because you can drive right into a campsite."

    "Stayed 9/5/2020 - FREE

    Site "Turnaround"

    This was difficult to find on Apple Maps, but if you pin the location, it takes you right to it.  "

    8. Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Whitmer, WV
    20 miles
    Website

    "Some you walk-in a short distance but are rewarded with amazing sites on the creek, secluded and wooded. Other places you can camp in your vehicle or park at the site."

    "Just camped there with two of my friends this past weekend, really cool site we were lucky enough to get a site next to the river! Get there early as it’s first come first serve!"

    9. Gaudineer Knob camp sites

    2 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3335

    "Like miles of moss and other than the trail that was it. No other trees either. Just Spruce?I think it was spruce but I'm not a treeologist."

    "Even if you choose to not camp here, it is at least worth it to walk the trail and see the overlook."

    10. Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower

    8 Reviews
    Circleville, WV
    17 miles

    "Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia and offers great views."

    "Spruce Knob is West Virginia's highest peak and on a clear day offers breathtaking 360 degree views from the Observation Tower.      https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recarea/?"

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Recent Reviews near Durbin, WV

672 Reviews of 142 Durbin Campgrounds



Guide to Durbin

Camping near Durbin, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Seneca Shadows. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking was fantastic. Can’t wait to go again in warmer weather so we can play in the river."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Brandywine Lake Campground. A camper shared, "The campground is near the lake for swimming and fishing."
  • Star Gazing: The dark skies at Spruce Knob Lake Campground make it perfect for star gazing. One reviewer said, "Great place for star gazing and disconnecting from reality."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Audra State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "This is one of the most clean state parks I’ve visited."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpful staff at Seneca Shadows. One reviewer mentioned, "The folks working were super friendly and willing to help."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers love the roomy sites at Holly River State Park Campground. A camper said, "The site we stayed in was in a great location."

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Watoga State Park Riverside Campground, have little to no cell service. One camper noted, "It's in a valley, so there's no cell service."
  • Primitive Camping Options: If you prefer a more rustic experience, check out Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping. A visitor shared, "Quiet location with clean sites along Gandy Creek."
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Spruce Knob Lake Campground, are only open during certain months. A camper mentioned, "In mid-April, the campground had plenty of space."

Tips for camping with families

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Audra State Park Campground. One family said, "The campground also offers a playground, flush toilets, and hot showers."
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds, such as Holly River State Park Campground, allow pets. A camper noted, "Plenty of options if you like a more tree-covered site or open site."
  • Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Brandywine Lake Campground, offer swimming and fishing. One visitor said, "The lake is low but still good for swimming or floating."

Tips from RVers

  • Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, including Watoga State Park Riverside Campground, provide electric hookups. A reviewer mentioned, "110/30 amp electric at site."
  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites, like Seneca Shadows. One camper said, "The parking pad was gravel but fairly level."
  • Dump Stations: Some campgrounds have dump stations available, which is helpful for RVers. A visitor at Holly River State Park Campground noted, "Sewer dump station available."

Camping near Durbin, West Virginia, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for you to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Durbin, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, Durbin, WV offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 campgrounds and RV parks near Durbin, WV and 23 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Durbin, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Durbin, WV is Dispersed camping at Mower Basin with a 5-star rating from 8 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Durbin, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 free dispersed camping spots near Durbin, WV.

What parks are near Durbin, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Durbin, WV that allow camping, notably Monongahela National Forest and George Washington & Jefferson National Forests.