Camping options near Edmond, West Virginia range from basic primitive sites to fully equipped facilities with modern amenities. Located within the Appalachian Mountains at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, the region experiences cool nights even in summer, with temperatures often dropping into the 50s after sunset. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade at most campsites during the summer months, while fall brings vibrant foliage from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: Summersville Lake offers excellent opportunities for beginning paddlers to practice skills before attempting the nearby rivers. "The lake is amazing, clear and has so many visual gems that I highly suggest a visit," notes one visitor to Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Fishing excursions: New River access points provide opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, musky, and various other species. "Up front is a regular campground but we are in the back, secluded and peaceful. Site 34. There are about 8 nice sites out back with water and electricity," explains a camper at Rifrafters Campground.
Hiking trail networks: Explore well-maintained paths throughout the region's state and national parks. At Babcock State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "beautiful trails" and note that "my young children hiked all of it with us."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The attention to bathroom maintenance is frequently mentioned in reviews. "Bathrooms are nicer than our bathrooms at home. Friendly and helpful staff," reports a guest at The Outpost at New River Gorge.
Secluded wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer private camping areas away from crowds. At Rays Campground, a camper found "The site we had, site 10, was large and secluded. Clean shower house and hot water and the owners were extremely friendly."
Live entertainment options: Several campgrounds feature regular performances. "This place rocks! Live music on weekends throughout the summer included with your stay. Also, they have some ticketed events for live music," explains a visitor to The Outpost at New River Gorge.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter options. "We stayed in one of the cabins for Christmas. We were one of a handful of visitors staying at that time of year," notes a visitor to Adventures on the Gorge - Mill Creek.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region have uneven terrain. "Most sites are not level at all, there is one single bath house for each level making some sites very far from a bathroom/shower," explains a camper at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Flood risks at riverside locations: Low-elevation sites can experience rapid water rises after heavy rain. At Grandview Sandbar Campground, a visitor warns, "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with young children. "We took site 269 for the proximity to one of the little playgrounds and easy walk to bathrooms. We had a great time and it was easy to let our 3 year old play while we setup," suggests a family at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Lake activities provide all-day entertainment: Several campgrounds offer water recreation options. At Ace Adventure Resort, a visitor mentions, "My daughter and I had a fabulous stay here. The park has so much to do including trails, swimming, and an awesome water park."
Consider glamping near Edmond, West Virginia for easier family trips: Luxury tented accommodations provide comfort without the setup hassle. "First time here and we were not disappointed. The kids absolutely loved it all. The pool, views, food were all amazing," shares a family staying at Adventures on the Gorge.
Tips from RVers
Access roads can be challenging: Some campgrounds have difficult entry roads. A camper at Rifrafters Campground notes, "It is very much built into a big hill- I was a little worried our Avion (similar to airstream) that had low clearance would bottom out as we came in and out of entrance hill to road but we had no issue."
Limited hookup options: Many sites offer partial connections only. At Little Beaver State Park Campground, a reviewer mentions, "Sites have water and electric. Several nice walking trails directly from the campground."
Dump station locations vary in convenience: Check the location before arrival. "Only downside for longer term stays is no sewer hookup, but they do have a very convenient dump spot at entry," reports an RVer at Little Beaver State Park.