The Eglon area sits at approximately 2,300 feet elevation in the Allegheny Mountains region of West Virginia, receiving significant rainfall and snow throughout the year. This higher elevation creates cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lower regions, with overnight lows often dropping into the 50s even during summer months. Visitors should pack layers regardless of season as mountain weather patterns can shift rapidly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Swallow Falls State Park offers excellent fishing along the Youghiogheny River. "The falls are beautiful and the trails are well kept. My kids love the swings and playground also," notes one visitor who frequents the park.
Waterfall hiking trails: The region contains multiple waterfall hikes beyond just Blackwater Falls. "Beautiful camp site with access to numerous hiking trails. The Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet, is the highest falls in Maryland. Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River," shares a recent Swallow Falls camper.
Winter activities: The area transforms during winter months with cross-country skiing opportunities. "Canaan Valley Resort State Park is situated in a very popular outdoor activity area...for every season. Winter brings copious snowfall and the skiing here draws thousands...downhill and XC," explains a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park.
Paddling adventures: The rivers around Eglon offer paddling experiences for various skill levels. "The float took three hours, was relaxing, serene and full of solitude," writes a visitor about their Middle Yough float trip near Ohiopyle, just north of Eglon.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds near Eglon feature abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," writes a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, highlighting the natural encounters common in the area.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies make for excellent stargazing conditions. "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!" notes a camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, suggesting astronomical observation as an evening activity.
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas provide cooling options during summer months. "The lake is crystal clear," writes a camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park, while noting the swimming options close to camping areas.
Fall foliage: Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors typically peaking in early October. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises a Blackwater Falls visitor about the seasonal color display.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "Choose your site wisely! Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," cautions a camper at Blackwater Falls about proper site selection.
Bear precautions: Black bears are active throughout the region. "Bears are common so they emplaced a big old bear box at every site. It's enough room to hold your food for a month of camping!" explains a Deep Creek Lake visitor about the required food storage practices.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes quickly and often includes significant rainfall. "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months. I have mastered the fine art of campsite tarping due to West Virginia camping," advises a Canaan Valley Resort camper.
Seasonal timing: Each season offers different experiences but requires specific preparation. "We went in early May. When I made my reservations, I could only find a site for Friday night, so I went ahead and reserved it, but kept checking back," notes a visitor about booking strategies at popular campgrounds during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Ohiopyle State Park offers natural features specifically appealing to families. "Just outside town as you climb the hill, to the left is Sliding Rock. A natural water slide extends around 100 feet as it winds through the rock. Wear sturdy shorts and shirt," advises a visitor about this popular family attraction.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities for children. "There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play. My only complaint is the firewood available to purchase. It's a small bundle for the price," notes a Cooper's Rock visitor about the family amenities.
Level sites for tents: For tent camping families, site selection is crucial. "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons. First the campground is clean and made us feel like we were in a forest not just a campground. Secondly, the tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep," reports a Swallow Falls camper.
Bathroom proximity: With children, bathroom location becomes more important. "Our site was near the bathroom which was a plus with kids but did not have a lot of privacy. People were walking right through our site to get to the bathrooms, so weird!" shares a family camper about site selection considerations.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Five River Campground offers complete services for RVers. "I really love Five River Campground in Parsons, WV. The owners are amazing! This campground is paved up to the campground. It has 120 RV sites many with full hook-ups. It can accommodate tents to large rigs," notes an experienced RVer.
Site access challenges: Road layouts can present challenges for larger rigs. "The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer," advises a camper at Middle Ridge Campground.
Water pressure considerations: RVers should note water systems vary significantly. "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi. No issues with power or sewer," reports a Middle Ridge RVer about hookup quality.
Year-round availability: Unlike many mountain campgrounds, some sites near Eglon remain open throughout winter. "We camped in early October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there. Campground was in great shape, the RV lots were well maintained," notes a Cooper's Rock camper about off-season accessibility.
