Monongahela National Forest encompasses over 919,000 acres in eastern West Virginia, with Elkins positioned at approximately 2,000 feet elevation along its western edge. Camping spots near Elkins, West Virginia provide access to extensive limestone cave systems, high-elevation spruce forests, and multiple watershed headwaters. Summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas, making it a popular destination during hot months.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds along Shavers Fork of the Cheat River offer direct fishing opportunities. At Five River Campground, "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish" according to one visitor, who noted the convenient riverside location.
Hiking to unique geological formations: The region features distinctive sandstone and limestone formations. Near Bear Heaven Campground, "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders." This area connects to several mountain biking trails.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfalls dot the region's river systems. A camper at Blackwater Falls State Park noted, "We really enjoyed the falls & were able to take a couple of hikes. Wonderful views from the lodge & one of Pendleton Falls from the road. The Falls of Elakala is a short walk from the lodge."
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close during winter, some areas remain accessible for day use. According to one winter camper at Lower Glady, "I drove in during a small snow storm, it was in the single digits for temp, and I woke up with about 8 inches on the ground."
What campers like
Established fire pits and rings: Fire rings at many dispersed camping sites are well-maintained. At Lower Glady Dispersed Campground, "The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large."
Riverside camping options: Many campers seek sites directly on rivers. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, "We lucked out with a very spacious site right at the creek's edge. Towering pines lined the sight, and provided a gorgeous backdrop for the stars and fireflies at night."
Swimming access: Natural swimming areas are popular in summer months. As noted by a camper at Gandy Creek, "Several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming," providing natural cooling options during hot days.
Accessibility to small towns: The proximity to small towns adds convenience without sacrificing wilderness feel. A camper at Five River Campground appreciated that "Grocery store, gas station and a family dollar all within a 5 min drive or walk."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. At Seneca Shadows, a visitor noted "So many windy (but safe) country road as we entered the campgrounds," which can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Reservations systems differ by location: While some campgrounds offer reservations, others operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Audra State Park, "No reservations, first come, first served" is the rule, so plan accordingly, especially for weekend visits.
Seasonal closures affect most campgrounds: The majority of campgrounds operate from April through October. A camper at Blackwater Falls explained, "This is a very oddly laid out campground... The handicapped sites are in the first loop by the bathroom. There's a dump that's in the middle of the first loop. You have to go the wrong way on a one way road to dump."
Weekend crowding is common: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Lower Glady, one frustrated camper reported, "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer."
Tips for camping with families
Day-use areas supplement campground activities: Many parks offer additional facilities beyond camping areas. At Audra State Park Campground, "Across the road is a day use area for swimming and tubing - bring your own or rent one. The camp has a decent bath house and playground."
Short hiking trails for children: Kid-friendly trails exist throughout the region. At Stuart Recreation Area, "The 1.5 mile loop trail was great and just challenging enough to be fun. The campground and trail are filled with beautiful mountain laurel."
Creek exploration opportunities: Shallow streams provide natural play areas. At Five River Campground, one family noted, "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it."
Evening wildlife viewing: Wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. According to one visitor, "The tent areas were not very private and wasn't exactly what we were looking for but had a very nice view of Seneca Rocks," making wildlife viewing accessible even from campsites.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Only select campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Stuart NF Campground, "RV/Camper sites have power and water. Tent sites do not. In fact, tent sites might be considered primitive, possessing no picnic table."
Narrow access roads: Many campgrounds have restricted access. One RVer advised at Five River, "We utilized one of the rv sites with 50 amp service and full hookups. The rv sites are very close together but in the week that we stayed we never heard any noise other than our own children."
Consider site orientation: Some campgrounds have unusual layouts. At Blackwater Falls, "You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side! A lot of sites on this loops are like that."
