Dispersed camping near Elkins, West Virginia occurs predominantly at elevations between 2,000-4,500 feet with a significantly wetter climate than surrounding regions. The Monongahela National Forest receives approximately 55-60 inches of annual precipitation, creating challenging conditions on unpaved roads during spring and fall. Weather patterns can change rapidly with temperature variations of 20-30 degrees in a single day during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Little River Dispersed Campsites, campers can access the Span Oak trail directly from the camping area. "We hiked the Span Oak trail, at the beginning of the camping area, which led us along a beautiful ridge," reports one visitor.
Fishing in creek-side sites: Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping provides excellent fishing opportunities from your campsite. As one camper notes, "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek... The only others we saw from our campsite were people fishing downstream from our camp and they were respectful of our space."
Mountain biking trails: The terrain around Mower Basin offers designated single-track paths. A reviewer mentions, "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."
Swimming in natural pools: During summer months, creek depths vary with deeper sections suitable for swimming. "Several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming," notes one Gandy Creek camper.
What campers like
Diverse terrain: The varied landscapes within a small area create unique camping experiences. At Dolly Sods Backcountry, "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana."
Secluded campsites: Many sites offer privacy from neighboring campers. "Very nice area several nice spot right along the creek. Areas are spread out and private. Nice spot to relax and escape along creek," explains a Gandy Creek visitor.
Natural soundscapes: The forest and water features create peaceful ambient conditions. One camper at Gaudineer Knob camp sites describes an unusual acoustic experience: "The forest floor is only moss. 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. That combination created the world's most quiet environment ever. You wouldn't hear a marching band if they were feet behind you."
Night sky viewing: Light pollution is minimal throughout the region. One visitor notes, "Towering pines lined the sight, and provided a gorgeous backdrop for the stars and fireflies at night."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Spring rainfall affects accessibility to many sites. A Little River camper warns, "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)."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. One camper at Little River advises, "We were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict! But, it was very very close to the site we had our tent! We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe."
Weekend competition: Sites fill quickly on summer weekends. A visitor to Lower Glady Dispersed Campground cautions, "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."
Map requirements: Trail systems often lack clear markings. For Dolly Sods Backcountry, a camper notes, "Be advised, a good physical map and compass, the skills needed to use them, are vital here. There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for creek-adjacent spots with natural barriers between camping areas. "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek... Will be back to this area to explore and stay at other campsites!"
Footwear considerations: Pack multiple pairs for changing conditions. A Dolly Sods visitor recommends, "If you are unfamiliar with Dolly Sods Wilderness trails...choose footwear that either dries fast or is waterproof...has a robust sole to fend off bruises from the brutal amount of sharp, ankle buster rocks on the trail...and won't pull off and be lost in the countless bogs and areas of shoe sucking mud."
Winter camping preparation: Significant temperature drops occur at higher elevations. "I camped here in winter and just pulled into the first designated spot. There was snow but the fire pit was easy to dig out. Very quiet in late December and the sound of the creek was really peaceful," reports a Gandy Creek camper.
Hidden features: Many sites contain unexpected natural attractions worth exploring. One visitor describes, "Our site, though, had a hidden waterfall across the creek. If you listen, you can hear the loud falls over the normal creek sounds. I noticed it as I was collecting firewood on the opposite shore, and felt some water about 20 degrees cooler than the creek joining from the mountains."
