East Fork Campground and Horse Stables provides horseback riders direct access to trails through the Monongahela National Forest. The surrounding mountain terrain offers varied options from gentle valley paths to challenging routes at higher elevations. Dispersed camping options near the stables allow riders to experience longer journeys with natural creek access for horses, while designated areas ensure proper trailer parking and adequate space for larger rigs.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: The Gandy Creek area offers excellent fishing experiences along waterways throughout the Monongahela National Forest. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, campers find pristine fishing spots. "It's amazing and peaceful. Plus the fishing is wonderful," notes Kristoff M., who visited the area. Fishing permits are required and can be purchased at nearby stores in Durbin.
Hiking to waterfalls: Numerous trails lead to waterfalls within a 30-minute drive from Elkins. Camp Creek State Park features trails to two waterfalls, with short walks from designated parking areas. "There are a lot of nice picnic areas too. Two very nice waterfalls. The first waterfall is on a road right by the modern campground," explains Cynthia K., who explored the park.
Train excursions: The historic Durbin Rocket steam locomotive operates adjacent to East Fork Campground and Horse Stables, offering scenic railway excursions. "Nice campground Scenic railway at campgrounds edge. They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!" reports Harold C., who stayed at the campground during a special event.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites positioned directly along creeks and rivers. At Holly River State Park Campground, visitors enjoy the natural water features. "The Holly River runs clear through the Park, right beside a good many of the sites and hanging a hammock and listening to the water, can't be beat!" writes Suzy J., who frequently visits the park.
Dark sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions in the Monongahela National Forest. Many dispersed camping areas near Elkins fall within radio quiet zones with limited cell service and electronics restrictions. "Towering pines lined the sight, and provided a gorgeous backdrop for the stars and fireflies at night," notes Tommy S. about his experience at Gandy Creek.
Natural swimming areas: Creek and river access points provide cooling options during summer months. "Several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming," writes Sandra B. about the water features at Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping. Most swimming areas are unmarked and lack formal facilities, so appropriate footwear is recommended for rocky creek beds.
What you should know
Radio quiet zone restrictions: Parts of Pocahontas County operate under federal regulations that limit electronic devices. "Pocahontas County is home to the Green Bank National Radio Astronomy Observatory, a federal complex whose giant single-dish telescope detects 'invisible energy waves' from space. Within 10 miles of the Observatory, the use of cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwaves, and other devices is banned," explains Cindy B., who stayed at Revelle's River Resort.
Limited cell service: Even outside the official quiet zone, most camping areas have minimal or no cellular coverage. "There's minimal cell reception and by that I mean you'll be walking along and all the sudden your phone will start dinging because you hit a pocket where you get one bar of reception and the text messages pour in," reports Jennifer R. about Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping.
Slippery rock conditions: Creek access points can be hazardous after rainfall. "BEWARE it is extremely slippery. The brown algae makes it very slick and no shoe will handle it," warns Rachel L. about the water access at Camp Creek State Park. Sturdy water shoes with proper traction are recommended when exploring waterways in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several established campgrounds offer play areas for children. Camp Creek State Park Campground provides family-friendly facilities. "Nice sites they have; full hookups, water and electric, some just electric, and they also have boondocks sites near the waterfall. Bathrooms were good, store had basics, sites were decent size with a nice fire pit," reports Joe B., who visited with his family.
Water play opportunities: Creek-side camping provides natural entertainment for children. "We had a little trail down to the waters edge and sat on giant boulders to eat our meals," shares Kelly G. about camping along the river at Yokums Vacationland. Parents should supervise creek exploration as water levels can change rapidly after rainfall.
Supply planning: Limited shopping options near most campgrounds require advance meal planning. "The town is closed down, so make sure you bring everything you need to eat and drink," advises Richard about the area around East Fork Campground. Most campgrounds are 30-45 minutes from grocery stores, so packing extra supplies is recommended.
Tips for RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds involve narrow, winding routes with gravel sections. "Access is by about 6 miles of dirt/rock road," notes Kenneth K. about Kumbrabow State Forest. RVers should research route conditions before departure, as some forest roads have weight and length restrictions that change seasonally.
Site selection considerations: Campgrounds often have limited options for larger rigs. "Very nice campground some spots a little tight for bigger camper we have a 30' but we were okay," shares Brett W. about Holly River State Park Campground. Reservation systems typically allow filtering by RV length, and calling ahead is recommended for sites that can accommodate larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at state forest campgrounds, while private options offer more amenities. The sites at Revelle's River Resort include comprehensive services. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. The camp store was nice with everything you need, and the staff and owners were friendly as well," reports Kevin C. after staying at the resort.
