Riverside campgrounds and RV parks near Elkins, West Virginia provide camping options throughout the mountainous terrain of Monongahela National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 1,000-5,000 feet, creating variable conditions across the seasons. Most campgrounds along the Shavers Fork and South Branch Potomac Rivers experience higher rainfall in spring and frequent evening showers during summer months, particularly in river valleys.
What to do
Fishing access: Brook Heights Riverfront Campground offers direct river access for trout and smallmouth bass fishing. "The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," notes camper Tiel M.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple hiking trails lead to cascades within 30 minutes of Holly River State Park Campground. "The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," explains Hannah V.
Stargazing opportunities: The Smoke Hole Canyon area provides exceptional dark sky viewing. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," writes Jean C. about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, noting the minimal light pollution in this remote location.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Camping along water is highly rated across the region. "We camped along the wood line during a very busy weekend and had shade almost the entire time," writes Wanda C. about her experience at Five River Campground.
Connectivity options: Unlike many remote camping areas, some campgrounds maintain reliable communications. "Ended up staying 2 weeks as the wifi service is the best we have had on the road," reports T N T about their extended stay at Five River Campground.
Proximity to trails: The location between multiple natural attractions draws many visitors. "Location is prime!! Loved the RV sites right on the water. Perfect if you are a trout fisherman or hiker. Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," shares Casey L. about Smoke Hole Caverns.
What you should know
Weather patterns: Rain is common throughout the region. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," reports Elaine L. about Holly River State Park.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate limited schedules. At Seneca Shadows, the camping season runs "April 2 to October 25," according to park information, with fall being the busiest period requiring advance reservations.
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly. "The privacy of each site varies, on the weekends it is very busy though. There are 88 campsites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire ring," notes Hannah V. about Holly River State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Children enjoy the river access at several campgrounds. "The river melody is loud enough to drown out most other distant noises. Our stay was peaceful and serene," writes Dave V. about Five River Campground, noting that "fishing on the river is popular (and successful) with a WV license."
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated recreation areas. "This campground has plenty to offer for the whole family... This is a perfect if you have children. There is a pool and other activities available," explains Missy S. about Holly River State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Plan for communication gaps. "There was no phone signal at all for Verizon service, so a nice place to disconnect," reports Cassia M. about Holly River, making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Terrain can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The sites are a little tight if you have a bigger camper. We have a R-Pod so the site was perfect for us," advises Cassia M. about Holly River State Park Campground.
Size restrictions: Not all rv parks near Elkins, West Virginia accommodate larger rigs. "There are a number of campgrounds in the Smoke Hole Canyon/Seneca Rocks area, but most of them are better suited to smaller rigs and tent campers," warns Jean C., noting that Smoke Hole Caverns specifically offers "large and level" sites.
Seasonal infrastructure: RV hookups vary by season. "RV sites with electric, sewer, and water hookups, operating from April through November," states Revelle's River Resort, providing "full hookups and accommodations" even for travelers in larger motorhomes according to Kevin C., who notes "this seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river."
