Best Tent Camping near Elkins, WV
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Best Tent Sites Near Elkins, WV (21)
1. Bear Heaven Campground
Bowden, West Virginia6 Reviews•6 Photos•143 SavesA small primitive campground located approximately 14 miles northeast of Elkins, West Virginia, on Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) near the Otter Creek Wilderness. 8 available sites are nestled along rock outcroppings that offer unique landscapes. There is stream fishing and hiking located nearby. Middle Point Trail #140,__3.7 miles in length is located along Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) west of the Campground. The Otter Creek Wilderness offers several trails and__more challenging experiences just next door.
- Tents
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
2. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
Davis, West Virginia8 Reviews•44 Photos•199 SavesRecreation areas with activity Dispersed Camping: There are at least 7 dispersed camp sites Along Canaan Loop Road.
Camping Tips Bring drinking water; otherwise, treat water from streams and springs before drinking to kill harmful pathogens. Vigorously boil local water for at least three minutes, or use a filter which is specifically labeled for removal of Giardia. Chemical treatments (iodine and chlorine) are not considered effective. Freezing temperatures and snow can occur anytime of the year, but mainly between October and April. Dress for the weather. Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not build a camp within 200 feet of streams. Light weight camping stoves are encouraged. If using firewood it must be dead AND down branches only. Keep fires small. During hunting seasons, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
3. Little River Dispersed Campsites
Durbin, West Virginia6 Reviews•36 Photos•287 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Gatewood Group
Circleville, West Virginia1 Review•3 Photos•5 SavesOverview
Gatewood Group Campground is ideally located just two miles from Spruce Knob Lake in the Monongahela Forest, creating an ideal base camp for hikes and wildlife watching.
Recreation
With over 500 miles of hiking trails, visitors are have many options in the forest, including the Gatewood Nature Trail. With some of the most beautiful overlooks in the area, Spruce Knob Lake offers fishing and boating opportunities (fish are stocked). No swimming is allowed. Unobstructed views of the night sky bring stargazer clubs to this spot all summer long.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on a ridge in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. The Monongahela Forest extends over the north central highlands of the state, encompassing many of the region's highest peaks. Elevations range from 1,000-4,863 feet, and Gatewood sits at 4,300 feet. Variations in terrain and precipitation have created one of the most ecologically diverse national forests in the country.
Nearby Attractions
Spruce Knob, West Virginia's highest peak, lies just 9 miles from the campground. It overlooks forested ridges and grassy open pastures. Visitors can drive or hike to the top. Rock climbing is also a popular activity.
- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
$60 / night
6. Eagle Rock Campground
Upper Tract, West Virginia4 Reviews•30 Photos•26 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Toilets
- Alcohol
$10 / night
7. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Brandywine, West Virginia10 Reviews•57 Photos•408 SavesThis colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound. Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Camp Ara
Grafton, West Virginia2 Reviews•22 Photos•39 SavesCamp Ara is a beautiful 113-acre property in Fairmont, WV. Located in the Allegheny Mountains about 20 minutes south of Morgantown, WV, and West Virginia University. It is close to major cities like Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Columbus, Cincinnati, and many others. The property has been run as a Christian camp for over 60 years, serving and changing the lives of countless youth along the way. There is a large number of foster children in and around the area that are currently in great need of programs that connect them with nature, help them to grow individually, and help teach them life skills to prepare them for transitioning out of the foster care system. In addition to running year-round programming, Camp Ara is home to 80+ acres of virtually untouched land. We have created 40 beautiful campsites that require various amounts of hiking to reach. No matter what site you choose, however, you will almost definitely feel as though you are alone with nature.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$20 - $150 / night
9. Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6
Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia1 Review•22 Photos•20 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Trash
10. Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center
Kitzmiller, Maryland2 Reviews•16 Photos•32 SavesAbrams Creek Campground and Retreat brings you as close as possible to pristine nature. Tent sites are generously sized, spaced well apart, shaded, and on soft natural earth. Cabins are secluded and set into the forest. Even at full capacity, there is no sense of crowding. You are never far from our wild, whitewater stream. In some places, it is a constant source of energy and playfulness; in other places, it is peaceful and calming, inviting you to soak in its beauty. The forest offers a vast array of plants, and signs of wildlife are everywhere. We are not only a business, but also serve as an anchor for others who want to live more simply and close to the earth. The concept of rural revitalization means reinventing rural life so that it is economically sound, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally satisfying. Ask any of our staff if you would like to learn more about this.
We are located within 30-45 minutes of many major recreational areas, including Blackwater Falls, Swallow Falls, Dolly Sods Wilderness, the Youghiogheny River, several ski resorts, and Deep Creek Lake. Mount Storm (3 miles) has a general store, gas station, library, motel, sports and recreation store, and public park.
Guests are welcome to interact with hosts as they choose or be as private and secluded as they wish to be. Weather permitting, we have a bonfire most Saturday nights.
Our usual check in time is 3PM; you may check in anytime after 3PM until 10PM, or later by arrangement. Our usual check out time is noon. If you need more flexible check in or check out times, please contact us!Dogs are welcome!
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Trash
$28 / night
Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews in Elkins
479 Reviews of 21 Elkins Campgrounds
Kevin C.
Ranger
Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center
Scenic and secluded
Tented a cabin for two nights to hide from bad weather. Cabin had electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights. The campground had no other guests during our stay.
The campground is long and narrow bordering on Abrams Creek. We took daily walks to the end of the campground and enjoyed the scenic views.
The campsite has port-a-potties for each cabin and for groups of campsites. Water was clean and had no oder.
The only concern noted was the bath house. It was poorly lighted and made of what looked like left over materials.
The gentleman that checked us in was a wealth of knowledge. He told us all about the campground and told us they offer an outdoor shower. Their were two outdoor shower stalls which were shower curtains next to the shower house.
- CChalang R.
Traveler
Hone Quarry
Great for mid week
If you live in Harrisonburg, Bridgwater and any surrounding area, this place is amazing. Fair warning, this place is DARK DARK, but your campers, so. The campsites are clean, $5 a night will get you a place to stay. Payment box upfront. There’s a pond up the road to fish.
- CChalang R.Traveler
Eagle Rock Campground
Great for a night
Was coming back from fishing and need a place to sleep without paying for a hotel. Great place honestly. I don’t really have anything negative to say about it. At $10 and fishing, I’ll definitely be back.
- Harley G.
Guide
Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
First night
This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time.
Tiel M.Traveler
Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground
Primitive plus.
That's the best way to describe this park. It has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad. I love how open and natural it feels.
However, the plus is that there are lots of little amentities, a coffee pavilion, wood to buy, portapots, and an incredibly kind "staff." I'm mobility impaired and it was just my dog and I. The guys were super helpful bringing the wheelbarrow of wood to me, which would have been difficult for me.
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.
The property was clean and quiet other than the occasional diesel truck going down the road.
- WWaseem H.Guide
Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
Beautiful views
Very quiet, beautiful views, amazing drive from VA. Multiple campsites and they all have beautiful views. I have T-Mobile and had signal only by the first campsite for some reason. I had no signal for almost two hours heading towards VA.
- WWaseem H.Guide
Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Quiet peaceful place
I didn’t find and good spots, but it was quiet and peaceful. I drove from there to flag pole. The trail was really fun and moderately difficult.
- SSarah C.Guide
Brandywine Lake Campground — Shenandoah Wildlife Management Area
Drive on up to site!
Clean, comfortable campground with spacious sites. Some of the sites are very private, others are a little less. Some have bear boxes and some are a lot closer to bath house than others. There is a large overflow lot available and set up for campers. However, we went on a Monday night and only shared the campground with 4 other groups of campers. Hosts are on site and both friendly and informative. Hiking trails nearby and some start at campground. Lake is low but still good for swimming or floating. We had a very peaceful night, even with the rain. Recommend!
Jeremiah S.Guide
Bulltown Campground — Burnsville Lake Wildlife Management Area
Surviving Storm
We booked this trip last minute on Memorial Day weekend and literally took the last site reservable. The place was crowded and our corner was as crowded as anywhere. The people beside us had way too many cars that made it a little tough to back in. The 5 dudes standing around helped us navigate their vehicles but it was annoying. Later the guy brought us over some whiskey and beers, maybe as an unstated apology.
The CG itself was very family oriented and our site was a good size. We went swimming in lake two days and drove down to Flatwoods for some of the best ice cream you can find at The Spot (UFO and alien sighting location lol).
A huge storm rolled through with 40/50 mph winds. We had a little heads up thanks to buying a day of WiFi but most people were caught flat footed. We saw 30 plus awnings and canopies destroyed. Power went out for entire last day but we were fine. No rangers or park folks let us know anything but that was fine.
I’d recommend c1-c5 if you have kids.
- Jeremiah S.Guide
Stonewall Resort State Park Campground
Great Amenities
After years of tent camping, this was our first camping trip with camper our and two youngest kids. When we stayed it was cold outside but we had full hook up and were prepared.
We had nice view of the lodge. The lodge amenities are top notch with a heated pool that only costs a a daily charge to use on top of camping. The campsite itself was a little pricey with the only thing distinguishing the campground being lodge activities you have to pay for.
I’d recommend sites 1-5, 20, and 39.
Beth R.
Legend
Flatwoods KOA
Ok overnight
Pros: 50 AMP, sewer & water hookup
Cons: Gravel sites Check-in at Days Inn Limited amenities (pools at Days Inn)
Trisha G.
ScoutEagle Rock Campground
♥️
We have been coming to Eagle Rock for years. Most of the people change every year but there are some that have permanent campers here. A few rude people this year but we still enjoyed our time. It doesn’t have all the amenities that some would want. If you enjoy roughing it then ER is worth camping at.
- KKatie H.Guide
Swallow Falls State Park Campground
Gorgeous Park
We love this park! We have camped and stayed in a camper cabin. We love camping in the trees that provide some privacy. At night time, the owls hoot away. The bathhouses are pretty good, not the best but are always clean. I like that the campground is dog friendly, but didn’t realize the park is not. The waterfall trails are beautiful and a sight to explore. Definitely recommend this park!
Michael H.TravelerCanaan Loop Road Dispersed
Great area for backcountry car camping /overlanding!
Loved camping here! We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping!
Kim S.Traveler
Audra State Park Campground
Beautiful campsites
It's a curvy small road to get there but it's well worth the drive. Beautiful campsites,some right on the river. Access to water that is icy cold but definitely fun to play in. The camp store is well stocked and the employees are friendly.
Danny M.Scout
Whittaker Campground
Cass,WV
Great location for Cass RR or start or end of the greenbrier river rail trail. Privately owned. Grassy sites, “mostly “ . We camped in our Van. 110/30 amp service at most sites. Many seasonal rental spaces. “Simple “ plywood shower and toilet house. (Mens side not so clean) hot water shower. $30/night with or without electricity. Tight sites, we camped mid week before the Memorial Day holiday.
- kkeri S.Traveler
Family Fishing N' Camping
AS OF 5/18/2024
This establishment does NOT offer tent sites anymore! 5/18/2024. I called to make a reservation and they said they do not do that anymore as of a few years ago.
- kkeri S.Traveler
Broken Wheel Campground
Family camping
I recently went tent camping with my two children and 2 dogs it was a wonderful experience! The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and gaurentee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts! Plenty of trash cans around and a nice park to play at. We tied our doggos between two trees and let them run. Firewood for sale. None to gather around not even sticks so be prepared for that. The tent camping sites arnt marked you kind of just go anywhere which was fine since we were the only ones there. We loved it!
J.B. S.Scout
Bakers Run Campground — Elk River Wildlife Management Area
A True Campground Get Away
Great campground hosts!!!!!
Bakers Run is a great place to camp for families and people who can let go and stay off the grid for a few days. There little to no cell service available and having a boat to enjoy the lake is a must. Camping here for many years due to the location and ease of access for boaters. Getting to the campground can be nerve racking for those who do not like love the back roads of WV. Bakers Run is a great place to get away from it all. Bakers Run is well of the beaten path nestled along the shoreline of Sutton Lake, with that being said Bakers Run is a public Crops of Engineers small and uncommercialized campground. You will not find the following Wi-Fi, swimming pools, snack bars, game rooms, boat rentals, hiking or biking trails. There are two small stores off of campground property offering firewood, snacks, bait, ice, camping supplies and limited grocery items. To fully enjoy Sutton Lake a boat is a must. https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10122583?tab=ratings
kylie B.GuideSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Terrible road to get in
I drive a low vehicle so it probably wasn’t the best idea to make my way in but i was exhausted and needed to rest a couple days . The road was the worst and really not worth the drive in . The sites were trashy , glass, bullet holes in trees and bullet shells . The sites were fairly decent size but you really have to drive way in to get to them . I won’t stay here again although it was really beautiful on the drive out . The lake is gorgeous .
Lucy P.RangerHone Quarry
Very peaceful
Quiet little campground, no frills and no cell service. A few nearby dispersed sites as well.
- Kevin C.Ranger
Revelle’s River Resort
Beautiful Location
My family and I liked this campground a lot. We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river and the seasonal campers spread out around. The camp store was nice with everything you need, and the staff and owners were friendly as well. We were there for a long weekend and all agreed we would go back.
Paige H.Traveler
Blackwater Falls State Park Campground
Winter camping at blackwater falls
Campsites are just the right size. Very level and nicely done. Sites have electric hookup a picnic table and a fire ring. Wood is available for purchase at the office when you come In. Bathhouse is located in the center of the campsites
Emil D.TravelerSwitzer Lake Dispersed Camping
Nice area the camp spots can use some work
I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites. Over the years, it seems that some people leave more trash here, but not always. Please do NOT camp next to the lake even if you see fire rings. If the rangers come (which they did twice in 10 years), they will be very upset with you and make you pack up.
The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots. The road beyond the river can get more tricky for low clearance vehicles.
There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times.
The fishing is decent, and we have caught some trout there in the past. There is a boat ramp at the lake, but only electric motors and paddle boats are allowed.
Just a heads up, there is no cellphone signal for any carrier from what I could tell.
Benjamin S.ScoutSwallow Falls State Park Campground
Peaceful and Serene
Campground was well maintained. Tent pads were great. It rained on us but tent pads were elevated enough that we stayed dry. It is so peaceful and serene there. Hiked the trails to the waterfalls and had a great time. Firewood was cheap. Bathrooms were good and clean.
- JJourdan B.Scout
Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
Absolutely gorgeous remote dispersed camping
25 Beautiful remote sites with Mountain View’s and lake overlook
Fred R.Ranger
Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground
2023 Final trip
First time here with great sights and plenty to do. Vast park and trails galore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elkins, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elkins, WV is Bear Heaven Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Elkins, WV?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Elkins, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.