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Best Campgrounds near Fairmont, WV

514 Reviews

State parks and forests surrounding Fairmont, West Virginia provide diverse camping experiences within the Appalachian foothills. Tygart Lake State Park, located 20 miles south in Grafton, offers lakeside camping with boat-in access and cabin options. Coopers Rock State Forest, situated 30 minutes northeast near Morgantown, features scenic overlooks and electric hookup sites popular with both tent and RV campers. Closer to town, Oakdale Village provides basic tent camping, while Family Fishing N' Camping offers year-round access with full hookups for RVs. The region's camping options range from primitive walk-in sites to developed campgrounds with modern amenities, all within an hour's drive of Fairmont.

Mountainous terrain and seasonal weather patterns significantly impact camping conditions throughout the area. Most state park campgrounds operate from mid-April through October, with limited winter accessibility. Frequent rainfall can create challenging conditions, particularly at riverside locations like Audra State Park where sites occasionally flood during heavy precipitation. As one camper noted, "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months." Cell service remains limited at many campgrounds, with Coopers Rock being a notable exception offering WiFi access. Reservations are recommended during summer weekends and fall foliage season when campgrounds fill quickly with visitors from nearby urban centers.

Wildlife encounters feature prominently in camper experiences throughout the region. Deer sightings are common at dawn and dusk, particularly at Tygart Lake and Coopers Rock. Some campgrounds report raccoon activity, with one Tygart Lake visitor warning, "There is a huge raccoon problem here, even during the day. Many people bring an extra tent to keep their food in." Riverside camping at Audra State Park receives consistently positive reviews for the soothing sounds of flowing water and access to swimming areas. Sites with scenic views tend to be the most sought-after, especially those overlooking Tygart Lake or the Cheat River gorge from Coopers Rock. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities with hot showers, though bathroom quality varies considerably between locations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Fairmont, West Virginia (99)

    1. Tygart Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    14 miles
    Website

    "There was a bathroom close by with running water and showers. It was beautiful and very close to the lake."

    "Trails to lakeside/shore where campers do swim although no swimming from shore is "not" allowed. Just be respectful and clean up after yourselves and usually no drama involved."

    2. Coopers Rock State Forest

    32 Reviews
    Dellslow, WV
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 594-1561

    $25 - $35 / night

    "This is the largest state forest in West Virginia, it has a total of 25 sites that vary in their privacy. Each site has electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire grates, and utility post."

    "There is also a small laundry room with dishwashing sink behind the bathhouse. Both ice and firewood are sold onsite."

    3. Camp Ara

    2 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (757) 652-4777

    $20 - $150 / night

    "Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing! Cant wait to go back!"

    4. Mylan Park

    5 Reviews
    Cassville, WV
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 983-2383

    "Decent sized “parking spaces” Available on holiday weekend Good price ($40/night) Full hookups (bring your long sewer tube, I used 3 x15’ as it’s at the tail of the spot) Fields & Grassy area adjacent"

    "We love it here most of the time it’s close to Morgantown so it’s perfect for university events. Really close to campus. They have full hookups & partial hookups."

    5. Family Fishing N' Camping

    3 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 265-1000

    $10 - $150 / night

    6. CAMP73ROCKST☆R

    1 Review
    Morgantown, WV
    10 miles

    $35 - $65 / night

    7. Audra State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Volga, WV
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 457-1162

    "Audra State Park, is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the journey. Tucked away, just outside of Buckhannon, WV...home of West Virginia Wesleyan College."

    "v=VLUEBlIxHpo)

    Trails undulate with the terrain. The short trail within the campground area is steep in areas but offers some nice views."

    8. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    80 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $20 - $54 / night

    "The plan was to camp and hike throughout West Virginia, but when we visited Pathfinder outdoor retailer in Morgantown, WV the staff encouraged us to check out Ohiopyle, while we were so close."

    "Very close to two Frank Lloyd Wright properties– Kentuck Knob and the more widely known Falling Waters."

    9. Indian Meadows Campground

    1 Review
    Cassville, WV
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 879-5526

    "The rate for a tent spot is 17 and there are spot for 50,30 amps RVs The owner is a nice guy There is a near gas station"

    10. Blackwater Falls State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 259-5216

    $50 / night

    "Blackwater State Park, Davis, WV https://wvstateparks.com/park/blackwater-falls-state-park/

    Camping anywhere in West Virginia is a highlight, but this area offers hiking views aplenty."

    "This was our first stay in a state park campground in West Virginia and it was a great stay. Arrived during a steady downpour and rented a cabin for the first night but camped the second night."

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514 Reviews of 99 Fairmont Campgrounds

Guide to Fairmont

Camping near Fairmont, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the nearby rivers. One camper mentioned, "Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohio Pyle river. Very convenient to the river and town." This makes Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park a great spot for water lovers.
  • Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails in the area. A visitor at Audra State Park Campground said, "A trail winds along the river offering spectacular views." This is perfect for those who enjoy nature walks.
  • Fishing: Cast a line in the local lakes and rivers. One happy camper at Tygart Lake State Park Campground shared, "It was beautiful and very close to the lake," highlighting the fishing opportunities.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review from Blackwater Falls State Park Campground noted, "Bathrooms and showers are very clean. Sites are spacious and well placed."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One visitor at Five River Campground said, "The owners are amazing and so helpful. They go out of their way to make sure you have a wonderful time."
  • Scenic views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A camper at Seneca Shadows remarked, "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I've ever seen."

What you should know:

  • No alcohol allowed: Some campgrounds, like Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park, have strict no-alcohol policies. Be sure to check the rules before you go.
  • Limited amenities: Campgrounds like Red Creek Campground are more primitive, with no electric hookups or showers. A visitor noted, "It's best suited to tents or small RVs/vans because it’s a narrow and bumpy road."
  • Crowded on weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Swallow Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Great hikes to the falls. Went trout fishing all day. Gets crowded on the weekends."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities for kids. A reviewer at Audra State Park Campground said, "The campground also offers a playground, flush toilets, and hot showers."
  • Pack for all weather: Be prepared for rain and changing temperatures. One camper at Tygart Lake State Park Campground advised, "The sites appear to drain well after a rain."
  • Plan activities: Keep kids entertained with planned activities like hiking and fishing. A visitor at Five River Campground said, "Awesome place to camp, kayak, and sightsee."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be tricky for larger RVs. A review from Coopers Rock State Forest warned, "Backing into some of the sites can be tricky with the angles and the ditches along the road."
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Five River Campground offer full hookup sites, which can make your stay more comfortable. A camper mentioned, "Full hookup sites were amazing."
  • Plan for limited services: Some campgrounds may not have water or electric hookups. A visitor at Red Creek Campground noted, "Bring your own water (or treatment)."

Camping around Fairmont, WV, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there tent camping options near Fairmont, WV with shower facilities?

Yes, tent campers near Fairmont can find sites with shower facilities at several nearby campgrounds. Blackwater Falls State Park Campground offers 65 campsites (35 non-electric perfect for tent camping) with shower facilities, though it's the highest campground in West Virginia with some sites offering limited privacy. Audra State Park Campground is another excellent option with shower facilities for tent campers. While not directly in Fairmont, these parks are within reasonable driving distance and provide the shower amenities tent campers seek. Most tent sites accommodate up to two tents and include standard amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.

Where can I find RV rentals in Fairmont, West Virginia?

RV rentals near Fairmont are available through several options, though you may need to look in neighboring communities for the best selection. Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground offers full hookup sites for RVs at reasonable prices, making it a good destination once you've secured a rental. Check local RV dealerships in Morgantown (about 20 minutes from Fairmont) or search online peer-to-peer RV rental platforms like RVshare or Outdoorsy, which connect RV owners with renters. Additionally, Mylan Park near Morgantown has big-rig-friendly sites and might have information about local rental options. Always book rentals well in advance, especially during peak summer months.

What fishing opportunities are available at campgrounds near Fairmont?

The Fairmont area offers excellent fishing opportunities at nearby campgrounds. Horseshoe Recreation Area is a prime fishing destination where campers can enjoy tubing, swimming, and fishing in a quiet, remote setting. The area has nice bathroom facilities and plenty of water access points. For dedicated anglers, Family Fishing N' Camping provides exactly what its name suggests with drive-in access to fishing spots. The Tygart Valley River runs through the region, offering additional fishing opportunities for trout, bass, and other freshwater species. Most fishing campgrounds in the area are open from spring through fall, with the best fishing typically occurring in late spring and early summer.

What campgrounds are available in Fairmont, WV?

While Fairmont itself has limited camping options, the surrounding area offers several excellent campgrounds within a short drive. Tygart Lake State Park Campground is located nearby and provides lakeside camping, though campers should research facilities before booking. For those willing to drive a bit further, Coopers Rock State Forest near Morgantown offers electrical hookups at all sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Additionally, Oakdale Village provides big-rig-friendly options closer to town. Most campgrounds in the region are open seasonally from spring through fall, with varying amenities and reservation requirements.

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