Campground facilities around Fairmont, West Virginia range from rustic tent sites to fully-equipped RV parks, all located within the Appalachian foothills. Elevations in this region typically range from 900 to 2,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though several privately operated facilities like Family Fishing N' Camping offer year-round access.
What to do
Water recreation at Tygart Lake: During summer months, the 10-mile-long lake provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. "The lake offers great relaxation and the trails around the lake offer pretty views. Only wish that there were more trails available because it's so beautiful in that area," notes a visitor to Tygart Lake State Park Campground.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The region offers varied terrain for cyclists of all skill levels. A camper at Coopers Rock State Forest shares, "I have been going here for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches aren't too high (50ft) but great just to get out there and enjoy life!"
Swimming in natural settings: Several campgrounds feature river or lake swimming areas outside designated beaches. At Audra State Park, campers report, "You can hear the river flowing past the grounds. There is on-site laundry between the main shower house, and a nice general store for ice, wood, or any other supplies you may have forgotten."
Visit nearby small towns: The towns of Davis and Thomas offer cultural experiences within 45 minutes of Blackwater Falls. A camper notes, "Spent the day in Thomas looking at local art & antiques. The evening in Davis eating at Hellbender Burritos. I love this part of our beautiful state!"
What campers like
River proximity: Sites along waterways remain among the most popular camping options near Fairmont. A visitor to Audra State Park Campground explains, "The most scenic campground I have stayed in to date. The whole thing is along a beautiful crystal clear river that runs along large rocks. There is great trout fishing in the area and great hiking trails within the park."
Secluded tent sites: Campers seeking privacy appreciate forested locations. One reviewer at Coopers Rock State Forest mentions, "We stayed here 9/2018 at site #10 and can't wait to return. There is a small campground just by the entrance that has a small store and electric sites with RV hookups. Site 10 was at the campground at the top of the hill, sparsely populated, and had beautiful views beyond the trees."
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathhouses rank highly in camper satisfaction. "The campground was in great shape, the RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently. The bathrooms were clean and heated to a comfortable level. Showers had great pressure as well," reports a Coopers Rock visitor.
Wi-Fi availability: While cell service varies widely, some campgrounds offer internet access. At Mylan Park, a camper notes, "There aren't a whole lot of full hook up camping spots in the Morgantown area. Mylan park has a bunch of full hook ups in a parking lot convenient to I-79."
What you should know
Varied site conditions: Some campgrounds feature significant elevation changes affecting comfort. At Tygart Lake, one camper warns, "Almost all sites are on a hill. The pictures do not accurately show this. We had site 33 (probably the worst site). The entire site was on a slant and covered in rocks."
Unpredictable wildlife encounters: Raccoons and other wildlife may affect your camping experience. A camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground recommends keeping food secure, especially in tent sites.
Seasonal temperatures: Fall camping requires preparation for cold nights. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid-September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" shares a Blackwater Falls camper.
Event scheduling conflicts: At some campgrounds, nearby events can create noise issues. A Mylan Park visitor cautions, "In another pavilion 500 yards away there was a rave. Hundreds of people listening to Electronic Dance Music (EDM) that went on til 2am. I spoke to several employees over the course of our visit here and no one ever mentioned."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children appreciate designated play areas. At Blackwater Falls, a camper shares, "There's so much to do at this park! Multiple waterfalls, awesome hikes, a lake, a nature center for the kids, a petting zoo."
Swimming areas: Natural water features provide entertainment for children. At Camp Ara, a visitor notes, "You can rent a cabin, camp in the woods, or rent a bunkroom or your group. Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing!"
Pet-friendly options: Many families camp with dogs and appreciate designated pet areas. A camper at Coopers Rock mentions, "Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time."
Fishing opportunities: Kid-friendly fishing spots provide family activities. At Family Fishing N' Camping, a visitor reports, "There is great fishing and the staff and people are very accommodating."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies significantly between campgrounds. At Coopers Rock, a recent visitor notes, "The sites are spread out. Electricity at sites but no water or sewer. A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water."
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify site sizes before booking. A Mylan Park camper shares, "Decent sized 'parking spaces,' available on holiday weekend, good price ($40/night), full hookups (bring your long sewer tube, I used 3x15' as it's at the tail of the spot)."
Dump station locations: Some facilities have inconveniently positioned dump stations. At Blackwater Falls, a camper warns, "There's a dump that's in the middle of the first loop. You have to go the wrong way on a one-way road to dump. Campsite 40 I would avoid since it's close to the dump."
Road access limitations: Larger RVs face challenges at some campgrounds. A visitor to Audra State Park cautions, "Big/long RV's (driven or pulled) have difficulty navigating this narrow, curvy campground road pocked with rocky outcroppings. Park in the day use parking by the bridge or picnic area and scout it out first."
