Best Tent Camping near Fairmont, WV

Searching for a tent camping spot near Fairmont? Find the best tent camping sites near Fairmont. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Fairmont's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Fairmont, WV (14)

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Ara

    1. Camp Ara

    2 Reviews
    22 Photos
    39 Saves
    Grafton, West Virginia

    Camp 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Rhododendron Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rhododendron Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rhododendron Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rhododendron Camping Area

    2. Rhododendron Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    29 Saves
    Dellslow, West Virginia

    Named after the state’s official flower, Rhododendron Campground offers 25 primitive campsites that each have a picnic table and fire pit. There is a central bathroom with flushing toilets and running water available for campground guests. The campground is open to only tent/hammock camping. Pets are permitted, so long as your furry friends are kept on a leash. The campgrounds are spring through fall, weather permitting. Campsites may be reserved anytime online, by phone, or at the campground office. Reservations may be made for no less than two consecutive nights on weekends (Friday and Saturday) or one-night Sunday through Thursday. There is a 14-night maximum stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $25 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    3. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    44 Photos
    200 Saves
    Davis, West Virginia

    Recreation 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Heaven Campground

    4. Bear Heaven Campground

    6 Reviews
    6 Photos
    143 Saves
    Bowden, West Virginia

    A 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Possum Tail Farm Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Possum Tail Farm Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Possum Tail Farm Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Possum Tail Farm Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Possum Tail Farm Camp

    5. Possum Tail Farm Camp

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    10 Saves
    Terra Alta, West Virginia

    This a traditional site in the heart of the farm next to a small pond with picnic table and fire pit. It is a sloping wooded space, with flat spots to comfortably accommodate 2-3 tents. There are multiple trees perfect for hanging your hammock in the shade. The compost toilet, about 50ft away, is shared with another campsite. Parking is on a gravel lane adjacent to the site. Potable water(from a frost-free hydrant) is available about 80ft from the site. The pond is only for viewing, no swimming or fishing, please. We have nesting birds occasionally and we expect their habitat to be respected. We are 3 miles from Terra Alta, a rural town with a locally owned restaurant and a local craft beer brewery featuring an exciting rotating cast of food trucks. We are 20 minutes from Swallow Falls State Park(MD), featuring Muddy Creek Falls, awesome river swimming and gorgeous hiking in an old growth Hemlock forest. We are also 20 minutes from Herrington Manor State Park(MD) were there is a lake for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. Cathedral State Park(WV) a virgin Hemlock forest with 400 year old trees about 45 minutes away. Deep Creek Lake(MD) is 40 minutes away and offers motor boat rentals, Golf, Skiing and swimming. There is skiing, hiking, biking, tubing, rafting, kayaking and much more to explore withing 40 minutes of our farm. The best white water rafting on the east coast is 20-40 minutes away. We welcome campers of all kinds! We began operating our 150 acre farm in 2011 and became the first Certified Naturally Grown Livestock farm in West Virginia in 2013. We raise 100% grass-fed beef, Western and Chinese medicinal herbs. Our family garden supplies more than half of our vegetables and our favorite berries, and our flock of chickens supply eggs and an early morning wake-up call for our campers! There are no GMO's, pesticides, herbicides or fungicides used on our farm. Farm products are available for purchase on-site. Campers can choose to to have a farm to table meal cooked for them as an extra at checkout. We prepare most of our food from scratch using local produce, meat and bulk organic dry goods. We occasionally make yogurts, noodles, simple cheeses, and fermented foods.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $55 / night

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          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm
          Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm

          9. Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm

          1 Review
          6 Photos
          28 Saves
          Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania

          You will be camping on top of our hill that overlooks the town, river, mountains and cannabis field. There is a tent that can be used, fire pit and wood.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Reservable
          • ADA Access
          • Tents

          $100 - $150 / night

          • No image available

            10. Lost Land Run

            1 Review
            6 Saves
            Kitzmiller, Maryland
            • Pets
            • Fires
            • Reservable
            • Tents
            • Group
            • Standard (Tent/RV)

            $10 - $20 / night

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          Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

          Recent Tent Reviews in Fairmont

          478 Reviews of 14 Fairmont Campgrounds


          • Joshua B.
            Camper-submitted photo from Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park
            Oct. 5, 2024

            Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

            I fell in love with this place.

            This park has many trails but mostly there more rapids to enjoy. The trails however are of a higher class of terrain though they aren’t necessarily difficult. There is much to see. The most unique part about this place is the small town in the middle of it. The shops are all mom and pop made from scratch food and hand made jewelry and clothing. There is a small pub right up the street and the entire town has an amazing view of the river just across the parking lot, which you can swim in up to a point. Ohiopyle is an amazing place, I have visited it many times and I plan to visit many times in the future.

          • Jeff H.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Coopers Rock State Forest
            Sep. 30, 2024

            Coopers Rock State Forest

            McCollum Campground

            A nice campground in a beautiful area.  Currently, McCollum has 25 campsites, but a new section is under construction.  The sites are relatively level for such a hilly area, but we did need to do a little extra positioning of our camper.  Site 22 is a pull through site and feels extra large compared to others.  No water at this site but is does have 30 and 15 amp service.

            There is a small camp store with the basics and a larger outpost just down the road where many of the trail heads are located.  There is a bit of a Wi-Fi signal but is only accessible when you're at the camp store.

            Fantastic hiking in the area!  Lots of interesting scenery and rock formations to explore.

            Bath house was clean and the water was hot.

            Definitely recommend staying here.

          • Harley G.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
            Sep. 16, 2024

            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.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground
            Sep. 13, 2024

            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.

          • corda B.
            Camper-submitted photo from Chestnut Ridge Regional Park
            Sep. 7, 2024

            Chestnut Ridge Regional Park

            Perfect

            Sites are very large. Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept. Staff was friendly. Quiet and peaceful. Pet friendly. Dump station on grounds and easy access.

          • Cynthia K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA
            Sep. 3, 2024

            Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA

            Nope!

            Tried this KOA on the spur of the moment. We won't be back.

             It's easy on/easy off from the interstate. The hills were terrible getting there, then another hill to get to the KOA. The ANOTHER hill to get to our site. 

              Asked for a site by the bathroom. It was closer than all the other sites on the hill. Yes, all the sites are cut into the hill. There's stairs to get down to the bathroom/shower(!?!?). Some people living in a trailer by the stairs have a big dog that will lunge & bark. 

            It seems like cosmetic things have been done. Planters spaced on posts leading up to the KOA main building. The bathroom had some newer looking siding & some flowers, but the floor in the women's bathroom had holes in it. It smelled funny in there too. This place needs a major remodel! 

             There were cigarette butts EVERYWHERE!

             We were thinking about using the pool, but decided against it. Sites were full sun. 

            Can't believe this is a KOA...

          • Fred R.
            Camper-submitted photo from The Blue Canoe RV Resort
            Sep. 2, 2024

            The Blue Canoe RV Resort

            Summer 2024

            Very nice campground with multiple pools,playsets,cabins and river sites. So quiet cept for the occasional train pass by across the river. Food ice cream and biking access and sites.

          • Owen I.
            Camper-submitted photo from Grand Vue Park
            Aug. 13, 2024

            Grand Vue Park

            Great Park!

            Everyone was so friendly and the gate just uses a code! so not fiddling around with a Fob or keycard! We were the only ones at the campground when we stayed there the park shuttle bus would come around the park and was offering to take you to any where in or outside of the park! Craig introduced himself to us and was super friendly and nice and talked to us about the park and the campground. The Shuttle driver ended up telling us about this super cute breakfast place called Bob's Lunch! It was so good super well priced it was a hidden gem and the shuttle bus even took us on a tour of moundsvile! The Sites were fully paved and the entire campground was super nice! The blacktop was super nice and the campground was easy to navigate the bathhouses were really clean!

          • Kevin D.
            Camper-submitted photo from Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA
            Jul. 21, 2024

            Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA

            Campsites are not level

            A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable. This is overpriced for that simple issue, I guess ok for an overnight stay but I wouldn’t plan a long stay

          • Jeremiah S.
            Camper-submitted photo from Stonewall Resort State Park Campground
            Jul. 8, 2024

            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.

          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Swallow Falls State Park Campground
            Jul. 1, 2024

            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.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
            Jun. 24, 2024

            Canaan 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!

          • Heather M.
            Camper-submitted photo from The Blue Canoe RV Resort
            Jun. 20, 2024

            The Blue Canoe RV Resort

            Good and bad

            This is a former KOA campground, but still has the same management. The good: pretty campground, clean and nice amenities. Bad: the management is rude and unfriendly. Also, the seasonal campers are also salty. We were driving a golf cart, going less than the speed limit and the seasonal guests shook their fingers at us to slow down… Unfortunately we won’t come back bc of the people. The site itself is great.

          • Joni P.
            Camper-submitted photo from Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground
            May. 28, 2024

            Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground

            Commercialized campground

            The entry is strange as we had to block the gated entrance to get to the office to check in.  Once past that,  the staff was nice and the buildings and properties are well maintained.  They have a new bath house which is personal bathroom style and very nice.  The sites are very close together with little privacy.  We stayed in site 435.  The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire.  We did not take part in the planned events they had set up but did use the pool which was nice.  The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair.  Roads are all gravel so no bikes or scooters for kids.

          • Kim S.
            Camper-submitted photo from Audra State Park Campground
            May. 27, 2024

            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.

          • AThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from 15377
            May. 27, 2024

            15377

            Melvins paradise lake farm

            This place is so beautiful so peaceful the fish in the lake a huge. Small fee for fishing. It’s catch and release only. The owners of the property are very caring and helpful and friendly

          • kThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Family Fishing N' Camping
            May. 18, 2024

            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.

          • kThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Broken Wheel Campground
            May. 15, 2024

            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!

          • Tony C.
            Camper-submitted photo from Sand Springs Campground
            May. 11, 2024

            Sand Springs Campground

            Quiet, Lots of trees

            We only stayed one night, driving through. About 3 miles from the interstate, narrow roads. Big rigs probably hard to back in.

          • Sean R.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park
            Feb. 29, 2024

            Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

            right next to Ohiopyle

            Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohio Pyle river.  Very convenient to the river and town.  The campground was not as well maintained as other state parks we have visited but not bad.

          • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run
            Feb. 25, 2024

            Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run

            Nice place to stay near Ohiopyle

            My wife and I tent camped here for a weekend to go rafting. The whole campground sits in kind of a valley along a creek running into the reservoir. It's kind of spread out but seemed nice. Our tent sites were very nice sitting on raised mounds so you would stay fairly dry if it rained. It looks like it may have been a state park at one time, judging by the layout and bathrooms. Not a bad camp at all.

          • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Revelle’s River Resort
            Feb. 24, 2024

            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.

          • Owen I.
            Camper-submitted photo from The Blue Canoe RV Resort
            Feb. 23, 2024

            The Blue Canoe RV Resort

            This Is Was A KOA! (Just Like One)

            Stayed 6-12-23 (When It Was A KOA

            It is your typical campground. it was noisy and loud throughout our whole stay they staff kept washing the showers with dish soap getting it everywhere! Got dish soap all over my pool towels. Expensive for what you get!

          • Paige H.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Blackwater Falls State Park Campground
            Feb. 18, 2024

            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

          • Arlyn S.
            Camper-submitted photo from Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground
            Feb. 6, 2024

            Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground

            Perfect for a good SWPA camping trip... even in the Winter!

            Me and my wife usually can't wait for the warm Spring weather to start our camping season. This year (2024) was no different. We got the itch to go, and Benner's was one of the few campgrounds open during the Winter in SWPA (SouthWestern PA). That was perfect, because we had been wanting to check Benner's out anyway. It's only 32 minutes from our home. So, we figured, if we liked it, it could end up being one of our go-to quick trips when we're limited on time. 

            There really wasn't anything about the campground or the staff that we didn't like. The campground was really nice, although PA Winters are drab, so we kind of had to use our imagination for how beautiful the campground might be when there's vibrant greenery all around. The staff were all extremely nice, and made us feel very welcome.

            There's a good bit to do there. There are 2 ponds and a lake. There is plenty of ground for hiking and wandering. There is playground equipment for kids. There's a nice office with food and snacks (though fairly limited while we were there).

            We definitely plan to drop by during Spring, Summer, or Fall, to see the place in its full beauty. But, until then, this campground is on our "revisit" list. And if the revisit goes well, it could end up on our "regular" list. ;)


          Drive Time


          Guide to Fairmont

          Tent camping near Fairmont, West Virginia, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-equipped campgrounds to more rustic settings, there's something for every type of camper.

          Tent campers appreciate these amenities

          • The Rhododendron Camping Area features picnic tables and allows campfires, making it a cozy spot for gatherings.
          • At Camp Ara, campers can enjoy electric hookups and hot showers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
          • Bear Heaven Campground offers spacious sites with fire pits, perfect for a night under the stars.

          Tips for tent camping near Fairmont

          • Arrive early at the Canaan Loop Road Dispersed to secure a good spot, as it can get busy during peak seasons.
          • Bring your own water when visiting Conaway Run State Lake, as there are no water hookups available.
          • If you're looking for a unique experience, consider Possum Tail Farm Camp, where you can camp close to a pond and enjoy the farm atmosphere.

          Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fairmont, WV?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fairmont, WV is Camp Ara with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find tent camping near Fairmont, WV?

            TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Fairmont, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.