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.​&nbsp;

 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.



Camp Ara

Family Fishing N' Camping

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.

Possum Tail Farm Camp 

This is the HEADLINE

Northeastern

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


With over 40 state and national parks, West Virginia’s vast mountainous wilderness begs to be explored. In less than a day’s drive from the Mid-Atlantic’s urban corridor, you can be paddling in swirling whitewater, camping in pristine mountain forests, or stargazing in some of the clearest night skies in the East. It’s time to plan your trip camping in West Virginia! 


West Virginia’s inspiring geology has been carved by some of the world’s oldest rivers. Experience these ancient natural forces up close by exploring the nation’s premier whitewater rafting location, New River Gorge. The New River Gorge National River, part of the United States National Park System, extends 53-miles in southern West Virginia. Along with some of the best paddling in the country, rock climbers flock to the 1,400 established climbs in the sandstone cliffs. 70,000-acres of wilderness offer free riverfront primitive camping spots, while campers who want more amenities can take advantage of several private campgrounds in nearby Fayetteville, WV. 


If you find yourself camping in West Virginia’s New River Gorge in October, you might catch Bridge Day, the world’s largest extreme sports event. Cheer on BASE jumpers as they leap 900-feet from the top of the river’s bridge while you enjoy local food and craft vendors, live music, and great mountain views. 


When planning a trip camping in West Virginia, don’t miss the chance to take in the views from West Virginia’s most famous landmark, Seneca Rocks. Located in the Monongahela National Forest, and renowned for its incredible beauty, this natural landmark rises nearly 900-feet above the North Fork River. Especially well-known in rock climbing circles, the impressive rock formation offers 375 of the most technical mapped climbing routes in the eastern United States. Non-climbers can take in the view from the top by lacing up their boots. The Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail climbs the observation platform and is a day hike suitable for all ages. 


Facilities for tent and RV camping, rental cabins, and primitive campsites are available nearby. A local favorite, Seneca Shadows Campground, offers views of the rocks from your campsite, as well as modern facilities including flush toilets and picnic tables. No matter where your outdoor adventures take you in the Wild and Wonderful state, with The Dyrt you’ll find the best camping in West Virginia along the way!

West Virginia

The Best West Virginia Camping | 100+ WV Campgrounds

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Fairmont. Fairmont is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Fairmont and user-submitted reviews.

Fairmont

The Best Camping Near Fairmont, West Virginia

Less than 15 miles from Morgantown, West Virginia, you will find a stunning 12,747-acre protected forest. Coopers Rock State Forest is home to a vibrant stretch of trails and forest that share a border with the canyons of the Cheat River, which is notorious with white water rafters. Besides being a scenic area to pitch a tent, Coopers Rock actually offers a multitude of options for recreation. This includes picnicking, fishing, hiking, hunting, camping, and rock climbing. Visitors who want to use the park for hunting or fishing are asked to obtain the proper licensing prior to arriving. The extra step is worth it though, as the park features a glistening six-acre pond that’s brimming with fresh trout that’s located on the northern side of the forest. 

 Coopers Rock State Forest has been, and continues to be a hugely popular destination with rock climbing enthusiasts. It’s considered one of the best areas for bouldering in the eastern U.S., and there are at least 5 popular climbing sites that are easy to find within the park. Those destinations are Roof Rocks, Upper Rock City, Sunset Wall, Roadside Rocks, and Tilted Tree. 

 If you enjoy winter sports, you’ll be pleased to find that Coopers Rock is also known for its ski terrain in the winter. Be careful, however, as the trails here are known to be best suited for intermediate to experienced skiiers. For those considering trying them out, frequent visitors suggest waiting until the snow is densely packed on, at least half a foot, to avoid injury on the many rocks, branches and roots on the trails below the snow.

 Breathtaking views atop sky-high cliffs make camping at the park almost a given for visitors. The park offers two different campgrounds, each offering the options of comforts like water and electricity hook-ups, or more traditional tent camping. All accommodations here are first come first serve. McCollum Campground serves as the main camping area and accommodates a total of 25 campsites, each equipped with electrical and water hook-ups, a bathhouse and even wireless internet. Pets are welcome visitors as long as they remain on a leash or crate at all times.



Coopers Rock State Forest

Sand Springs Campground

Chestnut Ridge Regional Park

As one of the industrial backbones of the country, West Virginia has always been recognized and appreciated for its diverse geography consisting of towering plateaus and endlessly rolling mountain ranges. Located partially between Upshur County and Barbour Country, Audra State Park boasts 355 acres of unspoiled forest, diverse ecosystems, and unique caves and river runs. While much of the surrounding region has suffered the consequences of mining and deforestation, this park preserves 355 regional acres of natural beauty for anyone to enjoy. 

Audra State Park has long served locals as an affordable way to recreate, with a variety of fun activities to partake in. Hiking, cycling, fishing, and even geocaching are all common activities that can be easily enjoyed here on a budget. Furthermore, during the summer months, the Middle Fork River comes alive while families, kids and teenagers enjoy the many natural swimming areas available throughout.

Hidden along 3 miles of groomed trails in the park lies Alum Cave, a natural geological rock feature which hangs over the river below. In the winter, large icicle spires form down the cave canopy making this an ideal spot for Photographers.

For those looking for an experience indoors, the West Virginia State Wildlife Center is a modern zoological facility dedicated to preserving and showcasing the regional wild-life. Nearby, the town of Buckhannon offers an array of small town attractions, including a movie theatre and local eats. If you’re visiting in May, be sure to check out their annual Strawberry Festival!  

The campsites are spacious and fully functional for those intending to utilize a tent. Open from April through October, there are 67 available with thirteen of them offering electrical hookups. Furthermore, there are two fully-serviced bathhouses with warm-water showers, and coin-operated laundry available. There is also a well stocked camping store, which offers normal conveniences as well as firewood for purchase. All reservations are first come first serve, so be sure to make your plans well in advance. 

Audra State Park Capmground

## Overview

Horseshoe Recreation Area is located in north-central West Virginia, 7 miles from the town of St. George. The campground is tucked in a valley along the Horseshoe Run River, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. 

## Recreation

Day hiking options include the 1.8-mile Losh Trail, the Dorman Ridge Trail at 1.3 miles, and Two Camp, a short 0.3 mile hike. Fishing for trout is a popular pastime and hunting is allowed in an area about a mile beyond the recreation area. 

## Facilities

Each site offers picnic tables, grills, and waste receptacles and standard sites have electric hookups. There are accessible vault toilets and non-accessible flush toilets. Hand pumps and a drinking fountain with faucet are available. The camp store sells firewood and ice. The two group picnic shelters are accessible. The large electric pavilion has an occupancy limit of 75, and the small non-electric pavilion has an occupancy limit of 10.

## Natural Features

Within the recreation area, open fields are mowed and gravel roads are maintained along the river. The Monongahela Forest extends over the north central highlands of the state, straddling many of the region's highest peaks. Elevation ranges from 1,000 to 4,863 feet above sea level.   
  
Variations in terrain and precipitation have created one of the most ecologically diverse national forests in the country. 

## Nearby Attractions

Take a scenic drive throughout the forest. Fall brings incredible foliage colors to the region.

Horseshoe Recreation Area

Ryerson Station State Park

Nestled in the scenic hills of West Virginia near the Monongahela National Forest, Five River Campground is the perfect place to spend time with family and friends or to meet new ones! Located on the beautiful and serene banks of the Shavers Fork River it is a prime area to relax or invigorate your spirit with activities centered on the outdoors.  Five River Campground serves as a base camp for adventure. We are centrally located to many areas that offer exciting and exhilarating outdoor escapades for the novice or expert alike.

Five River Camp Ground has a 84 full service RV/Camper sites with lots of tent sites and a centrally located bath house with unlimited hot showers, modern restrooms, Laundromat, and two dumping stations. Campsite pedestals are 30/50 amp service. The campground is open year round, however the bath house is only available from April 1st  through October 31 annually.
Nightly reservations are accepted for anytime except July 10th - August 7th due to Pickin' In Parsons Bluegrass Festival.

All campsites are natural grassy areas within walking distance to over 2,500 feet of natural shoreline on the Shavers Fork River.


 Furry, Four legged friends are welcome as long as they are well behaved. We also ask that your keep everyones pet safe by leashing, and cleaning up.  


Five River Campground

Join the fun near Charleston. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Charleston is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Charleston

The Best Camping Near Charleston, West Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Charleston. Charleston is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your West Virginia camping adventure.

Huntington, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Huntington is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Huntington and user-submitted reviews.

Huntington

The Best Camping Near Huntington, West Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Huntington, WV has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Huntington is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Parkersburg, WV? Parkersburg is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Parkersburg, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Parkersburg

The Best Camping Near Parkersburg, West Virginia

Join the fun near Morgantown. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that West Virginia camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Morgantown

The Best Camping Near Morgantown, West Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Wheeling, WV has a lot to offer. Wheeling is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Wheeling. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Wheeling

The Best Camping Near Wheeling, West Virginia

Weirton, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that West Virginia camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Weirton, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Weirton

The Best Camping Near Weirton, West Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Beckley. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Beckley is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Beckley

The Best Camping Near Beckley, West Virginia

Monongahela National Forest, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Monongahela National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Monongahela National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Monongahela National Forest

The Best Camping Near Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia

New River Gorge National River preserves more than 70,000 acres of land and is home to some of West Virginia’s best whitewater flowing through it. In fact, the river running through it is one of North America’s oldest rivers.

The best camping near New River Gorge National River is anywhere you can find it. All campsites are primitive, first-come, first-served, and, best of all, free. Backcountry camping works the same way. You can park your van down by the river for free, as long as you’re self-sustaining. Amenities will be minimal at any of the nine campgrounds. Not all campgrounds are drive-in or RV accessible, so verify ahead of time. As long as you follow the park’s ordinances, you can camp here for up to 14 days. If you want more traditional lodging, there are a handful of cities nearby, but the main one is Beckley, WV.

New River Gorge National River

New River Gorge National River is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that West Virginia camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near New River Gorge National River, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping Near New River Gorge National River, West Virginia

Summersville Lake, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Summersville Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Summersville Lake and user-submitted reviews.

Summersville Lake

The Best Camping Near Summersville Lake, West Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Jennings Randolph Lake, WV has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Jennings Randolph Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Jennings Randolph Lake

The Best Camping Near Jennings Randolph Lake, West Virginia

R.D. Bailey Lake, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are R.D. Bailey Lake campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in R.D. Bailey Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

R.D. Bailey Lake

The Best Camping Near R.D. Bailey Lake, West Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Beech Fork Lake, WV? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that West Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Beech Fork Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Beech Fork Lake

The Best Camping Near Beech Fork Lake, West Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Bluestone Lake, WV? Bluestone Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Bluestone Lake

The Best Camping Near Bluestone Lake, West Virginia

Burnsville Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Burnsville Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Burnsville Lake camping trip.

Burnsville Lake

The Best Camping Near Burnsville Lake, West Virginia

Searching for the best camping near East Lynn Lake, WV? East Lynn Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near East Lynn Lake, reviewed by campers like you.

East Lynn Lake

The Best Camping Near East Lynn Lake, West Virginia

Sutton Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Sutton Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Sutton Lake, WV. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Walk-In Camping in Fairmont

Top Fairmont Campgrounds

1.