The mountainous region surrounding Flat Top, West Virginia sits at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Fall temperatures can drop below freezing at night even when daytime highs reach the 70s. Most primitive campgrounds in the area require campers to pack out all trash, and several lack cell service entirely.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Campbell Falls at Camp Creek State Park has an accessible trail that starts near Blue Jay Campground. "There are miles and miles of trails, I hiked 16 and only encountered 1 couple," reports Anna S., who appreciated the solitude. The trails follow an old railroad bed with moderate terrain changes.
Waterfront activities: Fish for catfish at Meador Campground on Bluestone Lake. "We stayed in Meador site 14, which was the furthest away from the bath house (still only maybe 150 yards), but it was on the water & was the most secluded," notes Jay N., highlighting the water access. Sites 14 and 15 offer the best water views with less campground traffic.
Star gazing: Look for designated dark sky areas across the New River Gorge National Park. "The night sky was amazingly clear and stars were bright," writes Kevin A. from Pipestem Resort State Park, where light pollution is minimal. Best viewing occurs between 10 PM and 2 AM away from camp lighting.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Recently renovated shower houses get high marks at Camp Creek State Park's Mash Fork Campground. "Bath/Shower House was very clean. Instant hot water was appreciated at the tap (it was in the 30s when we were there in mid-October)," according to Lee D., who noted the thoughtful design features. "Hooks and shelves for toiletries were appreciated."
Privacy between sites: Well-spaced campsites provide separation at Little Beaver State Park. "Sites are big and spread out. It's quiet. Walking trails all over," reports Heather H., who stayed in site 19, one of the few pull-through options. Other campers highlight the woodsy setting that creates natural buffers between neighboring sites.
Creek sounds for sleeping: Waterside sites at Grandview Sandbar Campground let campers fall asleep to flowing water. "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious," writes Van M., though noting: "Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing." Most tent sites sit directly on the sandy beach area with river views.
What you should know
Weather affects road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds become challenging after rainfall. Narrow, winding gravel roads lead to Glade Creek Campground, where "there is a narrow one-lane bridge you must cross," cautions Dave V. Fall and spring typically bring more precipitation, making 4WD vehicles advantageous.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have restricted shower access or none at all. At Meador Campground, "The bathrooms and other facilities are a little dated but the campground is very clean," notes Jeremiah S. Blue Jay Campground offers only vault toilets despite having running water for hand washing.
Wildlife encounters: Skunks, raccoons, and deer frequent campgrounds throughout the region. "There were about a half dozen skunks. Kinda kept me on edge," reports Jeff E. about Meador Campground. At Pipestem, Andrew S. warns: "The raccoons at night have a schedule of getting any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple playgrounds throughout Pipestem Resort State Park provide recreation options. "Kids loved biking around campground, very safe," shares Molly F., noting the family-friendly atmosphere. The nearby nature center offers educational programs on weekends during summer months.
Swimming options: Both indoor and outdoor pools are available seasonally. "You can find a nicely updated park for the kids to play... My only complaint is that the camp store did not keep their ice cream stocked," mentions Jennifer S. about Pipestem's facilities. Little Beaver State Park also has a lake with designated swimming areas.
Non-camping alternatives: Cabin rentals provide comfort for families not ready for tent camping. "The cabin was stocked with minimal kitchen ware, we brought in our groceries," explains Rob S. about accommodations at Bluestone State Park. "There was a picnic table and satellite TV to our surprise."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for most campgrounds in the region. "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty," advises Adam and Suzanne B. about Little Beaver State Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: The most suitable spots for large trailers are at Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, where full hookups are available. "Spots are long but pretty close together," notes Heather H., who managed with a triple axle trailer. "We're a triple axl so we had to take it nice and slow getting there with the road and even navigating the property but it was fine."
Dump station logistics: Plan your departure around dump station access. At Little Beaver State Park, "Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump," explains Charlie W. Most state parks have single-lane dump stations that can create morning backups during peak season weekends.
