Tent and RV camping near Flat Top, West Virginia offers diverse terrain along the New River Gorge region at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most campgrounds in the area sit along wooded terrain with direct access to water features or hiking trails.
What to do
River activities at Army Camp: Located on the New River, this free campground offers excellent swimming and fishing access. "Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite. Very clean pit toilet bathroom," notes Caroline F. at Army Camp.
Historic exploration near Stone Cliff: The abandoned town of Thurmond is a short drive from Stone Cliff Campground. "Even with the rainy weather the area wasn't too muddy and the campsite we stayed at was level so there wasn't any issue," reports Hallie W. about Stone Cliff Campground.
Mountain biking at Bluestone State Park: The park has multiple paved roads suitable for recreational biking. Mark K. writes about Meador Campground: "The park is awesome with beautiful views and many roads to bike on. Also significant trails."
Guided adventures: White water rafting and zip lining are available through outfitters like West Virginia Adventures. "I went here and did some river rafting and and the zip line. It was a little on the pricey side but well worth it," shares Bren M.
What campers like
Free camping options: Army Camp and Glade Creek both offer no-cost camping with basic amenities. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free!" explains Rachel S. about Glade Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to see local animals. "We had plenty of room. The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in," shares Corda B., who also noted deer sightings at Army Camp.
River sounds: Campers frequently mention the calming background noise of flowing water. "The powerful drone of the New River never subsides," writes Dave V. about camping near the water.
Privacy between sites: The spacing between campsites is generous at several locations. "Even with 2-3 other groups there it still felt secluded with the sites distance from each other and the wooded area," notes a Stone Cliff camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds are narrow, unpaved, or steep. "It's a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper," reports Kristi D. from Summer Wind RV Park.
Limited services: Most campgrounds lack running water. "No drinking water, so bring your own. No hookups," warns Jean C. about Army Camp.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," notes Tucker B. about Army Camp.
Weather preparedness: The New River can flood quickly after rain. "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive," reports Dave V.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access at Pipestem: Children enjoy the water amenities at larger campgrounds. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," writes Molly F. about Pipestem RV Park & Campground.
Playground options: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. Julie M. from Brushcreek Falls RV Resort mentions "a very nice new swingset nearby."
Wildlife warnings: Be aware of nocturnal visitors. "There were about a half dozen skunks. Kinda kept me on edge," cautions Jeff E. about camping at Meador Campground.
Limited recreational equipment: Bring your own entertainment. "Not much open space; this only proves to be a problem if your dog loves to fetch as much as mine does," notes Gage W. about Glade Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary in proximity to neighbors. Eric H. notes about Brushcreek Falls: "Like a lot of private RV parks, the sites tend to be very close to each other."
Level parking availability: Many campgrounds have gravel pads for easier setup. "Our site was level. The pool was wonderful," reports Noel L. from Brushcreek Falls.
Road navigation challenges: Access roads can be difficult for larger rigs. "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," notes a different camper than the one quoted in the existing description.
Seasonal operations: Several rv campgrounds near Flat Top, West Virginia have limited operating seasons. Summer Wind RV Park is open "May 1 to Oct 15" according to their listing, while Shady Rest RV Park operates "All year" for those camping in winter months.
