Tent campsites near Flat Top, West Virginia cluster around the New River basin at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating distinctive camping microclimates throughout the seasons. The region's tent camping options span from densely wooded sites to open riverside locations, with many campgrounds positioned near railroad tracks that remain active throughout the night. Ground conditions vary significantly by location, with sandy riverbank sites contrasting sharply with the rocky soil found at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bull Falls Campground offers excellent access to the New River basin. "You've struck gold here at Bull Falls Campground if you're looking to get away from it all," notes Stuart K., who recommends bringing "fishing gear, hunting rifle, hiking boots and you'll be on your way to one amazing experience out in nature." The area supports multiple bass species.
Water recreation: At East Shore Campground, visitors appreciate the combination of hiking and water activities. Craig B. simply states, "If you like hiking and fishing this is the place." The campground provides direct access to Bluestone Lake with boat-in camping options.
Climbing access: Tent sites provide convenient bases for rock climbing enthusiasts. At Stone Cliff Campground, Carrie J. explains, "There are so many things to come for and so many things to stay for! I've come here to climb and ended up fishing. I've come to fish and ended up hiking and climbing. There is no wrong turn here!"
What campers like
Secluded riverside settings: Many campers appreciate the private feel of Stone Cliff Campground. Jeremy H. describes it as a "Tucked away by the river past Thurmond. Great secluded sites. Trailhead for hiking from camp. A bit of a drive to visit any of the sites around New River but worth it to be away from it all."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions at many sites, Old Mill Campground receives positive reviews for maintenance. Linda F. reports, "Camp ground was clean, bathhouse was clean and neighbors were all spaced out pretty good. Staff was kind and helpful."
Lower off-season crowds: Fall and spring bring reduced camping pressure at most locations. At Meadow Creek Campground, Casey L. noted, "We thought we'd have a hard time finding a spot on a Friday night but it was less than half full the whole 4 nights we were there."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several tent camping locations sit near active rail lines. At Meadow Creek Campground, licia S. warns, "The coal trains run through at all hours of the night and blow their horns (earplugs)." Similarly, Casey L. notes trains "go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations."
Site accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds require physical effort to reach. At Stone Cliff Campground, Zac R. explains, "We had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site. My wife and I had brought our hatchback instead of our SUV- so our fault, but if this had been mentioned somewhere then we would have known."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Vault toilets are common but conditions differ widely. At Bluestone State Park, Jeff E. reports, "The bathhouse is open air over half of it. Had no soap or toilet paper and the toilets were all plugged up."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children. Mike T. shares about Bluestone State Park: "They had a swimming pool and it was clean. I loved the lake. Big and beautiful."
Campsite selection for children: When camping with kids, consider site location carefully. At Chestnut Creek Campground, Linda L. notes, "Stayed here 2 nights with all our children and grandchildren. We had a great couple days with rain at times. Site was large with lots of trees."
Wildlife encounters: Families should prepare for local wildlife. Kaylee F. warns about Stone Cliff: "We were hanging some hammock stapes up on our last evening and saw the largest spider I've ever seen in the hollow of one of the trees at the campsite. If spiders aren't your thing consider another site."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only restrictions: Several former RV campgrounds now prohibit larger vehicles. David explains about Meadow Creek Campground: "The ranger informed us someone who stayed here in a rv had a close call crossing the train tracks and now they have decided to make this campground a tent only place. Which is very unfortunate since this place is beautiful and the sites were big enough for rv and tent use."
Ground conditions for staking: Wind exposure affects tent stability at several locations. David continues about Meadow Creek: "The wind here is also very strong and without strong anchors could easily pull up your tent. We were having to restake the corners throughout our stay."
Alternative parking options: Some campers use alternative vehicles. At Stone Cliff Beach, Thomas M. notes: "You can camp here for free on first come first serve basis. Also can access by boat if taking a trip on the river. sandy sites. Not much nearby. You walk down a set a stairs to the sites."
