Dispersed camping near Glenville, West Virginia ranges from primitive riverside sites along back roads to trailhead camping areas within driving distance. The region sits at elevations between 700-1,200 feet within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, creating varied terrain that affects site accessibility. Most free camping areas flood during spring runoff, making late summer through fall the optimal camping season.
What to do
Fly fishing adventures: The catch-and-release waters near Elk River Dispersed camping offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. "The area where we camped is catch and release only! Please be respectful of the river and rules. Water levels were pretty low, but was nice to just sit by the river, listen to the sounds and relax," reports one camper.
Trail exploration: Visitors to Kinderhook Horse Trail can access multiple maintained trails suitable for day hikes. "The Kinderhook trail was overgrown. The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," notes a recent visitor who explored the trail system.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities at campsites near water sources. "Nice trails. Seem to be well maintained," reports one camper about the potential for spotting native wildlife while hiking the paths at Kinderhook.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting of riverside camping. "We set up camp right next to Rose Run, just East of the closed off bridge. Along this road you will see areas to pull off where people have set up fire rings," explains a camper who visited Elk River.
Accessible water sources: Kinderhook provides a reliable water source even during dry conditions. "Has a small hand pump water spigot," notes one camper, highlighting this practical amenity not found at many other dispersed sites in the region.
Basic facilities: Some dispersed camping areas offer minimal but appreciated amenities. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots. Has no flush vault toilet," reports a camper, appreciating the basic facilities available.
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful planning. "This is a dirt road so not for everyone to travel down. But we did travel on bikes so it is not horrible," shares a camper about their experience reaching the Elk River camping area.
Visitor traffic patterns: Some locations experience unexpected visitor patterns. "People coming and going every 15 minutes ish. Some folks pull in stare at you for a few seconds then leave," warns one camper about their experience at Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Self-sufficiency required: Come prepared with all necessary supplies. "This is a dispersed camping area so be self sufficient," advises a visitor to Elk River, emphasizing the lack of facilities and services at most sites in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for safety: Choose locations with adequate space between your camp and road traffic. "The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit," notes one camper about considerations for family camping at Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Insect preparation: Pack appropriate repellents and protective clothing during warmer months. "There was a lot of bees, yellow jackets," reports a camper, highlighting the need for insect management strategies when camping with children.
Space limitations: Most sites accommodate only small groups. "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," advises a visitor about the limited camping space available at trailhead areas.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs face significant limitations at most dispersed sites. "Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," explains a visitor describing the space constraints at Kinderhook.
Parking considerations: Designated parking areas may have specific restrictions. "Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only)," advises a camper about the parking situation at Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Camp setup logistics: Prepare for primitive conditions without standard RV amenities. "Our camp area apparently was well used with many beer cans and spent shell casings. There is not a ton of traffic on this road but since the site is close to the road you will hear some vehicles driving by," reports an Elk River visitor about site conditions to expect.
