Hambleton, West Virginia sits at the confluence of the Dry Fork and Black Fork rivers, creating the Cheat River in the heart of Monongahela National Forest. At an elevation of 1,631 feet, campers experience cooler mountain temperatures even in summer months, with nighttime lows often dropping into the 50s. The surrounding highlands offer primitive to full-hookup camping experiences across diverse terrain, with upland spruce forests contrasting with river valley camping options.
What to do
Hiking remote trails: At Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower, visitors access West Virginia's highest peak. "There is a picnic shelter that has picnic tables, no running water, but there is a pit toilet. We camped off the Huckleberry Trail, which has lots of camping spots off the trail. The forest is silent and beautiful, looks like it belongs out west in the PNW," shares Hannah V.
Fishing local waters: Shavers Fork river near Five River Campground offers quality fishing opportunities. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," notes T N T. Anglers should obtain a West Virginia fishing license before casting.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall networks exist within 30-45 minutes of Hambleton. "There are waterfalls in many areas around Canaan. Blackwater falls, Douglas falls, Elakala falls is the 4 falls of Shays Run, Falls of Seneca, Red falls, the list goes on. Our favorite was Elakala, a great hike down blackwater canyon and view of some beautiful falls," explains Aimee L.
Seasonal star-gazing: The elevation and distance from urban areas creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "It gets darker than dark and the stars go on forever," shares Ricki F. about the Spruce Knob area. Bryan G. adds, "Spruce Knob Lake was a great spot for Milky Way star gazing."
What campers like
River proximity: Revelle's River Resort offers premium river-front camping experiences. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river and the seasonal campers spread out around," writes Kevin C.
Easy town access: Unlike many isolated camping areas, some Hambleton-area campgrounds provide convenient urban access. "It is a pretty level area so riding bicycles around the campground and even into town are doable," notes Erica M. about Five River Campground. "Within five minutes a local grocery store," adds Janet C.
Clean facilities: Blackwater Falls State Park Campground maintains high standards for bathhouses and common areas. "The shower and bathrooms were spotless. Some sites were closer together than others but we didn't mind since we just had a tent," writes Sienna L. Another camper adds, "The bath houses are MUCH cleaner than Pipestem & checked often."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report regular wildlife encounters. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," notes Dave V. about Canaan Valley. Tracy S. adds, "Great clean campground with full hookups. Lots of deer to see."
What you should know
Seasonal temperature variations: Even in summer, mountain elevations mean prepared campers bring appropriate gear. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises Kellie A. at Blackwater Falls.
Limited cell coverage: While some campgrounds offer WiFi, cellular service varies dramatically. "We had cell service since we were right outside of town which is hard to find in WV," notes Jamie R. In contrast, at Seneca Rocks, "Be forwarded this entire area has no cell service due to the Green radio telescopes."
Flooding risk in river areas: Yokums Vacationland and Princess Snowbirds Indian Village has beautiful riverside sites that require weather awareness. "I couldn't figure out why I was the only one picking a choice spot by the river. The first night was great...I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up...and the water level began rising...Later I learned this area is prone to flooding," cautions Kelly G.
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging site layouts. "Choose your site wisely! There's 64 campsites, I believe they are all electric. There's water at the bathhouse which is inconvenient. You can't drive close to the bathhouse, There's pedestrian paths," advises Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreational structures for children. "A kid's playground is situated beside (separated by a field) primitive tent sites 1 & 2," notes Dave V. about camping in Canaan Valley. Chris S. adds, "Older playground, but good enough for kiddos. Mini golf course, rock wall, and civil war reenactments when we came."
Swimming options: Luxury glamping in Hambleton, West Virginia often includes water recreation. "The outside pool is large and heated. There is an inside pool and hot tub, small fee for camping guest," shares Aimee L. about Canaan Valley Resort amenities.
Kid-friendly hiking: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers accessible trail systems. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage," notes Jen V. Mike B. adds, "The grounds had paths everywhere and were well kept. I didn't feel like I was walking in the dirt or through someone's campsite to get to the bathroom or the playground for the kids."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds incorporate nature education. "There's a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent," says Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls State Park's additional amenities for families.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground offers various power options. "There are full hookups. Lots of trails and wildlife," shares Tracy S. Another camper adds, "All sites have full hook ups and a paved pad. The sites are far apart."
Leveling challenges: Mountainous terrain means uneven sites in some campgrounds. "Almost all sites are walk-ups, which is NOT noted on their site. Also, almost all sites are on a hill. The pictures do not accurately show this. We had site 33 (probably the worst site). The entire site was on a slant and covered in rocks," warns Sheila P.
Dump station locations: RVers should note servicing locations. "The dump station is in a weird spot and the only water available is the same used for flushing," explains Kevin E. about Blackwater Falls State Park.
Electric hookup placement: RV site design varies considerably between campgrounds. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," notes Kevin E. about Blackwater Falls, a consideration when planning your upscale glamping experience near Hambleton.
