The Monongahela National Forest surrounds Hambleton, West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences seasonal temperature shifts with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Camping options around Hambleton tend to be more rustic in national forest lands while private campgrounds offer increased amenities, particularly for RVers seeking full services.
What to do
Fly fishing access: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground sits directly on the river with multiple fishing spots accessible from camp. "The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," notes one visitor.
Hiking to Chimney Rock: Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort provides convenient access to hiking trails. "Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," according to a camper who appreciated the nearby recreational options.
Cave exploration: The region features underground attractions near camping areas. "Plenty to do in the immediate area, with the caverns, fishing, hiking, and climbing. Dolly Sods and Canaan Valley are also nearby," mentions a reviewer of Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, highlighting multiple activity options in a single area.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Five River Campground receives consistent praise for its layout. "The sites are large and level, but close to one another and open. Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," states one visitor about the RV sites near Hambleton, West Virginia.
Waterfront access: Riverside camping options provide direct water recreation. "We backed up to a large field (spot 3) and had a great view of the river! I didn't feel crowded at all!! Our two dogs swam in the river," reports a visitor at Five River Campground.
Reliable connectivity: Cell service and internet access vary widely around Hambleton. "Ended up staying 2 weeks as the wifi service is the best we have had on the road," notes a traveler who appreciated the reliable connection at their campground, a rarity in mountainous West Virginia.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The region experiences frequent rain showers requiring proper planning. "I chose a small cluster of trees beside the river so I could string a tarp and hammocks (it does seem to shower quite a bit in WV)," mentions a camper at Five River Campground.
Seasonal operations: Most facilities close during winter months. "Season is March to December," notes a reviewer about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, while some campgrounds operate year-round, providing limited winter camping options.
Limited privacy: Some campgrounds feature open layouts without natural screening. "The tent sites along the river do not offer much privacy from each other in the way of foliage or natural visual barriers—distance is your privacy," explains a tent camper describing the riverfront camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
River activities: Seneca Shadows offers family-friendly outdoor experiences. "Such a lovely spot! You can just roll in, set up & hit the most amazing trails!! Wonderful view of Seneca Rocks," writes a reviewer who enjoyed the direct access to recreational areas.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds provide affordable camping with amenities. "Firewood is abundant, good quality, and cheap. Not a whole lot in the way of amenities, but it's a nice facility," notes a visitor at Double G Campground, emphasizing the value-conscious experience.
Local attractions: Nearby facilities offer additional entertainment. "There's a wonderful park nearby that has a walking/biking trail, splash pad, and a large playground," mentions a family that stayed at Five River Campground, highlighting off-site activities for children.
Tips from RVers
Larger rig considerations: Smokey Bottom Campground provides access to recreational areas while accommodating RVs. "This campground was very close to hiking trails in the area and was close enough to Elkins to quickly run into town," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenient location.
Full hookup availability: Select campgrounds around Hambleton offer complete RV services. "Only 10 sites right on the river. Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable," reports a reviewer about the camping sites at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort.
Site selection strategy: Some campgrounds have distinctly different camping areas. "The A&B Loops are for tents or RVs with no electric service. The C-Loop has electricity," explains a visitor describing Seneca Shadows campground layout, helping RVers choose appropriate sites for their needs.
