Camping near Hendricks, West Virginia takes place in steep mountainous terrain with elevations that produce cooler microclimates across the region. The Monongahela National Forest's diverse ecosystems span from river valleys at 1,700 feet to alpine-like conditions at higher elevations approaching 4,000 feet. Temperatures in this region can drop 20 degrees from daytime highs, even during summer camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 15 miles from Hendricks at Horseshoe Recreation Area, the Cheat River provides excellent catch-and-release fishing. "There are vault toilets and some flush toilets. No cell service (Verizon). Sites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and lantern post."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades can be reached via short hikes from campsites. At Blackwater Falls State Park, "There's a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent. Skiing must be very popular in the winter."
Bird watching: Spring migration hotspot throughout the region, particularly in higher elevation areas. "We were thrilled to visit when 'Bird Banding' is taking place and enjoyed searching for migrating birds caught in the netting on the east side of the road opposite the campground."
Berry picking: July through September at several high-elevation locations. "Bear Rock and Dolly Sods for beautiful views and delicious berry picking (take empty clean milk jugs for easy picking buckets). Also great hiking here. Take a backpack of snacks, water and a cooler for lunch."
What campers like
Clear mountain rivers: The waterways near camping areas provide natural cooling during summer months. At Five River Campground, "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it. We figured the river would be a crowded place since the campground was nearly full and it was hot but we were pleasantly surprised that most of the week we were the only family on the river!"
Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "With no ambient light, the night skies are amazing...though cloud cover always seem to plague my visits at night. Though one evening we drove down toward Bear Rocks and laid in an open field to stargaze one evening to enjoy a wonderful light show from shooting stars."
Local art communities: Several small towns within 30 minutes offer cultural attractions. "Spent the day in Thomas looking at local art & antiques. The evening in Davis eating at hellbender burritos. Hiked some cool trails in the park and to see the falls."
Mountain vistas: Multiple overlooks accessible from camping areas provide long-range views. "Seneca Shadows Campground, Parsons WV...a hidden oasis! The campground is a short drive from Seneca Rock. Wind back into the woods for camping in a quaint quite setting (A-D) or camp in the meadowlands with Seneca Rock in the background."
What you should know
Unpredictable weather patterns: Mountain conditions change rapidly regardless of season. At Red Creek Campground, "Know that it will likely rain on you in Dolly Sods, so always bring rain gear. Also realize, that with climate and conditions similar to the Canadian Tundra, temperatures and winds vary and fluctuate often, any time of year."
Limited cell coverage: Most campgrounds lack reliable service. "No cell service (Verizon). Sites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and lantern post."
Rough access roads: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved routes. "There is a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there. My Subaru Forester didn't have any issues, but if you're driving an RV or have a trailer, you may have a struggle."
Seasonal operating periods: Many sites close during winter. "With a season of Mid-April through the beginning of December, be assured that weather is always a factor. Family has been thwarted at Thanksgiving by unpassable snow without a 4x4."
Muddy trail conditions: Higher elevation areas often remain wet year-round. "It is SO WET. I'm talking mud up to our knees. We were prepared to be wet, but this was totally unavoidable and by day 3 our feet were soaked beyond belief."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings provide best animal sightings. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground, "There are full hookups. Lots of trails and wildlife."
Swimming holes: Natural water features provide safer areas for children. "There is a huge field that the kids enjoyed kite flying! There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore! Someone saw a black bear on the trail (we did not)! Beautiful birds with tons of color!"
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer structured recreation. "You have access to the pool at the resort (near the hotel). Older playground, but good enough for kiddos. Mini golf course, rock wall, and civil war reenactments when we came."
Kid-friendly trails: Multiple short hiking routes suitable for younger campers. "We spent three days in June and experienced afternoon rain showers daily, but arranged our hikes and bikes around them."
Tips from RVers
Limited turning space: Many campgrounds have tight access roads. "Big/long RV's (driven or pulled) have difficulty navigating this narrow, curvy campground road pocked with rocky outcroppings. Park in the day use parking by the bridge or picnic area and scout it out first to avoid frustration and personal property damage."
Site orientation issues: Some campgrounds have poorly designed hookup placement. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side. The dump station is in a weird spot and the only water available is the same used for flushing."
Off-grid preparation: For dispersed camping, self-sufficiency is essential. At Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close in winter, but alternatives exist. "There are numerous disbursed camping sites at this location. We arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty. The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen."
