The Monongahela National Forest surrounds Hendricks, West Virginia, with dense woodland and mountain terrain at elevations between 1,700 and 4,863 feet. Weather conditions often change rapidly here, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than lower elevations. Campgrounds in this region typically feature riverside locations, providing access to multiple waterways including Shavers Fork and Cheat River.
What to do
Mountain biking near Blackwater Falls: The trail system offers varied terrain for riders of all levels within a 10-mile drive from Hendricks. A visitor noted, "The trails are scattered throughout the park. Some are foot traffic only, others permit bicycles. The Back Hollow Trail was predominantly a mown grass trail but occasional wooded sections were rocky two-track."
Fishing at Tygart Lake State Park: About an hour's drive from Hendricks, the 10-mile-long lake provides ample fishing opportunities. "Been camping here since the 90's. No hookups. Spotty phone service. Boat launch is close to campground. There's also a nearby shooting range," reports a regular visitor.
Hiking to observation points: The highest elevation in West Virginia at Spruce Knob offers spectacular views from its observation tower. "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," shares a reviewer.
What campers like
River access for water activities: Five River Campground provides direct water access for tubing and swimming. "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! We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Canaan Valley Resort State Park, animal sightings are common throughout the camping areas. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," writes one camper, while another notes, "The campground is absolutely beautiful. There are full hookups. Lots of trails and wildlife."
Dark skies for stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional conditions for night sky viewing. According to a Swallow Falls visitor, "The campground was so close to the nature that we wanted to see. The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!"
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations create unpredictable conditions year-round. "It is much cooler at this elevation, even in the summer...and the winds on the summit cut through like a knife," warns a Spruce Knob camper.
Cell service limitations: Signal varies widely across the region. Some campgrounds offer better connectivity than others. At Five River Campground, a visitor reported, "We ended up staying 2 weeks as the wifi service is the best we have had on the road."
Flood risk in low-lying areas: Yokums Vacationland campsites near water can be problematic during heavy rain. "I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising. I was so scared I went and slept in my car somewhere else. Later I learned this area is prone to flooding."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Canaan Valley Resort offers family-friendly amenities close to natural attractions. "There is a huge field that the kids enjoyed kite flying! The staff at the store/check in are very friendly and helpful with area attractions!" notes a family camper.
Swimming options for kids: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for children. A visitor to Tygart Lake State Park shared, "The lake was pretty but there was a ton trash all around it, such a shame. I had to pick up a bunch of pieces of glass on the shore of the campground so my dog wouldn't get hurt."
Tent site selection: Choose sites with adequate space for family activities. At Swallow Falls State Park, a camper reported, "The tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great. 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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be limited in this region. At Coopers Rock State Forest, an RVer noted, "The RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently. The spots were well spaced out and pretty spacious, the site we were in had electric hookup for 50a/30a/20a but no water at the site but there was water near the bathroom area."
Site layout considerations: Some campgrounds have unusual site configurations. "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," cautions a Blackwater Falls visitor.
Seasonal RV access: Certain roads and sites may be challenging during specific seasons. "Road from Rt. 33 near Harman will be gravel and windy after the first few miles. The other (better) choice is from Rt.33/28 between Seneca Rocks and Circleville. This road to Spruce Knob is paced -although steep and windy," advises an experienced RVer exploring glamping options near Hendricks, West Virginia.
