Dispersed camping near Masontown, West Virginia offers backcountry experiences across the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 4,000 feet. The region's unique geology creates microclimates where spring conditions can persist well into summer at higher elevations. During winter and early spring, many access roads require vehicles with higher clearance as mud and snow can make travel difficult.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: From Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, campers can access trails leading to Blackwater Falls State Park about 4 miles away. "There are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that are tricker to see while driving... there's a stream that goes by some, the woods are beautiful. There are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park," notes Lillian R.
Winter camping adventures: For those prepared for cold weather, rustic camping sites remain accessible year-round. "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," reports Rhea B.
Fishing opportunities: The streams near dispersed sites provide good fishing conditions, particularly in spring and early summer. A camper at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground shared: "Nice camp sites, and good fishing," while another mentioned "a few friendly fishermen each day, sharing local knowledge."
What campers like
Remote backcountry immersion: Dolly Sods provides true wilderness without facilities. "No cell service, no car camping, no trail markers, no toilets, and no running water. It's the real deal. During the off season you can hike for days and not see another person," says Sean M. about Dolly Sods Backcountry.
Pine forest camping: The forested sites provide shade and natural ground cover. "We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping!" notes Michael H. about his experience at Canaan Loop Road.
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature stone fire rings built by previous campers. "We only drove down to the second site, but it was awesome! Big site, good fire ring, paths the walk right from the site. The moss was like walking on carpet," reports Justine I.
Rock formations: Several areas feature interesting geological formations within hiking distance. "The rocks on the trail may be a pain, but the formations and views from Raven's Ridge, Lion's Head and Bear Rocks rival the best," a camper shares about Dolly Sods.
What you should know
Private property boundaries: Some dispersed camping areas have unclear boundaries with private land. A camper at Gladwin Dispersed Camping advises: "Initially you do come to private land with several campsites and campers present. But if you go down the dirt road a little to the low water bridge you will find a wonderful site on the right with several fire pits."
Weather preparation: The high elevation areas experience unpredictable and rapidly changing conditions. "Definitely be prepared for high winds and rain. We hiked in in warm weather and once we reached the top of a long entrance road (where one trailhead was) we found snow," shares Lucille W.
Campsite availability: Summer weekends see heavy use at all dispersed sites. "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer," warns Leonard M. about Lower Glady.
Navigation skills: Unmarked trails require map and compass skills. "A good physical map and compass, the skills needed to use them, are vital here. There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing," cautions Sean M.
Tips for camping with families
Look for established sites: For family camping trips near Masontown, choose established fire rings with level ground. "The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky," notes Kevin C. about Lower Glady.
Plan for varied ecosystems: Bring clothing layers for kids as temperatures can vary significantly. "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana," says Ben.
Weekday arrival recommended: To secure good family camping spots, arrive mid-week. "No one bothered mom and I on Easter weekend. We pulled our 28 foot travel trailer in past I'd say ten other campsites that were taken," reports Joe W.
Carry water filters: No potable water exists at most rustic camping areas near Masontown, making water filters essential for families. "There was also a creek running on the side of the camp, so with a water filter and enough food, you could spend many days here," notes Jon N.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large RVs. At Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed, "Brushy Ridge Road is Forest Service Road 75 and is in decent condition. There are several pull off campsites along this road on the way up to Dolly Sods wilderness," according to Kelly G.
Level sites at Lower Glady: RVers report better conditions at designated sites. "Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large," reports Kevin C.
Winter access challenges: Snow and mud make winter RV camping difficult without proper preparation. "To start this review off, I drove in during a small snow storm, it was in the single digits for temp, and I woke up with about 8 inches on the ground," shares Jon N. about Lower Glady.
