Tent camping opportunities around Morgantown, West Virginia span across three states, with options in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and neighboring Maryland. The region's elevation ranges from 900 to 2,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, while spring and fall can see overnight temperatures drop into the 40s, requiring campers to prepare for temperature variations.
What to do
Stream exploration: Big Run State Park Campground sites offer direct water access where campers can observe aquatic wildlife. According to Nathan S., "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish. So quiet and very little traffic. Tons of space between sites."
Cannabis-friendly activities: Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers a unique camping experience with specialized programming. Ashley notes, "This is a cannabis friendly campground that overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains. Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending."
Kayaking: The Savage River reservoir near Big Run State Park provides water recreation opportunities. Mark K. explains, "It is close to the Savage River reservoir, which is great for kayaking."
Hiking breaks: Set up base camp and explore local trail systems. One camper at Camp Ara mentioned, "We were pointed in the direction of the gorgeous Valley Falls which is only a few miles from camp."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites that prevent crowding. At Big Run State Park Campground, Katie H. reports, "The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds."
Natural white noise: Streamside camping provides ambient sounds that enhance sleep quality. Zoe H. mentions her Big Run experience featured a "beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!"
Clean facilities: Despite primitive settings, many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. At Camp Ara, campers can access shower facilities, with one reviewer noting, "On our second night after taking a HOT shower in one of the lodges we were offered a warm meal and even warmer company from one of the families running the site."
Wildlife viewing: Early risers can catch sunrise animal activities. At Rhododendron Camping Area, Emily M. suggests, "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!"
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Check recent reviews for facility status. Emily M. noted about Rhododendron Camping Area, "The bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Water sources can be unreliable: Plan to bring water or verify potability. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, Shari G. discovered, "The well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing."
Train noise disrupts sleep: Several campgrounds along river valleys have nearby train tracks. Dave V. warns about Round Bottom Camping Area, "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River...it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had."
Insect preparation essential: Wooded campsites near water attract insects. One camper at Big Run State Park mentioned, "There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful, but the mosquitos sucked."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water play areas: Kids enjoy safe stream access at certain sites. Andy C. reports about Big Run State Park, "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water."
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. Indian Creek Camplands permits pets, with Christopher M. noting it's a "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Cabin alternatives: When weather threatens, consider cabins. At Camp Ara, jenn C. mentions, "You can rent a cabin, camp in the woods, or rent a bunkroom or your group. Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing!"
Check hospitality levels: Some campgrounds offer extra attention for families. Kaitlin B. shares about Camp Ara, "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more? The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups available: Most tent camping areas near Morgantown have minimal RV amenities. Christopher M. from Indian Creek Camplands notes, "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven terrain. Andy C. found Big Run State Park accommodated their "26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Alternatives for larger rigs: Most campgrounds cannot accommodate big rigs. Nathan S. points out about Big Run State Park, "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park."
