Best Campgrounds near Hillsboro, WV

Public lands surrounding Hillsboro, West Virginia provide multiple camping options within the Monongahela National Forest and state park systems. Watoga State Park, located along the Greenbrier River, features two developed campgrounds—Riverside and Beaver Creek—with both tent and RV sites. Lake Sherwood Recreation Area offers lakeside camping with spacious, secluded sites. The region supports a mix of accommodation types including traditional tent camping, RV sites with hookups, rental cabins, and primitive campsites along the 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail, which passes through remote forest areas and small towns.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through late October or early December. Watoga State Park's campgrounds remain open from early April through late December, while Lake Sherwood is available year-round. The area experiences limited cell service due to its location within the National Radio Quiet Zone, with most campgrounds offering only weak WiFi near facilities. Water and electric hookups vary by campground, with many sites providing electric but requiring campers to fill water tanks at central locations. Weather in the mountainous terrain can change rapidly, particularly during summer thunderstorms. A camper noted, "Heavy rainstorms brought down numerous trees across the Greenbrier River Trail during our trip, but State Park employees worked diligently to clear the trail."

The Greenbrier River serves as a focal point for recreational activities, with several campgrounds providing direct river access for fishing, swimming, and paddling. Hikers and bikers benefit from extensive trail networks, including the rail-to-trail Greenbrier River Trail with its primitive campsites positioned at regular intervals. These sites feature amenities like tent pads, pit latrines, and sometimes Adirondack-style shelters. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region. One visitor remarked, "Campers will see deer walk through sites, and this is bear country, so proper food storage is essential." Campsites at Lake Sherwood offer views of the water and access to swimming areas, while Watoga State Park combines riverfront camping with extensive hiking options and recreational facilities. The relative remoteness and natural setting appeal to those seeking a quiet outdoor experience away from urban environments.

Best Camping Sites Near Hillsboro, West Virginia (130)

    1. Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park

    10 Reviews
    Hillsboro, WV
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 799-4087

    $23 - $50 / night

    "The river is beautiful, the hiking excellent, and the fantastic rail trail is right there. The area has so much to offer - Bear Town, Cranberry, Falls - it’s all wild wonderful West Virginia!!"

    "Another terrific park in West Virginia. So much to do. The sites accommodate everything from tents to large fifth wheels. "

    2. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    Hot Springs, VA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 279-4144

    $16 - $85 / night

    "I stayed on campground 1 on a lake side site with access to the lake, the views from my tent were breathtaking! The campground is clean, it has shower and flushable toilets."

    "The Lake is wonderful. There are 3-4 actual campgrounds. One is more for large groups like boy/girl scout troops. Easy access to the lake from marina or each campground."

    3. Beaver Creek Campground — Watoga State Park

    4 Reviews
    Buckeye, WV
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 799-4087

    $23 - $26 / night

    "Campsite 2 is across the path from the check in point and you are quite on display but on the other hand you have WiFi signal and are close to water and perfect distance from the campground."

    "So much to see and do, a lot of history and nearby attractions to make the most of being in the area. No cell service is a plus, battery last longer for photos."

    4. Lake Sherwood

    7 Reviews
    Hot Springs, VA
    14 miles
    Website

    $20 - $100 / night

    "The campground is butted up against Sherwood lake and a small mtn ridge range that divides West Virginia and Virginia. "

    "We visited the Pine Run camping Area of Lake Sherwood Campground in July 2016. We stayed with my sister’s family on sites 48 & 49 and they were perfect pair sites to share."

    5. Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite

    1 Review
    Buckeye, WV
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 799-4087

    "Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite, Watoga, WV West Virginia's Greenbrier River Trail**  (GRT) **stretches from its Northern Terminus at the Cass Railroad Station, Stumptown"

    6. Tea Creek Campground

    4 Reviews
    Marlinton, WV
    14 miles
    Website

    "Campground is always clean and access is directly off the scenic highway. Several hiking trails nearby. First photo is 100 yards from the campground."

    "Wonderful location and very clean and well kept sites."

    7. Morris Hill Campground

    10 Reviews
    Hot Springs, VA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 279-4144

    $18 - $65 / night

    "This is a great camp located near lake Moomaw! Right off the road with easy access to the sites. First come first serve but this particular camp has a lot of sites!"

    "The campground is located close to two boat landings. "

    8. Monongahela National Forest Blue Bend Campground

    4 Reviews
    White Sulphur Springs, WV
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 536-2144

    $20 - $50 / night

    "It is beautifully tucked in the mountains. No cellphone service, 21 rustic sites (no water/electric), but full of adventure. The bath/shower house is always well kept."

    "Great area, close to amenities if needed. Quite. Can swim and fish"

    9. Day Run Campground

    1 Review
    Marlinton, WV
    11 miles
    Website

    "There are 2 restrooms located in this camping area with vault toilets only. Take your own toilet paper if campground isn’t busy because it doesn’t get maintained daily and we ran out."

    10. Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite

    1 Review
    Hillsboro, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 799-4087

    "Between Rorer and Renick, WV)**

    **Bikepacking West Virginia's Greenbrier River Trail is a delightfully peaceful adventure!"

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Recent Reviews near Hillsboro, WV

608 Reviews of 130 Hillsboro Campgrounds


  • Irene C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Ace Adventure Resort

    Everything in one place

    Great place. The bathroom/showers were not great but I’m told they are updating those this summer. We came during Bridge Day but I would definitely come back in the summer.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Chestnut Creek Campground

    Great Spot

    This is the spot to be if you're visiting the NRG area and want a chill experience as opposed to the party atmosphere that goes on at the outfitters. Sites are primitive with plenty of trees for and shade and hammocks. The owner is super nice and very helpful.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Babcock State Park Campground

    Spacious campground. Near RiverGorge National Park

    The facilities were clean and well maintained. Babcock State Park has access to trails, a scenic drive, grist mill, and souvenir store. WIFI is slow but there is a WiFi lounge at park store. No food store or restaurants nearby. Limited large rig sites and roadways are very narrow.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Grandview Sandbar Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    Great area!

    This was near the water with pit toilets available but not in good condition. Areas to fish and good camping areas spaced apart. Friday night and there was only a few campers. If it’s full glade creek is four miles up the road and our personal favorite. So plenty of options and both great spots!

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Glade Creek Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    New favorite!

    This area is our favorite we have been in all of the eastern states. So the sites all have fire pits and picnic tables and there’s tons of wood around to burn. There’s two pit toilet restrooms on both sides of the campground and a full area by the water for walk in tent camping. Boat ramp for anyone wanting to kayak and a big beach area to play in the water so perfect for my dog and kid. No one was around so we had the place to ourselves but each area is well spaced.

  • SkywaystoHighways.com Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Babcock State Park Campground

    All the Amenities and then some!

    We truly enjoyed our stay at this park. Its peacefully serene setting was exactly what we needed after a weekend long festival. Ya just can’t beat a free hot shower with great water pressure and affordable laundry facilities! Ya know?! Nice trails to forage and nearby Gristmill to top it all off. If we’d had the time, we would’ve stayed an extra night.

  • TangoRomeo 8.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Sherwood Lake WV

    Lake Sherwood Dispersed Camping

    Around a dozen sites with Rick fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only. These are located along the road to Lake Sherwood in Neola WV off Rt. 92. First come first serve. Lake Sherwood Day use recreation area with seasonal pay sites is located at the end of the road. All within Monongahela National Forest

  • Brac S.
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Gauley Tailwaters Campground — Gauley River National Recreation Area

    Don’t understand the positive reviews

    We headed here based on the reviews, there were other campers that were there for rafting (Sept release season) but camping was literally a parking lot with fire pits around it. We stayed just up the road at Battle Run, which was a beautiful place (paid of course).


Guide to Hillsboro

Camping near Hillsboro, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking trails at Douthat State Park Campground, noting, "We hiked this but the waterfall was just a trickle when we were there!"
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, offer great fishing spots. One visitor mentioned, "Our neighbor was catching nice fish out in his boat."
  • Swimming: If you're looking to cool off, check out the swimming areas at places like Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins. A reviewer said, "The beach was nice, we definitely enjoyed it."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One visitor at Seneca State Forest said, "The views are stunning from the site and trails."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds, such as Greenbrier State Forest, offer roomy sites. A camper noted, "The sites are well-appointed, well-maintained, wooded, and peaceful."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate the helpfulness of campground staff. At Watoga State Park Riverside Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Staff was also quite friendly and available."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gauley Tailwaters Campground, have basic facilities. A visitor shared, "There are bathrooms and tap water, but no electrical or showers."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited or no cell service in many areas. A camper at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area noted, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Douthat State Park Campground is open from May to September.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A family at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins appreciated the space, saying, "The campsites themselves are roomy, plenty of space!"
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Watoga State Park Riverside Campground mentioned, "The park has a lot of hiking trails and a lake with boats for rent."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with plenty of snacks. A visitor at Morris Hill Campground noted, "There is a small general store that sells some things and gas but it's not a real grocery."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Lake Sherwood mentioned, "You can park right next to your tent."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many campgrounds, like Gauley Tailwaters Campground, do not have electric hookups. A camper said, "You may see many white water rafters here for this reason."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the local scenery. A visitor at Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse shared, "The camping is perfect, the lake is gorgeous."

Camping near Hillsboro, West Virginia, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're with family or friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Hillsboro?

Hillsboro offers several excellent camping options in the surrounding area. Babcock State Park Campground is highly rated for its spectacular park setting featuring the iconic grist mill, which is the most photographed location in West Virginia. For a lakeside experience, Lake Sherwood offers beautiful campsites with many directly on the water, perfect for fishing enthusiasts. The campground sits against a mountain ridge dividing West Virginia and Virginia, providing a scenic backdrop for your camping adventure.

What amenities are available at Hillsboro campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Hillsboro offer various amenities to enhance your stay. Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park provides beautiful river access, excellent hiking trails, and proximity to the rail trail. Both tent and RV camping options are available, and the park also offers cabin accommodations. At Battle Run, campers can enjoy facilities supporting multiple outdoor activities including hiking, rock climbing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, white water rafting, and paddle boarding. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities such as restrooms and water access, with some offering electrical hookups for RVs.

When is the best season for camping in Hillsboro?

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best camping experience around Hillsboro. Moncove Lake State Park Campground showcases beautiful scenery during these months, though it's located off the beaten path requiring travel on country roads. Summer provides ideal conditions for water activities at Greenbrier River Trail access points, which are particularly popular for bikepacking adventures. Fall brings spectacular foliage colors to the mountains, while spring offers blooming wildflowers. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited and roads can be challenging due to mountain weather conditions.