Camping opportunities near Hillsboro, West Virginia span elevations from 2,000 to 3,500 feet, offering moderate summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The area sits within the Monongahela National Forest, which contains over 921,000 acres of public lands including both established campgrounds and dispersed camping options. Most Hillsboro-area campgrounds operate from April through October, with some closing earlier in December due to seasonal weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Moomaw: Visitors to Bolar Mountain Recreation Area can enjoy stocked fishing waters. "We've camped here for the second time. The campground Bolar Mountain Rec Area is on Lake Moomaw. We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access both times. Campground 2 site 53, has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim," notes one camper.
Mountain biking on park trails: Douthat State Park offers extensive trail systems for cyclists of all skill levels. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!"
Paddling on Greenbrier River: The 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail provides access points near several campgrounds. "The Greenbrier River was right at the back of our site. People were floating and fishing and paddling. The Greenbrier River Trail, an 80 mile long rail trail is just across the river, accessible two mile from the park, we rode our bikes to the trail."
What campers like
No cell service for digital detox: Multiple campgrounds in the area provide limited connectivity. A visitor to Morris Hill Campground mentioned, "Cell Phone Service is spotty also, as there is no pay phone at the campground either." Another camper at Bolar Mountain noted, "This place is amazing. I could stay here every weekend and not get tired of it. Warm water, fresh air, no service."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Forested campgrounds offer chances to see local fauna. One reviewer at Seneca State Forest shared, "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing."
Clear night skies for stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates excellent astronomy conditions. A camper at Williams River Sites appreciated the natural darkness: "Not to mention you're by the river with both of these sites so if you like to swim that's a plus."
What you should know
Limited amenities in some areas: Many campgrounds operate with basic facilities. At Watoga State Park's Beaver Creek Campground, visitors note, "Firewood and ice is available for purchase and there is a soda machine and laundry facilities on site."
Weather variability: Mountain elevations can experience significant temperature changes. "We arrived midweek, the first of May, so we did not reserve a site. The campground has 52 sites, so I thought we would have a good shot as a walk-in. No worries...we shared the campground with two other campers. The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything."
Reservation timing: Popular glamping near Hillsboro, West Virginia requires advance planning. A visitor to Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in Seneca State Forest advised, "You will need to reserve a spot far in advance...so don't leave it to the last minute."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families appreciate dedicated recreation areas. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site."
Swimming options: Kid-friendly water activities vary by location. "The lake swimming was fun (something I am not used to since I am from Florida). Lots of spiders around our site...but hey you are camping! Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn!"
Wildlife education: Animal sightings create learning opportunities. At Watoga State Park, one camper mentioned, "Perfect combo of shade and sun with deers grazing right next to your tent!!"
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger vehicles. At Babcock State Park, "The facilities were clean and well maintained. Limited large rig sites and roadways are very narrow."
Utility connections: Service hookups vary significantly across campgrounds. At Morris Hill, "There is a fresh water filling station here as well, if you wish to fill your camper/RV when you get there."
Road conditions: Mountain access can present challenges. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill."
