Camping opportunities near Hillsboro, West Virginia sit at elevations ranging from 2,000-4,500 feet in the Allegheny Mountains, experiencing cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. The region falls within the Monongahela National Forest which covers over 921,000 acres of diverse terrain with camping options ranging from established RV parks to primitive tent sites.
What to do
Lake activities at Summersville Lake: Visitors can swim, fish, kayak and boat on this 2,700-acre lake with 60 miles of shoreline. "The camping is perfect, the lake is gorgeous, and the memories we've made over all these years can never be forgotten!" notes a visitor at Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse.
Hiking on Glade Creek Trail: This trail follows an old railroad bed with relatively easy terrain. "The camp is steps away from the Glade Creek Trail and the New River Gorge. The flowing Gorge can always be heard, the low rumble is peaceful at night," according to a camper at Glade Creek Campground.
Rail trail biking: The Greenbrier River Trail offers 80 miles of cycling on a converted rail trail. A visitor at Watoga State Park mentioned, "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
Riverside camping sites: Sites along water offer both recreation and natural ambiance. "The Riverside loop... the Greenbrier River was right at the back of our site. People were floating and fishing and paddling," shared a camper at Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park.
Digital disconnection: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service, creating a true escape. One 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."
Scenic mountain vistas: The surrounding Allegheny Mountains provide backdrop for many campsites. "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," according to a visitor.
What you should know
Limited hookups in forest campgrounds: Many national forest campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Summit Lake Campground, a camper noted, "Great Campground, for tent campers there are vaulted toilets that are normally clean! The only downside is that during peak times there were a bunch of sites with generators running all night."
RV reservation systems vary: Some rv sites near Hillsboro, West Virginia use unique booking systems. One camper at Summer Wind RV Park mentioned, "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine."
Road access challenges: Some campground roads can be difficult for larger vehicles. A visitor to Shady Rest RV Park warned, "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. A reviewer noted that Summersville Lake Retreat has "a great playground too for the kids. Just bring hammocks or extra padding to sleep. Super friendly and quiet place."
Swimming opportunities: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. At Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, a camper shared, "We drove almost 5 hours from Pittsburgh to check it out and it was SO worth it! There's a separate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers chances to see native animals. "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," mentioned a camper at Summer Wind RV Park, while another at Glade Creek reported, "Heard a Barred Owl at night."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Hillsboro provide complete RV amenities. A visitor at Elk River Camp and RV Park shared, "Super friendly camp host. He met us and drove us to the camp park because it was so dark. Spacious sites, and he is making amazing improvements to the park."
Connectivity information: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. A camper at Summer Wind RV Park reported, "Nice level Campground, easy access from I-64, AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars. Starlink access was excellent as there is not a single tree to obstruct the view!"
Leveling and site conditions: Many RV sites near Hillsboro require some adjustment. At Shady Rest RV Park, one visitor noted, "These are full hook up sites, very affordable and great proximity to the mid and lower areas of New River Gorge National Park. It's definitely a no frills location. Some permanent sites mixed in but everyone was very respectful and nice."
