Free camping options provide alternatives to developed RV parks near Jumping Branch, West Virginia. The area sits within the New River Gorge region at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet, creating varied camping experiences with significant temperature drops after sunset. Camp access often involves navigating single-lane roads with limited passing space for vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: New River Gorge offers species-specific fishing experiences. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," notes Jean C. from Army Camp.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. At Glade Creek Campground, "Glade Creek Trail follows an old RR bed with easy terrain. Being early in the spring, there was still some deadfall across parts of the trail that required some maneuvering and even though it is a raised old narrow gauge RR bed, it still got muddy," explains one camper.
Water activities: Sites near rivers offer swimming and rafting access. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," shares Molly F. from Pipestem RV Park & Campground.
What campers like
River access: Many sites feature direct water access. "It's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river. I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," according to Tucker B. from Army Camp.
Campsite spacing: Less crowded areas provide more privacy. At Stone Cliff Campground, "There are 4 nice spots down on the beach and two up a small hill close to the parking lot and trailhead. We stayed at #6. Had plenty of space and were far enough away to not hear our neighbors."
Free camping options: Several campgrounds offer no-cost camping. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," reports Rachel S. about Army Camp.
What you should know
Weather considerations: River areas can experience rapid changes in water levels. One visitor at Glade Creek Campground noted: "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive...30 ft from our tent pad. Even though it had not rained in 18 hours, the New River continued to swell."
Noise factors: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds. At Meadow Creek Campground, "the multi-track railroad right next to the campground. They go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations."
Water availability: Most primitive sites lack running water. "Note: vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River...which I wouldn't recommend," cautions a camper at Army Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Several campgrounds offer river access for water play. At Meador Campground, "The campground is very quiet and well spaced. There is an outdoor pool within walking distance of campground but the playgrounds need upgraded. Lots of space to run around for the kids."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple areas offer animal sightings. "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay," notes Jay N. about Meador Campground.
Biking opportunities: Paved areas accommodate young cyclists. "All the roads are paved making it easy for the little ones to ride bikes," explains Michael about Meador Campground.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have tight access routes. At Shady Rest RV Park, "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."
Site leveling: Many RV campsites require leveling equipment. "We stayed here for a night on a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking," reports Molly F. about Pipestem RV Park & Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Some RV parks operate limited schedules. At Summer Wind RV Park, "Nice level Campground, easy access from I-64, AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars. Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings. No on-site management, you have to txt for reservations."
