Dispersed camping options around Kerens, West Virginia provide access to the Middle Fork River and Shavers Fork with elevation ranges from 1,750 to 2,500 feet throughout the Monongahela National Forest. The area's camping season typically runs mid-April through October, with higher elevations experiencing frost as early as September. Water temperatures in local rivers remain cool even during summer months, rarely exceeding 70°F in the hottest periods.
What to do
Fishing the waterways: Several campgrounds offer excellent fishing access, particularly for trout and smallmouth bass. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, campers note the fishing quality: "We stayed at the last site with the cliff over hang and it was magical... Several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming," writes Sandra B. Anglers should bring proper West Virginia fishing licenses.
Hiking woodland trails: The region offers various hiking difficulties within short drives. At Bear Heaven Campground, visitors can explore unique rock formations. "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders," notes Adam W. Just a few miles from Bear Heaven, visitors can access Bickles Knob firetower for panoramic views.
Water recreation: Tubing and swimming spots can be found at most riverside camping areas. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," writes T N T about Five River Campground. During summer months, many families bring their own tubes for floating sections of the rivers, with some campgrounds offering rentals or shuttle services.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spaciousness at certain campgrounds near Kerens. At Audra State Park Campground, "The campsites themselves don't offer a great deal of privacy, but during the week or driving rain...you don't have to concern yourself with neighbors," writes Dave V. For more seclusion, Gandy Creek offers "sites dispersed over about 2.5 miles" according to Joshua H.
Evening wildlife: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground, "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," reports Dave V. Multiple reviewers mention frequent wildlife sightings as a highlight of camping in the region.
Fall colors: September and October transform the landscape with vibrant foliage. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises Kellie A. about camping at Blackwater Falls State Park. The higher elevations around Kerens typically see color changes beginning in late September, with peak colors in mid-October.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain elevations mean rapidly changing conditions. "It rained 19 of the 21 days we camped there, but it was still enjoyable," notes Dave V. about Audra State Park. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecast, especially for spring and fall trips.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating narrow, winding roads. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, "This is a very oddly laid out campground... The pull throughs are too close to backin sites, so if you come in to pull through, you may have to ask your neighbor to move his vehicle," cautions Cynthia K. Check road restrictions before bringing large vehicles.
Seasonal limitations: Off-season camping options are limited. "To start this review off, I drove in during a small snow storm, it was in the single digits for temp, and I woke up with about 8 inches on the ground," reports Jon N. about camping at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground. Many water systems at established campgrounds are winterized from November through March.
Tips for camping with families
River swimming spots: Families with children can find safe swimming areas at select riverside campgrounds. At Five River Campground, one family noted it was "amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it. We figured the river would be a crowded place since the campground was nearly full and it was hot but we were pleasantly surprised that most of the week we were the only family on the river!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. According to Elaine L., Audra State Park has "a decent bath house and playground. We plan on going up early in the morning hoping to snag a spot." Arrive early during summer weekends as these family-friendly sites fill quickly.
Family-friendly hiking: Look for shorter trails with interesting features. About Audra State Park, Dave V. mentions "Audra has a nice short trail loop (Rock Cliff trail) in the campground that takes you up onto a small bluff. Enjoyable, picturesque, but brief." The terrain offers natural climbing opportunities for active children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full connections are concentrated at specific campgrounds. At Revelle's River Resort, Todd C. describes "Very well run clean campgrounds. We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food." Always confirm your specific site's hookup capabilities when booking.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. According to Ron at Stuart Recreation Area, "Nice private camping areas more well suited to tents than RV. Most of the sites are very out of level." Bring extra leveling blocks for mountain camping.
Site orientation issues: Some campgrounds have unusual layouts affecting RV positioning. Kevin E. notes about Blackwater Falls State Park that "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side." Bringing extension cords and extra water hose length helps address these configuration challenges.
