Best Dispersed Camping near Keyser, WV

Dispersed camping near Keyser, West Virginia includes several free primitive sites across the Monongahela National Forest, with notable areas like Dolly Sods Backcountry, Canaan Loop Road, and Brushy Ridge Road. These public lands permit no-fee camping without reservations, particularly along forest service roads and wilderness areas. Campers seeking backcountry experiences will find established dispersed sites with fire rings at locations like Lower Glady Dispersed Campground and Squirrel Gap Road, while more remote options exist throughout the Dolly Sods Wilderness for those willing to hike in.

Access to many dispersed camping areas requires careful navigation on unpaved forest roads. Canaan Loop Road features multiple pull-off sites but may demand high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions. Brushy Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 75) maintains decent conditions with several unmarked campsites along the route. Most areas lack amenities like running water, trash service, or maintained restrooms, though Lower Glady does provide vault toilets. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and campers must practice leave-no-trace principles, particularly in heavily used areas like Red Creek where improper waste disposal has been reported.

The region's dispersed camping areas offer diverse landscapes from high-elevation meadows to forested creek-side settings. Dolly Sods Backcountry provides a unique ecosystem that reviewers describe as reminiscent of "Canadian Tundra" with varied terrain and abundant wildlife. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Canaan Loop Road sites provide access to nearby hiking trails and Blackwater Falls State Park. Campers note the seclusion available even during busy periods at some locations. As one visitor to Lower Glady mentioned, "There are numerous dispersed camping sites at this location. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky." Cell service is limited or non-existent in most areas, requiring self-sufficiency and advance planning.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Keyser, West Virginia (14)

    1. Dolly Sods Backcountry

    11 Reviews
    Red Creek, WV
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 257-4488

    "Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, part of the Monongahela National Forest, offers something for every hiker, backpacker, camper."

    "Dolly Sods is a wilderness area within the great Monongahela National Forest. I backpacked here in early March a few years ago. Definitely be prepared for high winds and rain."

    2. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 478-2000

    "road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that"

    "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites."

    3. Squirrel Hollow Road Camping

    2 Reviews
    Wardensville, WV
    31 miles

    "Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by cat or with a small teardrop trailer."

    4. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    2 Reviews
    High View, WV
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 558-2771

    5. Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed

    1 Review
    Cabins, WV
    31 miles
    Website

    "Brushy Ridge Road is Forest Service Road 75 and is in decent condition."

    6. Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Baker, WV
    32 miles

    "But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep. Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood."

    7. Wolf Gap Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Basye, WV
    39 miles

    "The road leading to the camp site from Wardensville was in excellent condition all the way to the camp site. There are e total of 9 campsites."

    8. Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

    7 Reviews
    Harman, WV
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "I didn't pull in until close to 11 PM, but a couple notes on what I could see. There is a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there."

    "There are numerous disbursed camping sites at this location. We arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty.

    The campsites are boarded by boulders."

    9. Little Fort Campground

    5 Reviews
    Woodstock, VA
    49 miles

    "The campsites have a fire ring, a picnic table, and a flat area to pitch a tent. They have parking spots next to them. There are permanent structure Vault toilets/ out houses."

    "Love staying here for just a night couple small trails around the area not any great views but it is very peaceful in the woods."

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Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Keyser, WV

35 Reviews of 14 Keyser Campgrounds



Guide to Keyser

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Keyser, West Virginia, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

  • Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area allows for a truly rustic experience, with no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, making it ideal for those who enjoy a back-to-basics approach.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of fires, but should bring their own firewood, as it is not provided on-site.
  • The site is accessible by both driving and walking, offering flexibility for different camping styles.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Keyser, West Virginia

  • For a magical experience, consider Dolly Sods Backcountry, known for its stunning views and abundant wildlife.
  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience, as this area is best accessed on foot, allowing for a more immersive nature experience.
  • Always hang your food to avoid encounters with wildlife, especially in areas where bears are known to roam.

Canaan Loop Road Dispersed is perfect for backcountry car camping

  • This location offers a mix of drive-in and walk-in access, making it convenient for those with vehicles or those who prefer a short hike to their site. Explore it here.
  • With nearby trails and beautiful views, it’s a great spot for both relaxation and adventure, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but be sure to keep them leashed and clean up after them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Keyser, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Keyser, WV is Dolly Sods Backcountry with a 5-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Keyser, WV?

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Keyser, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.