Dispersed camping near Dryfork, West Virginia requires preparation as most sites sit at elevations between 2,500-4,000 feet with temperature swings that can exceed 30°F between day and night. The Allegheny Plateau region experiences frequent rainfall even in summer months, with most dispersed sites receiving 55-65 inches of annual precipitation. Sites throughout the Monongahela National Forest typically feature rocky, uneven terrain that drains quickly after storms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access prime trout waters at Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping where multiple sites border the creek. "Just camped there with two of my friends this past weekend, really cool site we were lucky enough to get a site next to the river! Get there early as it's first come first serve," notes Nick E., highlighting the popularity of waterfront spots.
Hiking networks: The trail systems around dispersed sites offer varied terrain and difficulty levels. "There are numerous sites along the trails. Sites in the more popular areas by the rivers fill up on busy weekends. The trails can be muddy and rocky but a gorgeous area," explains Megan B. about the interconnected path system.
Winter adventure: Cold weather camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites," reports Jacob about Canaan Loop Road Dispersed conditions, showing the area remains accessible outside peak season.
What campers like
Diverse ecosystems: The region's unique flora creates distinct camping environments. "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana," shares Ben about Dolly Sods Backcountry.
Seclusion levels: Camping areas offer varying degrees of isolation. "Each site is secluded and creek front. We stayed at the last site with the cliff over hang and it was magical," describes Sandra B., highlighting Gandy Creek's privacy features.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "The moon was bright but you could still see hundreds of stars," notes one camper at Dispersed camping at Mower Basin, where elevated campsites provide unobstructed celestial views.
What you should know
Fire safety protocols: Fire bans can occur during dry periods despite the area's typically moist conditions. "Fire rings are large. We removed lots of trash from our fire ring, mostly aluminum cans," reports Kevin C. at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground, emphasizing the importance of cleanup.
Wildlife preparation: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times," warns Emil D., highlighting the need for precautions.
Site availability patterns: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer," Leonard M. cautions about Lower Glady's popularity.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner sites: Some areas offer more amenities for first-time dispersed campers. "There are a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there. My Subaru Forester didn't have any issues, but if you're driving an RV or have a trailer, you may have a struggle," advises Jon N. about access considerations.
Swimming holes: Several creeks feature shallow areas safe for supervised water play. "When you park and walk down to the river, if you turn right, there's a beach area about 50 yards down that offers a great spot to take a dip!" recommends Tommy S. at Little River Dispersed Campsites.
Weather preparation: Rapid weather changes require extra clothing and gear. "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road," shares Rhea B., emphasizing how conditions can change quickly.
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Most forest roads aren't maintained for large vehicles. "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 are tricker to see while driving," reports Lillian R. about Canaan Loop Road.
Turn-around space: Consider where you'll be able to maneuver larger vehicles. "We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!" shares Jadon B. about Dispersed camping at Mower Basin, though most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only.
Campsite access: Many sites require walking from parking areas. "The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways," notes Kevin C., detailing the practical layout at Lower Glady.
