Tent camping near Nitro, West Virginia offers rustic options within a 45-60 mile radius, primarily in forested terrain at elevations between 600-1500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping provides cooler conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s. Many campsites require travel on gravel roads with limited cell service beyond main highways.
What to do
Fishing access points: Plum Orchard Lake WMA offers multiple fishing spots with a small dock and boat launch area. According to a visitor, "Plum Orchard Lake is a wildlife management area with rustic tent and camper sites. The lake is good for swimming but you're welcome to bring your boat, kayak or canoe too."
Climbing destinations: The region serves climbers with specialized facilities at New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club. A camper noted it's "great for climbers visiting the area. Each site has a wooden tent platform (10'x10') to set up on, which is a huge plus since the ground is so uneven throughout."
Hiking trails: Access numerous trails within Wayne National Forest through Pine Knob Loop Campground. A hiker reported, "We hiked in at this point near Lake Vesuvius in the Wayne National Forest. Found a secluded spot up the trail. Lots of fun and a good hike- easy enough for an 8 year old!"
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Chestnut Creek Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. A camper shared, "They have showers and clean bathrooms just a short walk from any site. All sites are big and you can pick from any available. The host is just a text or call away and he replies very quickly."
Privacy between sites: Sites with natural buffers provide separation from neighbors. One visitor observed, "Most sites are simple with just a picnic table and fire pit. There are lots of trees in between many of the sites for great privacy. There is only one bath house and it can be a short hike depending on the location of your site."
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options supplement the camping experience. A camper at Plum Orchard Lake mentioned, "This is a beautiful area with plenty of fishing and hiking areas within a 20 mile radius or so. The trees are a beautiful array of color - greens, reds and yellows."
What you should know
Site reservation systems: Most tent campgrounds near Nitro use different reservation approaches. At Chestnut Creek, "It can be a little old school in that you have to text to get in touch with them and make reservations but they are always willing to make things work so you can have a good place to sleep."
Seasonal availability: Many facilities close during winter months. One camper noted, "Our visit was the first full weekend in November and many other campgrounds were closed for the winter."
Unpaved access roads: Some tent camping locations require navigating rough terrain. A visitor to Chief Cornstalk Wildlife Management Area warned, "This place is out there a little bit. Right beside the parking lot camp sites there is a nice lake and further up the road there is shooting range."
Water availability: Not all sites provide potable water. One camper advised, "The water at the site is not potable, so plan accordingly. Latrines are provided."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible hiking: Several areas feature trails manageable for children. A family noted, "Lots of fun and a good hike- easy enough for an 8 year old!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local animals. According to one camping family, "We were able to see deer, raccoons and some nice looking birds."
Primitive amenities: Prepare for basic facilities at most tent sites. A camper explained, "This is a very nice little campground set up for tents, hammock campers and some car campers. No hook-ups. Definitely not for RVs or Camper trailers."
Proximity to attractions: Many tent camping options provide strategic access to regional destinations. One visitor mentioned, "This campground is less than a mile from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and the Bridge and only 15 minutes from Summerville Lake!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping areas near Nitro restrict larger vehicles. As one camper noted, "This is a very nice little campground set up for tents, hammock campers and some car campers. No hook-ups. Definitely not for RVs or Camper trailers."
Self-contained requirements: RVs need to bring all supplies. A visitor commented, "You would need to bring everything with you for cooking and using the bathroom."
Road conditions: Access can be challenging for larger vehicles. A camper warned, "Long, bumpy dirt road to reach the campsite—it could be fun in the right vehicle."
