Lansing sits at approximately 1,818 feet elevation within the New River Gorge region, experiencing moderate rainfall throughout spring and humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F in July. The area's campgrounds rest among Appalachian hardwood forests with oak, maple, and rhododendron creating natural site boundaries. Camping options typically fill during the region's peak climbing and rafting season between May and September.
What to do
Fishing at accessible spots: The New River Campground offers riverfront camping where anglers can fish directly from their sites. "Within two miles you can enjoy breakfast at Tudor's and lunch/dinner at the Secret Sandwich Society...both of which we frequented," notes Dave V. from Rifrafters Campground.
Kayaking from riverside camps: Launch directly from Stone Cliff Campground for paddle trips on the New River. "My dog absolutely loved it-the swimming was A+ and the stick selection was up to her standards," shares Hallie W., highlighting the swimming spots available from shore.
Biking at specialized facilities: Mountain biking trails start directly from some campgrounds. "They have a big field for you to set up tents on along with RV camping areas and a place with individual sites in the back. It's also a bike shop and restaurant. They have goats and miles of bike trails," explains Corey M. about Arrowhead Bike Farm.
What campers like
Riverside proximity: Many campsites offer direct water access. "Location was amazing. Sites are first come first served, no reservation needed. Plenty of parking with 6+ isolated camp sites, all with view of river," explains James A. about Stone Cliff Campground.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Babcock State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities even during busy periods. "The showerhouse/restroom is located at the front of the loop and was spotless and maintained at the time of our stay...but not climate controlled...as in, not heated," shares Dave V., noting that cleanliness remains consistent.
Natural site separation: Several campgrounds feature wooded sites with natural buffers. "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, but it was clean, had several stalls, showers, sinks and electricity," reports Debra W. from Chestnut Creek Campground.
What you should know
Site accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "So we had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site. My wife and I had brought our hatchback instead of our SUV- so our fault, but if this had been mentioned somewhere then we would have known," cautions Zac R. about Stone Cliff Campground.
Trains pass through the area: Railroads run near many riverside campgrounds. "The really bad thing is that there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7," explains Mystic S. about Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Water restrictions: Some facilities limit shower usage. "Showers run on one minute increments but aside from that it's extremely accessible to trails and attractions around the area and staff was beyond helpful and super friendly!!" reports Heidi G. from Arrowhead Bike Farm.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ace Adventure Resort offers additional activities for children. "The Mountain Top Campground was quite nice. Most of the sites have shade but if it had been crowded there's a few that don't have any. The trees were great for hammocks! They have a picnic bench, fire ring and garbage can at each site," shares Terah J.
Hike difficulty levels: Families can find suitable trails near campsites. "We only hiked on two trails, but it was some of the most fun hiking I've ever done. Mann's Creek Gorge Trail is a two-mile walk from the campground to Camp Washington Carver. About a quarter of a mile you come the creek with a great swimming hole," recommends Keith B. about Babcock State Park.
Restaurant proximity: Some campsites offer convenient dining options. "Super close proximity to some fantastic climbing and the entire new river gorge national park. Fayetteville is an awesome little town. I love staying here," mentions Corey M. about Arrowhead Bike Farm.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness concerns: RV sites require assessment. "Some of the campsites were small and right on top of each other," notes Keith B. about Babcock State Park Campground, suggesting careful site selection for larger rigs.
Hookup limitations: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "We stayed here for a couple weeks and hated to leave. The owner and staff are very available and always willing to help. Most sites are full hook up and the bathroom facilities are only for the ones who don't have full hook up," explains Todd W. from New River Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads can challenge larger vehicles. "Note, the drive from Rt 19 to the campground is 8% grades both uphill and down, with twists, turns, and practical uturns with my 35ft. Fun for me, not for my wife lol," warns Chris S. about pet-friendly options at New River Campground.
