Camping near Lewisburg, West Virginia offers varied terrain from 1,600 to 3,500 feet elevation, creating distinct camping microclimates throughout the region. The area transitions from the Valley and Ridge province to the Allegheny Plateau, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby cities. Winter camping remains accessible at lower elevations while higher campgrounds typically close from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible year-round: Babcock State Park Campground provides over 20 miles of trails across 4,127 acres with varying difficulties. "Ranger Cochrane was a wealth of information about the park, its history and neighboring parks. He graciously spent time answering my barrage of questions," reports one visitor who explored the park's historic CCC structures.
Water activities beyond swimming: Grandview Sandbar Campground offers direct river access for fishing and paddling. The sites are situated on a sandy riverbank with easy water entry points. "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious. Car spots lack the view, but they're quiet," notes a camper who appreciated the riverside location.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Several trails connect directly to campgrounds with routes suitable for beginners to advanced riders. "Fun trails to go ride around on your bike all day," mentions one Douthat State Park visitor who enjoyed the extensive trail system that includes both paved roads and challenging mountain paths.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Greenbrier River Campground has tent sites directly on the river. "Tent sites on the river, RV sites, RV and cabin rentals and float trips. Lots of space for kids to play," notes one reviewer who appreciated the variety of accommodation options available.
Scenic viewpoints within parks: Multiple designated overlooks provide valley and mountain views without long hikes. "Boley Lake, a short drive up the mountain is picturesque and well-stocked with fish. You can paddle the 19 acre lake with personal paddle craft or rent paddleboats, canoes or rowboats from the Boley Lake Marina," shares a visitor who explored beyond the main camping areas.
Historic structures and educational opportunities: CCC-built facilities add historical interest to natural settings. "The beautiful gift shop was once a former park restaurant of a bygone era," notes a camper describing the stone structures and gristmill that provide architectural interest at several parks in the region.
What you should know
Elevation affects camping experience: Higher elevation campgrounds can be 10-15 degrees cooler than valley sites, requiring additional preparation. "The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything," reports one spring camper at a mountaintop site who was surprised by the overnight cold snap.
Seasonal accessibility varies: Watoga State Park Riverside Campground remains open from "early April to late December" while other area campgrounds close by October 31. "Note: It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it," mentions a visitor who planned accordingly.
Wildlife encounters are common: Most campgrounds report regular deer sightings with occasional black bears. "Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn!" writes a camper who enjoyed the wildlife viewing opportunities from their site without any negative encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites near playgrounds: Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins has multiple play areas strategically placed throughout the property. "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site," shares a parent who found this arrangement ideal for their four-year-old.
Choose parks with educational programs: Rangers at several parks offer Junior Ranger programs and guided activities throughout summer months. "The park has a lot of trails and a lake but we didn't have time to check them out," notes a visitor who discovered the educational offerings after arrival.
Bathroom proximity matters: At larger campgrounds, check the map before booking. "The bathhouse was old and mostly clean. Attached to it, is an awesome dishwasher station," mentions a family who appreciated this practical amenity after meals.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Little Beaver State Park Campground requires careful site selection for larger rigs. "Some sites are better than others. Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site," advises an RVer who managed the park's terrain.
Limited full hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric and water only, with dump stations available. "Nice campground as long as the local crowd hasn't taken over. Been there several times and left early as did other families due the disruptive nonsense of a few," notes a visitor highlighting another consideration beyond just hookups.
Access road conditions vary: Several campgrounds have steep entrance roads requiring 4WD during wet conditions. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill," warns a camper describing conditions at one glamping close to Lewisburg, West Virginia.
