Free and established camping options surround Lewisburg, West Virginia, situated within the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 2,000 feet elevation. The region features diverse camping environments from riverside locations along the Greenbrier and New River watersheds to forested mountain settings. Seasonal availability varies significantly, with most public campgrounds operating April through October due to the area's 45-inch annual rainfall and moderate snowfall in winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Greenbrier State Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities with several maintained trails throughout the forested property. "There are many hiking trails throughout the park and a nice pool. The cabin and camping areas are pretty far from the pool area. Guests in either area would more than likely drive to the pool," notes a visitor to Greenbrier State Forest.
River activities: The area's waterways provide multiple recreation options including fishing, swimming, and floating trips. At Greenbrier River Campground, a camper shared, "We loved this park. Had so much fun there. Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept. We will be putting this place on our list of parks to stop at every year."
Disc golf and shooting range: Several local recreation areas offer specialized activities beyond standard camping amenities. Greenbrier State Forest includes both disc golf courses and a shooting range on the property, making it popular for visitors seeking structured recreational options beyond hiking and water activities.
What campers like
Free camping options: Cost-conscious travelers appreciate several no-fee camping areas within an hour of Lewisburg. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May. Peaceful and quiet!" reported a visitor to Army Camp.
Water access and views: Many campgrounds feature direct water access with river or lake frontage. A camper at Meador Campground mentioned, "We stayed in Meador site 14, which was the furthest away from the bath house (still only maybe 150 yards), but it was on the water & was the most secluded. It was freshly mowed, had a fire ring, picnic table, & was right on the water with nice views of the lake & mountains."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's forests and waterways support diverse wildlife populations visible from many campgrounds. "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay," noted the same Meador Campground visitor.
What you should know
Limited or no cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have restricted connectivity. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!). Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," explained a camper at Army Camp.
Seasonal facilities: Several campgrounds operate with limited seasons, typically closing by late October. According to Greenbrier State Forest information, they operate "2nd Friday of April to October 31," while Summer Wind RV Park runs "May 1 to October 15."
Weather considerations: The region experiences varied conditions with frequent rainfall, especially in spring and summer. At Glade Creek Campground, a visitor noted, "During our visit, in early May, it had been and was still experiencing heavy rains and flooding. Even then, it is a beautiful location."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several area campgrounds provide swimming facilities for children. A Pipestem visitor shared, "We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking. We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables."
Wildlife awareness: While wildlife viewing is popular, campers should secure food items. One camper at Pipestem RV Park & Campground warned, "The racoons at night have a schedule of getting any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must."
Space for activities: Family-friendly campgrounds offer adequate room for play areas and recreation. "The sites are very large and have plenty of trees. The dense tree canopy blocked StarLink satellite connection at our site, though it appeared that a few of the spaces with clearer views might be able to make a connection," observed a Greenbrier State Forest camper.
Tips from RVers
Narrow access roads: Many rv campgrounds near Lewisburg, West Virginia have challenging approach routes. A Shady Rest RV Park visitor cautioned, "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast."
Utility hookup variations: RV sites offer inconsistent hookup options throughout the region. "This small campground is nestled in the forest only a few miles off I-64 near Caldwell, WV. There are only about 20 RV sites, well-spaced for privacy. Electric-only hookups, and no dump station on site," reported a Greenbrier State Forest visitor.
Reservation systems: While many Lewisburg area RV parks take reservations, booking procedures vary widely. A visitor to Summer Wind RV Park explained, "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine."
