Dispersed camping near Horner, West Virginia offers remote sites at elevations ranging from 2,400 to 4,300 feet throughout the Monongahela National Forest. Winter camping requires preparation for snow conditions, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. Forest roads often close seasonally or after heavy rainfall events.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Most dispersed camping areas provide stream access for fishing, particularly at Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping where campers report "It's amazing and peaceful. Plus the fishing is wonderful." Trout fishing is popular spring through fall.
Forest exploration: The moss-covered pine forests near Gaudineer Knob camp sites create unique hiking experiences. A camper described it as "Just wow! The forest floor is only moss. Like miles of moss and other than the trail that was it. No other trees either. Just Spruce... That combination created the world's most quiet environment ever."
Mountain biking: Several dispersed areas offer single-track trails. A visitor to Mower Basin noted, "I also love this place as it has a small network of single track trails for anyone with a bike, or in my case, Electric unicycle. The trails were well maintained and offered a wonderful variety of wooded and open space riding."
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Dispersed sites throughout the national forest provide privacy. At Little River Dispersed Campsites, campers appreciate that "the sites are so spread out and private." Another camper mentioned "We only drove down to the second site, but it was awesome! Big site, good fire ring, paths to walk right from the site."
River access: Many dispersed sites feature creek-side locations. At Elk River Dispersed camping, one visitor shared, "We set up camp right next to Rose Run, just East of the closed off bridge... It was nice to just sit by the river, listen to the sounds and relax."
Star viewing: The remote location provides excellent night sky visibility. A Mower Basin visitor reported, "Words cannot describe how amazing this site was to camp in... The moon was bright but you could still see hundreds of stars."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most forest roads require careful driving. When visiting Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, a camper noted, "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4."
Wildlife safety: Bear encounters require proper precautions. Campers should store food securely and maintain clean campsites. At Little River, one visitor warned after being charged by a bear that "We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe."
Seasonal access: Winter camping requires appropriate vehicles and gear. A Canaan Loop camper advised, "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For families with children, consider campgrounds with established facilities. Lower Glady Dispersed Campground includes vault toilets and defined camping areas. A visitor noted, "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."
Weekend planning: Holiday weekends fill quickly. One camper warned about Lower Glady, "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."
Water activities: Streams provide natural entertainment for children. At Gandy Creek, campers report "Several nice spot right along the creek" and "There are lots of privacy, every site is unique and special in it's own way."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle length limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles only. At Mower Basin, a camper shared "Awesome spot in mountain, not too many sites but they are all well marked. Just have to push through some steep gravel roads but we did it in truck and trailer."
Leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks for uneven terrain. One RVer at Lower Glady noted, "Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large."
Road clearance: High-clearance vehicles access more remote sites. A visitor to Canaan Loop Road advised, "The road is a little rough so take your time."
