Dispersed camping opportunities near Marlinton, West Virginia extend throughout Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. Free camping sites cluster along forest roads and waterways with variable terrain conditions dependent on recent precipitation. Most locations require self-sufficiency with campers packing in water and packing out all waste.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping offers multiple fishing spots along the creek. One camper noted, "There are lots of trails, LOTS, all around that area. There's a really cool rock formation where the creek goes under the Whitmer Road Bridge." Several sites include deeper sections suitable for swimming during warmer months.
Trail exploration: The trail network at Mower Basin includes well-maintained mountain biking routes. A reviewer highlighted the quality: "There is a gorgeous network of trails defined as multi-use but designed particularly for mountain bikers, complete with berms, moguls, and generally sufficient width for navigating without hanging up a handlebar." The trails remain groomed year-round, unlike many forest service routes.
Winter camping: Some sites remain accessible during winter months for snow recreation. One camper at Mower Basin reported: "We strolled up the mountain in our 39ft skoolie. It snowed and we had a really good time!" Access becomes more challenging after heavy snowfall, particularly at higher elevations.
What campers like
Privacy and separation: Little River Dispersed Campsites provides secluded spots that campers praise. One visitor shared: "We found a lovely spot in the group campsite - there was no one else there! The group campsite had 5 spots spread around a smallish gravel loop."
Waterfront locations: Many free sites near Marlinton provide direct creek or river access. A camper at Gandy Creek described their experience: "We stayed at the last site with the cliff over hang and it was magical. We took our car but the roads were a bit rough and I wouldn't recommend anything too low to the ground."
Established camping areas: Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area offers defined sites with minimal facilities. A visitor explained: "There are maybe 5 ish spots to camp next to a river in this mountain valley. I took the one and only site just before the proper camp site (it was the best one IMO)." This area provides toilet facilities within a short walking distance.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest access roads vary significantly in quality. A reviewer at Sherwood Lake WV explained: "Around a dozen sites with Rick fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only. These are located along the road to Lake Sherwood in Neola WV off Rt. 92." Some routes require slower driving speeds regardless of vehicle type.
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent these camping areas, requiring proper food storage. One camper at Little River warned: "Not even 2 minutes from our dispersed camp site we were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict!"
Site identification: Many forest service sites now include markers. A visitor to Forest Road 227 noted: "Each site has a clear marker put there by the Forest Service, something I haven't seen before, and plenty of signs asking to limit your stay to 14 days." This standardization helps prevent camping in undesignated areas.
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-adjacent sites: Sites near water features provide natural entertainment. A visitor to Gaudineer Knob camp sites shared: "You park in the little lot that has a cassette toilet and a trash dump bin. Then there is a 1/2 mile loop with little campsites all along it. It looked like most of them had a table and fire ring."
Safety considerations: Plan thoroughly due to remote locations. A camper at Poor Farm noted: "Need to be self sufficient though, only convenience is a toilet house. No cell coverage. Highly recommend for primitive camping." Emergency services may take significant time to reach remote sites.
Site selection timing: Arrive early, especially on weekends. A Gandy Creek visitor advised: "Just camped there with two of my friends this past weekend, really cool site we were lucky enough to get a site next to the river! Get there early as it's first come first serve!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most free camping near Marlinton accommodates smaller RVs but presents challenges for larger units. A Mower Basin 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."
Site selection strategies: Look for wider, flatter pullouts along main forest roads. At Gandy Creek, a visitor observed: "The sites ranges in size from tent capable to large RV and group sites. Sites will usually have a fire circle and you are close to the creek."
Seasonal access considerations: Higher elevation sites may become inaccessible to RVs during winter. A Mower Basin reviewer cautioned: "Because of the roughness of the road to get up to Mower Basin, I doubt you could get easily get a large motorhome up here, but I have seen MANY fifth wheel or campers up to 25 feet in length."
