Monongahela National Forest near Marlinton offers diverse camping options at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet with cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The area receives approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush vegetation and multiple water features. Seasonal closures typically run from late October through early April at most established campgrounds.
What to Do
Fishing at multiple locations: Cranberry River Sites provides access to both stocked and wild trout fishing. "The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other," notes Jamie H. from Cranberry River Sites.
Hiking through tunnels: The Greenbrier River Trail features historic railway tunnels. "Traveling through Droop Mountain Tunnel" is listed as a highlight by Dave V. at Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite, who also mentions "traveling over the nearly 100 year old steel RR bridges."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer opportunities to spot native animals. "Wildlife and songbirds were abundant and as shocked to see you as you were them. Oftentimes, the deer would run the trail ahead of you for 200 yards before cutting off onto their sidetrail," shares Dave V. describing his experience at the Greenbrier River Trail.
What Campers Like
Primitive camping accessibility: Free camping is available along the Greenbrier River Trail. "These primitive campsites are free, first come-first served and cannot be reached by motor vehicle. The campsites that dot the Greenbrier River Trail are meticulously maintained by State Park employees and are in well thought out locations," reports Dave V. from Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 69.6.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities. "Bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen at any campground and were a very short, convenient walk from our site," writes Joanna G. about her experience at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Water activities: Swimming options range from designated beaches to river access points. "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. There's a Seperate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes but we rather enjoyed walking to the water from our site and having what seemed like our own little swimming spot," notes Joanna G. about Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain.
What You Should Know
Bear safety requirements: The Monongahela National Forest is bear country. "This is bear country, so we kept all our food items and toiletries in a bear cannister during our trip. We did not experience any encounters or sightings, but fellow cyclists traveling in the same direction, observed a juvenile bear during the day along the trail," warns Dave V. at Greenbrier River Trail Milepost 63.8 Primitive Campsite.
Cell service limitations: Most campsites have limited or no cellular connectivity. "No cell service" is listed as both a pro and con by multiple reviewers, including Dave V. who noted this about Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5.
Seasonal weather patterns: Afternoon rain showers are common in summer months. "In June, you can anticipate random, short afternoon or evening cloudbursts...but they can be gully-washers. Nights were cool and most mornings I wore a long-sleeve Merino shirt," reports Dave V. at Greenbrier River Trail Milepost 63.8.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and water activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This campground has plenty to offer for the whole family... This park has lots of hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," describes Hannah V. from Holly River State Park Campground.
Creek exploration opportunities: Streams running through campgrounds provide natural play areas. "Beautiful campground located in the middle of nowhere. Quiet and peaceful with a fantastic stream going through the campground to either fish or play in," reports Megan B. from Kumbrabow State Forest.
Equestrian facilities: Horse-friendly campgrounds accommodate families with horses. "The campground had stables and catered to people with horses, but we felt very welcomed by the owners," explains Cindy B. about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables, one of several horse campgrounds near Marlinton, West Virginia.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds have limitations for bigger RVs. "The sites are a little tight if you have a bigger camper. We have a R-Pod so the site was perfect for us," advises Cassia M. about Holly River State Park.
Hookup availability: Full hookup options vary by campground. "Most of the sites were full hook-ups and the facilities were very clean and well maintained," notes Cindy B. regarding East Fork Campground, an ideal equestrian campground near Marlinton providing complete RV services.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "Access is by about 6 miles of dirt/rock road," warns Kenneth K. about reaching Kumbrabow State Forest, while C.S. lists "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there" as one of the cons.
Traveler
