Coopers Rock State Forest camping areas span nearly 13,000 acres of forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,600 feet. Located 13 miles east of Morgantown, the region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool fall nights that often drop below 45°F. Winter camping options are limited as most facilities close from late October through early April when snowfall averages 30-40 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 3-mile trail system at Swallow Falls State Park connects to multiple cascades including Maryland's highest waterfall. "Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet. Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River. Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921," notes a camper at Swallow Falls State Park Campground.
Rock climbing: Outcroppings for all skill levels throughout the region provide technical challenges. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" writes a visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest.
Winter activities: Cross-country ski trails open when snowfall permits. "This is my absolutely favorite go-to weekend exploration spot. She never looks the same, and every season has a new vista to offer," notes a winter visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest.
Star gazing: Minimal light pollution in certain camping areas creates ideal night sky viewing. "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!" reports a camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Room between campers ranks high in reviews. "The sites are spaced out. Electricity at sites but no water or sewer. A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water," mentions a camper at Coopers Rock State Forest.
Heated bathhouses: Off-season comfort makes shoulder season visits more enjoyable. "The bathrooms were clean and heated to a comfortable level. Showers had great pressure as well," notes a visitor to Coopers Rock in October.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings common throughout camping areas. "The paths are littered with very docile deer and the lake is crystal clear," writes a camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground.
Yurt camping: Masontown, West Virginia area offers yurt options at several parks. "Sites are very large. Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept," notes a visitor to Chestnut Ridge Regional Park where yurt accommodations are available seasonally.
What you should know
Bear activity: Food storage required at most campgrounds. "We did have a raccoon visitor, and a black bear while we were there... Bears are common so they emplaced a big old bear box at every site. It's enough room to hold your food for a month of camping!" advises a Deep Creek Lake camper.
Off-season closures: Many facilities unavailable from November through March. "Swallow Falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun," explains a year-round visitor to the region.
Site selection: Research before booking as quality varies significantly. "Choose your site wisely! The sites are spread out. Electricity at sites but no water or sewer," recommends a Blackwater Falls visitor who noted significant differences between sites.
Seasonal weather: Temperature variations can be extreme. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises a Blackwater Falls camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kid-friendly sites available at select locations. "I had my son and nephew with and we all had a great time at both sites. I will definitely be back," mentions a visitor to Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park.
Easy waterfall access: Walkable trails suitable for younger children. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage," notes a family that visited Swallow Falls.
Nature programs: Educational activities offered seasonally. "Didn't miss his PS4 at all... Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time," reports a parent who camped at Coopers Rock.
Yurt camping near Masontown: Family-friendly options reduce setup time. "My kids love the swings and playground also... I have camped here many times over the years. I have thoroughly enjoyed every time," shares a repeat visitor with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Plan accordingly as full-service sites are scarce. "Just what u expect. Woods, large sites picnic table, fire ring, lantern hook. Large site level gravel," notes an RV camper at Ohiopyle State Park.
New electric sites: Recent upgrades improve RV camping options. "We had empty space on either side of us. New section is spaced out with a berm of earth in between alot of the sites. Road out a decent storm and 2.5 inches of rain in 24 hours," reports a recent visitor to Coopers Rock who used the new RV section.
Water access: Limited availability at many sites. "You can't drive close to the bathhouse, There's pedestrian paths... There's water at the bathhouse which is inconvenient," advises an RV camper at Blackwater Falls.
