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Best Dispersed Camping near Monongahela National Forest

77 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas dot the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. Mower Basin offers approximately 25 remote sites with mountain and lake views accessible via maintained gravel roads. Stonecoal Dispersed Camping features sites along Shavers Fork of the Cheat River, though the access road was closed for upgrades until spring 2024. Little River Dispersed Campsites provides secluded spots tucked behind a residential area, including a group camping area with five sites around a gravel loop.

Most dispersed sites throughout the forest feature established fire rings, and many include picnic tables. Roads vary in quality—some accommodate RVs while others require higher clearance vehicles. Campers should be self-sufficient as amenities are minimal, with only some areas offering vault toilets and trash collection. Cell service is virtually nonexistent in most locations. A recent review noted, "You need to bring everything with you and take it all out with you." The forest service generally limits stays to 14 days, with visible signage at many sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Monongahela National Forest (18)

    1. Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Warm Springs, VA
    12 miles
    Website

    "I pulled in while passing through the area, it was a short ride off the highway and the road in was nice."

    "No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."

    2. Dispersed camping at Mower Basin

    10 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "I chose for this trip to pay a visit to the Monongahela Nation Forest in West Virginia. I plan on dispersed camp in the Mower Basin for seven days. "

    "Very quiet, beautiful views, amazing drive from VA. Multiple campsites and they all have beautiful views. I have T-Mobile and had signal only by the first campsite for some reason."

    3. Little River Dispersed Campsites

    6 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3335

    "This is the Little River Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest, WV. We drove in from the south, through Durbin, which is almost 7 miles on a pothole ridden dirt road."

    "About 7+ miles in from the town of Durbin on a dirt road (not sure how that would go in an RV but easy in a small vehicle). Beautiful dispersed camping near a creek in dense, lush forest."

    4. Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area

    4 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    25 miles
    Website

    "Stayed 9/5/2020 - FREE Site "Turnaround"

    This was difficult to find on Apple Maps, but if you pin the location, it takes you right to it.  "

    "Good quality dirt access road, no problem for my Honda Civic. Got here on a Monday night in late September and there were lots of campsites available. Good access to water with the river."

    5. Monongahela National Forest Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "There are over 900,000 acres in the National forest for hiking and dispersed camping. Immerse yourself in nature and spend the weekend hiking and camping."

    "The camp site was on a small gravel road, tucked up in the forest, only 1 or 2 other campers, but the grounds man who delivered my firewood checked on my 1-2 times a day."

    6. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    13 Reviews
    West Augusta, VA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system."

    "Car could be parked right next to us on site 2. Next to a creek, so good sounds and cool environment 3. Some walking trails 4."

    7. Elk River Dispersed camping

    1 Review
    Monterville, WV
    22 miles

    "Check weather conditions and map before heading here. This is a dispersed camping area so be self sufficient 

    This is a dirt road so not for everyone to travel down. "

    8. Gaudineer Knob camp sites

    2 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3335

    "Like miles of moss and other than the trail that was it. No other trees either. Just Spruce?I think it was spruce but I'm not a treeologist."

    "Even if you choose to not camp here, it is at least worth it to walk the trail and see the overlook."

    9. Sherwood Lake WV

    1 Review
    Covington, VA
    23 miles

    "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. First come first serve."

    10. Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227

    1 Review
    Huttonsville, WV
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 636-1800

    "There are a lot of campsites along this road, many of which could fit an RV, but many of which have some rough roads that an RC or trailer might not do well on."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Monongahela National Forest

76 Photos of 18 Monongahela National Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Monongahela National Forest

77 Reviews of 18 Monongahela National Forest Campgrounds

  • Dare To Everywhere .The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2020

    Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area

    Great free spot in a National Forest and along a river

    Stayed 9/5/2020 - FREE

    Site "Turnaround"

    This was difficult to find on Apple Maps, but if you pin the location, it takes you right to it.  Nice little area within Monongahela National Forest. 

    We pulled in just at sunset on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend and drove through the entire length of the campground to see that all the sites will filled. We got to the turn around and noticed a couple of fire pits setup and a patch of grass. It wasn't a "designated site", but it was a defined area with the fire pits. We were out the next morning, so we didn't have any problems. The only negative was having cars drive through all night.

    Two vault toilets along the long road. There was a trail at the turnaround, but it was completely washed out once we got into the woods. Nice area, right on Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. A few sites are actually on the river side.

    Had NO AT&T or Sprint cell service.

  • Sonder B.
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Dispersed camping at Mower Basin

    Clean, Remote, Pristine, off the beaten path = Mower Basin

    I chose for this trip to pay a visit to the Monongahela Nation Forest in West Virginia. I plan on dispersed camp in the Mower Basin for seven days. 

    The first three I would be solo and on that Friday my partner in crime would come to camp. I went to the primary camp site, and it was occupied. 

    I had four other camp sites chosen and continued to the other four. I found that other campers were on the other spots. I went to the last one and found it to be open. In setting up camp I found two piles of bear scat. 

    One pile was clearly fresher than the other, but still two piles! The attached photo is the last dispersed camp site. It was a little over a mile from the other site. I was dispersed camping in the Mower Basin. You can drive right up to your camp site, but don’t be fooled, this is primitive camping. 

    You need to bring everything with you and take it all out with you.

    Nearest Cell tower is here 38.688719,-79.979097

    Fuel &  small gocery store can be found here 38.710707,-79.979095

    Minor Automotive shop and tire repair here 38.713085,-79.979352

  • Mike C.
    Oct. 18, 2020

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Primitive Fall Fun

    Duration of Stay: Oct 16-18, 2020 Average Daily Temp: 61 Average Evening Temp: 30 On Site Parking: ✅ Potable Water: 🚱 Restrooms: 🚫 Firewood: 🚫 Cell Service: 📵 4x4: ✅ Wildlife and Fishing: ✅

    Amazing place with tons of very primitive spots and privacy. Directions on website are pretty accurate.

    Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you.

    Down the road you will find many spots on your left and your right to tuck back in and call it "home" for a couple days.

    If you travel back to U.S. 33 and drive 9.1 miles West you will find the Brandywine General Store on your left. They have kiln dried firewood, ice, bait, and supplies you may have forgot at home.

    This first come first served location is ideal for off road adventures. Make sure your rig is equipped, this ain't for rookies!

    Would have given this spot a 5 Star if some of the locals understood quiet hours after 10pm and slept past 5am. Be advised, it can get loud at some of the larger sites. Go deeper into the woods if you have the equipment.

  • Amber A.
    Aug. 1, 2016

    Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    FREE dispersed camping near wilderness

    This a US Forest Service site. Campsite is primitive: no facilities aside from vault toilets. Bring water treatment system. Site itself is mostly good for fishing but tons of other good hiking in the area.

  • Jeni N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2020

    Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

    Awesome dispersed sites!

    A couple of friends and I traveled to the Monongahela National Forest in search of some free camping. Unfortunately we had gotten there late on Labor Day weekend so we drove pretty far in to find a campsite. All of the campsites seem to be along the river and have a fire ring. Although our neighbors were across the river from us, the sound of the river blocked out any noise they had made. It was perfect! We also took a ride up to Spruce Knob in the morning, for two reasons. One because we wanted to see the view. Two because on top of the Spruce Knob tower was the only cell reception we were able to find in order to find our way out of there.

  • Tommy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2020

    Little River Dispersed Campsites

    Pristine Roadside Site

    This is the Little River Dispersed Camping in Monongahela National Forest, WV.

    We drove in from the south, through Durbin, which is almost 7 miles on a pothole ridden dirt road. Dangerous for RVs, great for those looking for an escape. 

    We noticed two small gravel camping areas to the left when we entered the area, but were then rewarded with the first open site on the right by the creek. The site was breathtaking, with a small stream pool running along one egde, and the rushing river on another. Soft dirt padded the entire area, and great trees filled the space with their natural architecture and canopy. There was a fire pit by the main camping area, and a fire pit down by the creek. It was a mansion in terms of campsite sizes, though it's primitive still, so don't forget your shovel. Small trails led along the creek in either direction. Two white cross grave monument memorials could be seen from the creekside. 

    It had rained a lot recently, so the driveway into the site got muddy towards the end, causing us to park half way down. We couldn't get a fire started either of the two nights we were here as everything was wet, though we were graced by copious amounts of some interesting mushroom species. 

    On two occasions, deafening aircraft, possibly military, passed over what seemed like the treetops. It was frightening in the peace of the area, so that's a small heads up. I only saw one other traveler drive by, two construction vehicles, and the park ranger truck a couple times.

    Otherwise, on a month-long roadtrip, this was probably my favorite location of over a dozen. We didn't drive any further past our site, but I've heard there's over a dozen locations here, guessing they may be of similar quality. We hiked the Span Oak trail, at the beginning of the camping area, which led us along a beautiful ridge.

  • Jon N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2022

    Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227

    The most beautiful basin campsites

    So instead of putting in 20+ reviews, I'm just going to lump them all into one. There are a lot of campsites along this road, many of which could fit an RV, but many of which have some rough roads that an RC or trailer might not do well on.

    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. Each site also has a campfire ring and is well spaced out from the next one, but not always from the road.

    You are sort of in a valley/basin kind of area. There used to be a lot of spruce tree farming here so I think that is why it is so cleared out. It doesn't seem to be an active logging zone now though, so it's just peaceful and quiet. 

    I have t-mobile and got zero service. I wouldn't expect any carrier to get any service out there though.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful area!

    I made a spontaneous trip this past weekend. Easy to find and a beautiful area. Some things to note- the lake front campsites fill up quickly and they are not drive in. Since I sleep in my Jeep, I needed a drive in spot. I drove past the lakefront sites and there are a few really nice spots right past the paved bridge on the dirt road, some next to the creek and some out further. I drove down a path that would not be accessible with a car, however there are spots closer to the dirt road that you don’t need a vehicle with high clearance. I’ll definitely be going back!

  • Erik C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2021

    Little River Dispersed Campsites

    Beautiful and secluded

    About 7+ miles in from the town of Durbin on a dirt road (not sure how that would go in an RV but easy in a small vehicle). Beautiful dispersed camping near a creek in dense, lush forest. Not much for views and only stayed one night so didn’t get to hike but it was a perfect, quiet spot for an overnight. Would definitely come back for a longer stay.

Guide to Monongahela National Forest

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, where nature lovers can find tranquility and stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of sites for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Monongahela National Forest

  • Enjoy breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings at Dispersed camping at Mower Basin, where multiple campsites provide stunning vistas and a serene atmosphere.
  • Explore the extensive network of hiking trails available at Monongahela National Forest Dispersed Site, perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers looking for adventure.
  • Experience the thrill of mountain biking on well-maintained trails at Gaudineer Knob camp sites, where the combination of moss-covered forests and scenic paths creates an unforgettable ride.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia

  • Arrive early to secure a prime spot at Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area, as sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at Elk River Dispersed camping, as this area does not provide drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal, making self-sufficiency essential.
  • Keep an eye on weather conditions and road accessibility when heading to Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, as some roads may be challenging to navigate, especially after rain.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Are specific dispersed camping areas like Mower Basin and Elk River open in Monongahela National Forest?

Both Dispersed camping at Mower Basin and Elk River Dispersed camping are typically open for camping in Monongahela National Forest, though availability is seasonal. The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, with potential closures during winter months or severe weather events. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. For specific current conditions and seasonal restrictions, contact the Monongahela National Forest district office before your trip. Like other dispersed sites in the forest, these areas offer primitive camping experiences with limited or no facilities, so come prepared with water, waste disposal plans, and supplies for leave-no-trace camping.

Where are the best locations for dispersed camping in Monongahela National Forest?

Monongahela National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping locations. Little River Dispersed Campsites provides peaceful sites along a creek in dense forest, located about 7 miles from Durbin on a dirt road that may be challenging for RVs. Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping offers beautiful waterfront sites with fire rings, perfect for stargazing. Other popular areas include Stonecoal and Forest Road 227, which features numerous sites marked by the Forest Service. For the best experience, arrive early during peak seasons as these free sites fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Most locations feature basic amenities like fire rings but require visitors to bring water and pack out trash.

Is there a map available for dispersed camping areas in Monongahela National Forest?

Yes, maps for dispersed camping in Monongahela National Forest are available through the USFS offices and online. The Forest Service provides maps marking designated dispersed camping areas, including those along Dispersed Camping off Forest Road 227 where sites have clear markers placed by the Forest Service. Visitors can also obtain the Monongahela National Forest map PDF from the USFS website or visitor centers. While digital navigation can be helpful, some campers report difficulty finding locations like Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area on apps like Apple Maps. For the most reliable navigation, download offline maps before your trip as cell service is limited throughout the forest.

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