Primitive camping options dot the rugged terrain near Monterville, West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet throughout the Monongahela National Forest. The area receives approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and abundant water sources for tent camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, with cooler nights even during peak camping season.
What to do
Boulder exploration at Bear Heaven: Just a short distance from tent camping spots in Monterville, West Virginia, the unique rock formations at Bear Heaven Campground provide natural climbing and exploration opportunities. "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders," notes Adam W.
Visit historic fire towers: Several lookout points offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. "Just a few miles up the mountain you can go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state," says Adam W. The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in nearby Seneca State Forest can even be rented for overnight stays.
Biking the Greenbrier River Trail: This converted railway trail provides miles of relatively flat riding surface through scenic forest. "The Greenbrier River Trail is a delightful bikepacking excursion. Very doable for all ages," explains Dave V., who recommends tires no narrower than 700x32 for the sometimes soggy trail conditions.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Many tent camping locations near Monterville feature water access for cooling off. At Little River Dispersed Campsites, Tommy S. found "a beach area about 50 yards down that offers a great spot to take a dip" when you park and walk down to the river.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide excellent chances to observe local animals. "The Greenbrier River Trail travels through Watoga State Park, Seneca State Forest and the Monongahela National Forest... Mostly deer, rabbit, chipmunks and Eastern Box Turtles sharing the trail...but we did see a few turkey, fox and bobcat," reports Dave V.
Fishing access: Local streams and rivers support various fish species. Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area offers "a nice free camp spot(s) next to a river" according to reviewer R C., making it convenient for fishing directly from camp.
What you should know
Bear safety is essential: Black bears are active throughout the Monterville camping areas. "We were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict," warns Luke M. from Little River. He continues, "We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe."
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many primitive tent camping sites requires driving on unimproved roads. "The road to access these campsites is tucked in the back of a residential area. We missed it the first time by and had to turn around," notes Karli P. about Little River Dispersed Campsites.
Limited cell service: Prepare for communication blackouts in most camping areas. Clayton S. reports about Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area: "No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established facilities: For families tent camping near Monterville, Day Run Campground offers "nice size sites for tents and/or RV. All come with Lantern pole, fire ring with grate for cooking on, and picnic table," according to Christy M., making meal preparation easier with children.
Consider stream-side sites: Camping areas with natural water features provide built-in entertainment. At Little River Dispersed Campsites, Tommy S. describes how "small trails led along the creek in either direction," creating natural exploration opportunities for children.
Plan for bathroom needs: Facilities vary widely between established and dispersed camping areas. Christy M. advises at Day Run Campground to "take your own toilet paper if campground isn't busy because it doesn't get maintained daily and we ran out."
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: Most tent camping areas near Monterville cannot accommodate large RVs. At Seven Mile Campground, Dave V. notes, "I imagine a small teardrop camper or popup could be patiently maneuvered onto this site (that's a tent camper speaking...larger campers may fit just fine, but you better feel comfortable backing long distances)."
Assess road conditions before entering: Many access roads present challenges for towing. Mikaela K. found Poor Farm "wasn't too hard to get there and park in our van," but those with larger vehicles may struggle with the narrow, sometimes muddy access roads common in the region.
Group camping options for multiple RVs: For those traveling with several small RVs, Gatewood Group provides "a great spot for a large group. Very spacious with two vault toilets," according to Justin S., who noted daily ranger visits for trash removal and toilet paper restocking.
