Free camping options and National Park Service sites make camping near Gauley Bridge, West Virginia, accessible for visitors on any budget. The area sits at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 feet, creating moderate summer temperatures in the 70s-80s°F with cooler nights. Many campsites in this region close or reduce services between November and March due to potential freezing conditions and snow.
What to do
River access for fishing: Army Camp Campground provides direct access to the New River for anglers. "Area for people to swim in the river or fish. One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet," notes Billy C., who gives this free camping area five stars.
Mountain biking trails: Arrowhead Bike Farm offers on-site trail access for cyclists. "They have a big field for you to set up tents on along with RV camping areas and a place with individual sites in the back. It's also a bike shop and restaurant. They have goats and miles of bike trails," says Corey M.
Water recreation: The nearby Summersville Lake provides opportunities for boating, paddling, and swimming. "Summerville Lake is surrounded by cliffs topped by trees. Perfect for exploring by boat. Lots of wildlife, nice beach," shares Dan N., who enjoyed the waterfront campsites at Battle Run.
What campers like
Free National Park campsites: Army Camp in New River Gorge National Park offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free!" reports Rachel S., who visited in mid-May.
Peaceful countryside settings: Summer Wind RV Park provides scenic pastoral views. "Amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures," writes Kelly N.
On-site food and beverage options: Some campgrounds offer dining facilities that campers appreciate. "Their tacos are to die for and the staff is super friendly. I stay here every time I go to the New, almost entirely for the tacos," says Corey M. about Arrowhead Bike Farm's restaurant.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have challenging access roads. "It is a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by," reports Kristi D. about Army Camp.
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds use online booking, others have informal systems. "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine," explains Whistle P. about Summer Wind RV Park.
Weather preparation: The New River can flood rapidly after rainfall. One Army Camp visitor cautioned: "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive, 30 ft from our tent pad. Even though it had not rained in 18 hours, the New River continued to swell."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Pipestem RV Park & Campground offers activities for children. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," shares Molly F., who visited with her family in a 37-foot travel trailer.
Kid-friendly recreation: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Right by Summersville Dam, a gas station, local shops and restaurants, and many cool boating and recreation locations. Right before the dam there is a location you can camp in for free, but this would be a better location for kids and dogs to run around," notes Ruby W.
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy observing local animals. "The powerful drone of the New River never subsides. Song birds, robins and crows competed vocally during daylight hours. Interesting insects crawled the river's sandy shore and a brightly colored Eastern box turtle searched for higher-dryer ground," reports one visitor at Army Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: When RV camping near Gauley Bridge, check reviews for information about site grading. "Easy level spots row c is best (which is where 50 amps are). Easy off and on the interstate and we fit fine driving 40' towing," advises a reviewer at Summer Wind RV Park.
Last-minute availability: Brushcreek Falls RV Resort can accommodate unplanned stops. "The hosts made it super easy to reserve, check in etc. Truly nice people. The place is not too big or small, just right. Very clean. Nice tenants! Spots are long but pretty close together," notes Heather H.
Seasonal operations: Be aware of operating schedules when planning RV trips. "Summer Wind RV Park provides pull-through sites with 50-amp service and full hookups, operating from May through mid-October," according to their seasonal information.
