1 campground with availability this weekend
Multiple RV campgrounds near Gauley Bridge accommodate motorhomes and travel trailers with varying hookup options. Rifrafters Campground offers 40 sites with full hookups, including water, electric, and sewer connections. Sites are well-maintained but closely spaced, with some pull-through options available for larger rigs. "The campground is clean, well maintained and conveniently located. It is only about 7 minutes from the New River Bridge welcome center," notes one visitor, though they mentioned fire rings and picnic tables ended up under their awning due to tight spacing. Summer Wind RV Park in Meadow Bridge provides pull-through sites with 50-amp service and full hookups, operating from May through mid-October. Shady Rest RV Park features level gravel pads suitable for big rigs, though some reviews indicate the campground has a significant number of long-term residents.
Most RV parks in the area require reservations during peak seasons, especially in summer and fall when New River Gorge National Park draws visitors. Navigation to some campgrounds involves narrow mountain roads with steep grades and sharp turns that may challenge larger motorhomes. Cell service varies throughout the region, with Verizon typically providing the most reliable coverage. Dump stations are available at several campgrounds, including Elk River Camp and RV Park, which provides river access alongside hookup services. A recent review mentioned, "We called 30 minutes before our arrival and the friendly staff was able to accommodate us last minute." Pet-friendly policies are common across most parks, though some maintain restrictions on certain breeds or require leashes at all times. Seasonal closures affect availability, with several parks shutting down water services from November through March to prevent pipe freezing.
"Army camp is nestled by the new river and has plenty of views of the mountains. None of us had cell phone reception, so if you’re looking for a tech free weekend then this is your spot."
"The road in is narrow and has a lot of low hanging limbs, so no big rigs here. It’s quiet apart from the sounds of the river and the bugs. Generators are allowed except for between 10p-6a."
"quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures."
"We wanted to be near New River Gorge National Park and the interstate. Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. "
from $30 - $35 / night
"These are full hook up sites, very affordable and great proximity to the mid and lower areas of New River Gorge National Park. It’s definitely a no frills location."
"Very well lit with very modern water and electric hook ups. All slips have a fire pit, bar-b-que grill and picnic tables. Pavilions have great lighting and dimmers for a softer light. "
from $20 - $35 / night
"There has been a lot of nice upgrades to the grounds and facilities ad well as things to do at pipestem since my last review a few years ago. "
"We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking."
from $55 - $65 / night
"Our site was level. The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms... Would stay again"
"We spent our time on the Hatfield/McCoy trails which were about 20 minutes from the campground."
"Very comfortable and quiet campground. Camp hosts (owners?) and staff are very friendly and helpful. Close to local towns for services."
"Beautiful area, close to New River National Park. Very accommodating staff. Includes wifi, PBS TV, small dog run, small playground, picnic shelter, laundry, bathhouse, firewood, ice,etc."
from $15 - $50 / night
"Spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Amazingly helpful staff. Plus there is a bar!! What else could you ask for! We will definitely be staying here again."
"Great campground adjacent to New River Gorge National Park. Within a short walk/bike to multiple biking and hiking trailheads. Close enough to bike into Fayetteville (a cool little town)."
from $10 - $85 / night
"Hilltop Sunrise has a perfect spot for those traveling to the newest National Park, skip the trip to the local Walmart and enjoy a full yard and enjoy your campfire while avoiding the crowds at the other"
"His level of service was next level and was happy to offer suggestions for food, etc. Made sure I had everything and when bad westher was coming through, he made sure I was aware and safe."
from $19 - $29 / night
"There is five drive-in sites and more walk-in sites on the edge of the camp. The drive-in sites filled and vacated several times throughout the weekend."
"In the New River Gorge National Park, you will not find the sprawling campgrounds found in many other national parks."
ScoutWe stayed in Site number 24 which is full hook ups, however, just about all of the sites number is one through 32 are less than desirable either very little room outside your camper or the back in sites are steep hard to level your camper and very little room to set a set of chairs out I would not camp in this area of the campground again.
ScoutGreat campground, very nice, clean bath house. Park is easy to find
ScoutWe were told we couldn't stay there because we weren't members
TravelerHuge campground. Well maintained. The lake is gorgeous, great for kayaking or paddle boarding
ScoutThe website is dead and so is the phone number. No reservations possible.
RangerThis campground provides an off the main road and in the woods experience. Tents have grassy spots and elevated platforms overlooking the area. There are several camper/RV spots along with cabins of various sizes. A calm creek runs through the property and within minutes of the New River National Park visitor center, downtown Fayetteville, and other adventure businesses.
GuideNice place to camp very relaxing.
ScoutOn west side of Summersville lake, 18 free first come campsites, drive-in, level. Vault toilets, no water. Picnic tables, grill and fire ring. Access to free swimming across road at winter boat ramp. Sandy beach swimming down the road for $5. Lake is clear and warm.
TravelerAs others have reported, the 11 sites here are well maintained and spaced apart nicely. The road in is narrow and has a lot of low hanging limbs, so no big rigs here. It’s quiet apart from the sounds of the river and the bugs. Generators are allowed except for between 10p-6a. Verizon has no service here. Half the sites get decent exposure to charge the solar, the other half are mostly shade. The protected river bottom meant no breeze for the 5 nights we were here, so it remained hot and buggy. But overall it’s a great spot away from the madness. Most of the spots got filled every night during the week at the end of August with a lot of daily turnover, so arrive early.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near Gauley Bridge, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Gauley Bridge, WV is Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve with a 4.5-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near Gauley Bridge, WV?
TheDyrt.com has all 120 RV camping locations near Gauley Bridge, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
