Primitive tent campsites near Mount Clare, West Virginia range from established forest service grounds to more rugged dispersed options. The region sits between 1,200 and 3,000 feet elevation, creating varying camping conditions depending on the season. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s while spring and fall bring cooler weather with overnight temperatures sometimes dropping below 50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Explore rock formations: Bear Heaven Campground features unique boulder formations ideal for exploration. Adam W. says, "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."
Visit nearby overlooks: The Rhododendron Camping Area provides access to scenic viewpoints. According to Emily M., "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!" The campground is within walking distance of trails and panoramic vistas.
Water activities: Camp Ara offers lake activities for campers looking to cool off. Jenn C. notes, "Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing!"
Visit nearby state parks: Possum Tail Farm Camp serves as a convenient base for exploring regional attractions. Ashley F. mentions it's "20 minutes from Swallow Falls State Park(MD)," making it a strategic location for day trips.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The Rhododendron Camping Area provides ample room between campsites. Sienna L. reports, "It is quiet and the sites are spacious. There is a bathhouse located closest to site 5 with trails from other sites to get there."
Basic facilities: Most primitive tent camping locations near Mount Clare offer simple but functional amenities. Ed M. describes Bear Heaven Campground as having "about ten tent sites with firepit, picnic table, clean concrete vault toilt. No running water or showers."
Long-lasting impressions: The natural beauty around Mount Clare creates memorable camping experiences. Jen S. shares, "I camped here 20+ years ago when I (a city girl) had just started camping and I still think about how awesome this place was... This place helped inspire my love of camping and being outdoors."
Welcoming atmosphere: Camp hospitality stands out at certain locations. Kaitlin B. from Camp Ara writes, "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more? The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality."
What you should know
Water availability: Many primitive camping areas require self-sufficiency. At Bear Heaven, Amber A. advises, "It's a very small campground so get here early. Sites are wooded and relatively private with basic facilities but no drinking water (bring treatment methods for the stream)."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Rhododendron, Emily M. notes, "The bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping can be particularly challenging at higher elevations with mud and dampness. At Conaway Run State Lake, Liz Y. describes it as "Pretty rustic. Porta potties are all that is available. No running water so you have to bring your own."
Trailhead camping options: For those seeking more dispersed options, some trailheads permit camping. At Kinderhook Trailhead, a reviewer explains, "I didn't know what to expect for a dispersed campground at a trailhead. We pulled in and there was one couple setup at a designated site (picnic table and fire pit)... The forest website says dispersed camping is allowed and fires are allowed with a 10 foot clearance and a ring of rocks."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly exploration areas: Sites with natural features keep children engaged. At Bear Heaven Campground, Adam W. mentions you can "go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state" just a few miles from the campground.
Consider camps with activities: Some locations offer structured recreation options. Jenn C. notes that at Camp Ara, "You can rent a cabin, camp in the woods, or rent a bunkroom or your group," providing flexibility for family groups with different comfort needs.
Choose sites with convenient facilities: Families appreciate campgrounds with accessible amenities. Kaly from Rhododendron Camping Area appreciated that "There was a fire place and a picnic table and an area to park your car. It was walking distance to the beautiful overlook."
Plan for weather fluctuations: Mountain elevations near Mount Clare experience significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. Pack extra layers and weather-appropriate gear for children, especially for spring and fall camping when overnight temperatures frequently drop into the 40s.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Kinderhook Trailhead accommodates smaller RVs with limitations. One reviewer notes, "With it being an equestrian trail, there were a lot of horses and trailers throughout the day. Before sunset, everyone cleared out and only campers remained."
Limited hookups: Most primitive campgrounds near Mount Clare lack RV hookups. Even at more developed sites like Bear Heaven, Ed M. states it's "Close to Elkins and half hour from Davis. Very nice area and primitive campsites to base your outdoor adventures from!"
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies widely in the mountainous terrain. At Kinderhook Trailhead, a visitor reported "perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service," which can be important for RVers needing to stay connected.
