Best Campgrounds near New Manchester, WV

Camping sites near New Manchester, West Virginia provide diverse experiences within the Appalachian foothills. The region averages 41 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures reaching 80-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 700-1,200 feet, creating moderate hiking conditions with some challenging terrain in more remote locations.

What to do

Swimming and water activities: At Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, campers can access the lake for swimming during warmer months. "We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night. There were other campers around but we rarely noticed them and only when walking to restrooms at the daylight," shares Mariana N.

Hiking trails: Fernwood State Forest offers secluded hiking opportunities on marked paths. "It is a very well maintenance campsite most have fire pits a lot of level ground for tent camping pull in parking spots for RVs and campers a bathroom on site and two different trails to hike fishing minutes away," notes Justin T.

Boating options: Guilford Lake State Park provides boat rentals and lake access for personal watercraft. "I love that you can go across the lake and rent a pontoon boat for the day!" according to Sami Jo L., who frequently visits the lake.

What campers like

Private tent sites: Some campers prefer more secluded options. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," notes Dusty R.

Family-friendly amenities: Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins offers extensive recreation options. "Tons of stuff to do here. Very big campground, all kinds of sites. Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff," reports Mathew H.

Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. At Raccoon Creek State Park, one camper mentions, "This is my go to spot for camping when I have to just get away from it all. It's close to home plus it is a great place to take the dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks."

What you should know

Site terrain varies significantly: At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, "You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped," warns Kimberly.

Limited cell service: The Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest, like many area campgrounds, has spotty or non-existent phone coverage. "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier," notes one camper at Austin Lake.

Seasonal closures affect availability: While some camping areas operate year-round, others have limited seasons. Jefferson Lake State Park remains open all year, but Tomlinson Run State Park operates from April 1 to October 31, and Kennedy Marina Park has an even shorter season from mid-May through mid-September.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The campground is clean with clean bathrooms and showers. They have a playground, a basketball court, and their own beach for the campers," says Kevin C. about Guilford Lake State Park Campground.

Water recreation options: Family-oriented sites often offer water activities. "The lake was very very pleasant. The camp hosts were amazing, most of the fellow campers were very kind and friendly," reports Justin G. at Guilford Lake.

Budget-friendly options: For families watching costs, Hidden Hollow at Fernwood State Forest offers free camping. "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30. Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites," explains Donald F.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, one RVer notes, "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods."

Limited hookup availability: Electric access varies between parks. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," advises Eddie at Jefferson Lake.

Fill-up logistics: Water access can be challenging at some sites. Eddie continues about Jefferson Lake: "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot."