Free camping options near Nimitz, West Virginia range from riverside sites at New River Gorge National Park to paid RV parks with full hookups. The area features elevations between 1,300-3,000 feet with dense forest cover and seasonal temperature variations. During peak foliage season in October, nighttime temperatures often drop below 40°F while summer days can reach the high 80s.
What to do
Riverside activities: Army Camp Campground offers swimming and fishing access directly from the campsite. "The view of the river is absolutely beautiful!! Water access is not problem if you have a good filtration system," notes a visitor at Army Camp.
Trail access: Multiple campgrounds connect to hiking networks. "Glade Creek Trail follows an old RR bed with easy terrain. Several trails break off Glade Creek trail…and worth taking," writes a camper at Glade Creek Campground.
Mining history: The region's coal mining past can be explored at nearby attractions. "Check out some of the mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, about 30 minutes away, and get up early to catch the sunrise from Grandview Point," recommends a visitor.
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, the area offers whitewater experiences. Stone Cliff Campground visitors note: "There were some visitors throughout the days, hiking, fishing, and a lot of white water rafters."
What campers like
Free camping options: Multiple no-cost sites exist within the New River Gorge National Park. A camper at Stone Cliff Campground reports, "Location was amazing. Sites are first come first served, no reservation needed. Plenty of parking with 6+ isolated camp sites, all with view of river."
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide animal sightings. At Meador Campground, a visitor mentioned, "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay."
Natural features: The proximity to water features is a highlight. "It's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river. I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," shares a camper at Army Camp.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds maintain a peaceful environment despite proximity to natural features. "We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The mountainous terrain creates localized conditions. At Army Camp, a camper warns, "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."
Access challenges: Some roads require careful navigation. At Shady Rest RV Park, a visitor cautions, "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up."
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects some campgrounds. At Meadow Creek Campground, a camper notes, "The biggest con to this is the multi-track railroad right next to the campground. They go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations."
Limited services: Many campgrounds lack amenities. "No drinking water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River…which I wouldn't recommend," advises a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Pipestem RV Park offers numerous recreation choices. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," shares a visitor.
Child-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds have dedicated recreation areas. A camper at Bluestone State Park mentions, "The park is awesome with beautiful views and many roads to bike on. Also significant trails."
Food storage: Wildlife awareness is important. A visitor notes, "The raccoons at night have a schedule of getting any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must."
Site selection: Consider amenities for multi-day stays. "Each site had a fire ring, picnic table, and a pole to hang food from. No electricity or water so be sure to bring your own," advises a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites at Brushcreek Falls RV Resort offer varying privacy levels. "Like a lot of private RV parks, the sites tend to be very close to each other. Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds. Gravel parking pads," observes a visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Summer Wind RV Park operates with limited scheduling. "Nice level Campground, easy access from I-64, AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars. Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," notes a recent visitor.
Booking processes: Administrative procedures vary widely. "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 a camper at Summer Wind RV Park.
Navigation challenges: Some locations require careful driving. "We were having to take it nice and slow getting there with the road and even navigating the property but it was fine. Good location not far off the exit," advises an RVer with a triple axle camper.
