Camping areas near Nutter Fort are scattered throughout West Virginia's central highlands at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Several campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, though facilities may be limited during winter months. Waterways in the region include the Middle Fork River and Shavers Fork River, offering recreational opportunities for campers.
What to do
Fishing the stocked waters: The region offers excellent fishing opportunities, including a catch-and-release pond at Broken Wheel Campground. "I recently went tent camping with my two children and 2 dogs... The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and gaurentee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts!" reports keri S.
Hiking the Alum Cave Trail: This trail provides a moderate hiking experience along the Middle Fork River with unique geological features. "Just outside the campground, across the road and starting along the river is the longer trail (Alum cave trail)...much longer. The terrain is undulating and also traverses a wooden boardwalk under a natural outcropping (thus the name, Alum cave trail). The views of various parts of the river were spectacular," shares Dave V. about his experience at Five River Campground.
Paddling the Middle Fork: When water levels are appropriate, the rivers provide opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and rafting. "We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property. The view and sunsets over the river made for gorgeous pictures," notes Jamie R. at Five River Campground. Seasonal rains can create whitewater conditions attractive to experienced paddlers.
What campers like
Well-maintained bathrooms: Campers consistently mention clean facilities as a standout feature. "The bathhouses are MUCH cleaner than Pipestem & checked often. There's more of a staff presence here also," mentions Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
Riverside camping options: Sites along water offer both recreation and natural cooling. "Used to go here all the time while in college. Such a beautiful, fun and awesome place. Some of my best memories from college," says Carrie R. about Audra State Park Campground. Several campgrounds in the region offer sites immediately adjacent to water.
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds operate throughout winter, providing options regardless of season. "We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there. Campground was in great shape, the RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently. The bathrooms were clean and heated to a comfortable level," notes Mike G. about Coopers Rock State Forest.
What you should know
Limited cell service: While improving, connectivity remains spotty throughout the region. "For some reason, the state doesn't put too much money into this park. You will not enjoy wifi...but there is a payphone outside the campground in the parking lot across from the entrance," notes Dave V. about Audra State Park. Some campgrounds like Five River have begun adding WiFi service.
Weather preparedness essential: Rain is common and can affect campsite conditions. "With the river so close, everything drains right off and into it. The Middle Fork River was at a tranquil flow when we first arrived, but after several days, it swelled into a wild ride," shares Dave V. from his experience at Audra State Park Campground.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis while others accept reservations. "No reservations, first come, first served," notes Brian D. about Audra State Park. Sites with electrical hookups and those along water tend to fill quickly during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds and open areas for children. "The camp has a decent bath house and playground. We plan on going up early in the morning hoping to snag a spot," shares Elaine L. about Audra State Park Campground.
Pet-friendly facilities: Most campgrounds welcome dogs with proper leashing. "We were fortunate to find one along the river which was great to sit by a fire while the kids swam," notes Elaine L. about camping with family at Audra State Park. Similarly, keri S. shares about Camp73RockSt☆r: "Safe place to pull over for the night right of interstate."
Swimming spots for children: Look for designated swimming areas with gentler water flow. "We utilized one of the rv sites with 50 amp service and full hookups... The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it," explains Jamie R. about Five River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs may encounter challenges at some campgrounds. "Big/long RV's (driven or pulled) have difficulty navigating this narrow, curvy campground road pocked with rocky outcroppings. Park in the day use parking by the bridge or picnic area and scout it out first to avoid frustration and personal property damage," advises Dave V. about Audra State Park.
Electric hookup variations: Power availability differs across sites. "The pull throughs are too close to backin sites, so if you come in to pull through, you may have to ask your neighbor to move his vehicle," explains Cynthia K. about Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, adding "There's 64 campsites, I believe they are all electric. There's water at the bathhouse which is inconvenient."
Winter camping considerations: For year-round RVers, select campgrounds offer heated facilities. "We arrived after dark. Was greeted by owner and he helped us into our spot. Excellent customer service. Always got answers quickly. Bathhouses are clean and better then my bathroom at home," notes Barbara A. about her experience at dog-friendly Kick Back n Camp.
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