Best Campgrounds near Paw Paw, WV

Camping near Paw Paw, West Virginia encompasses a mix of state parks, forests, and established campgrounds nestled in the Appalachian foothills. The region features several notable camping destinations including Coopers Rock State Forest and Tygart Lake State Park, both within driving distance of Paw Paw. These areas provide options for tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals amid the rolling mountains and river valleys that characterize this part of West Virginia. According to campers, Coopers Rock State Forest offers "incredible views of the Cheat River Gorge" and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions.

Most campgrounds in the Paw Paw area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter accessibility. Coopers Rock State Forest is typically open April 1 to October 31, while Tygart Lake State Park operates from mid-April to October. Cell service can be unreliable throughout the region, with one reviewer noting that "most of WV has 'no service' emblazoned across your phone," though some locations like Coopers Rock surprisingly offer WiFi. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with spring bringing frequent rainfall that can cause river levels to rise rapidly. Summer temperatures are generally moderate at these higher elevations, making it a popular time for visitors seeking relief from hotter lowland areas.

The camping experiences around Paw Paw range from more developed sites with amenities to simpler accommodations. RV campers will find electrical hookups at several locations, though visitors with larger rigs should check accessibility beforehand as some campgrounds have narrow, winding roads with rocky outcroppings that can be difficult to navigate. Families and groups can take advantage of riverside camping at places like Audra State Park, where sites are positioned along the Middle Fork River. Wildlife encounters are common, with one visitor to Tygart Lake warning about "a huge raccoon problem" that requires careful food storage. Reservations are recommended during peak season, especially for weekend stays when locals frequently fill campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Paw Paw, West Virginia (97)

    1. Coopers Rock State Forest

    32 Reviews
    Dellslow, WV
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 594-1561

    $25 - $35 / night

    "This is the largest state forest in West Virginia, it has a total of 25 sites that vary in their privacy. Each site has electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire grates, and utility post."

    "There is also a small laundry room with dishwashing sink behind the bathhouse. Both ice and firewood are sold onsite."

    2. Tygart Lake State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    19 miles
    Website

    "There was a bathroom close by with running water and showers. It was beautiful and very close to the lake."

    "Trails to lakeside/shore where campers do swim although no swimming from shore is "not" allowed. Just be respectful and clean up after yourselves and usually no drama involved."

    3. Mylan Park

    5 Reviews
    Cassville, WV
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 983-2383

    "Decent sized “parking spaces” Available on holiday weekend Good price ($40/night) Full hookups (bring your long sewer tube, I used 3 x15’ as it’s at the tail of the spot) Fields & Grassy area adjacent"

    "We love it here most of the time it’s close to Morgantown so it’s perfect for university events. Really close to campus. They have full hookups & partial hookups."

    4. CAMP73ROCKST☆R

    1 Review
    Morgantown, WV
    8 miles

    $35 - $65 / night

    5. Camp Ara

    2 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (757) 652-4777

    $20 - $150 / night

    "Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing! Cant wait to go back!"

    6. Indian Meadows Campground

    1 Review
    Cassville, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 879-5526

    "The rate for a tent spot is 17 and there are spot for 50,30 amps RVs The owner is a nice guy There is a near gas station"

    7. Mason - Dixon Historical Park

    1 Review
    Cassville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 291-7257

    "Kids enjoyed playing around the boat ramp. Clean restrooms."

    8. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    79 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $20 - $54 / night

    "The plan was to camp and hike throughout West Virginia, but when we visited Pathfinder outdoor retailer in Morgantown, WV the staff encouraged us to check out Ohiopyle, while we were so close."

    "Very close to two Frank Lloyd Wright properties– Kentuck Knob and the more widely known Falling Waters."

    9. Family Fishing N' Camping

    3 Reviews
    Grafton, WV
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 265-1000

    $10 - $150 / night

    10. Audra State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Volga, WV
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 457-1162

    "Audra State Park, is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the journey. Tucked away, just outside of Buckhannon, WV...home of West Virginia Wesleyan College."

    "v=VLUEBlIxHpo)

    Trails undulate with the terrain. The short trail within the campground area is steep in areas but offers some nice views."

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Recent Reviews near Paw Paw, WV

503 Reviews of 97 Paw Paw Campgrounds



Guide to Paw Paw

Camping near Paw Paw, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the campfire, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Blackwater Falls State Park Campground. "The Black Water Falls were also within walking distance and beautiful to see," shared a camper who enjoyed the easy access to nature.
  • Rafting: If you're feeling adventurous, head to Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park for some rafting fun. One visitor mentioned, "Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohio Pyle river. Very convenient to the river and town."
  • Fishing: Check out Tygart Lake State Park Campground for fishing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "It was beautiful and very close to the lake," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One visitor at Audra State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms were spotless with tiled floors and walls."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer at Coopers Rock State Forest mentioned, "Lots of trees between campsites to help with privacy."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of the staff. At Five River Campground, one visitor said, "The owners are amazing and so helpful. They go out of their way to make sure you have a wonderful time."

What you should know:

  • No alcohol allowed: Some campgrounds, like Swallow Falls State Park Campground, have strict rules against alcohol. A camper noted, "I like that the campground is dog friendly, but didn’t realize the park is not."
  • Limited amenities: Campgrounds like Red Creek Campground are more primitive. A reviewer mentioned, "There are vault toilets in the center of the loop, but bring your own water."
  • Seasonal access: Many campgrounds, such as Laurel Hill State Park Campground, are only open from mid-April to October. A visitor advised, "The site numbering is a bit wonky on the door loop so make sure you look at your map before you start driving the loops."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. One family at Audra State Park Campground enjoyed, "The campground also offers playground, flush toilets, and hot showers."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has firewood available. A camper at Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park mentioned, "Fire wood is overpriced but accessible."
  • Safety first: Keep an eye on kids near water. A reviewer at Tygart Lake State Park Campground noted, "Watch for deer! We saw more deer than usual."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be tricky for larger RVs. A camper at Coopers Rock State Forest warned, "Backing into some of the sites can be tricky with the angles and the ditches along the road."
  • Electric hookups: Make sure to confirm if your chosen campground has electric hookups. A visitor at Five River Campground appreciated, "Full hook up sites were amazing."
  • Plan for waste disposal: Check if the campground has a sanitary dump station. A reviewer at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathhouse is located in the center of the campsites," which can be handy for RVers.

Camping near Paw Paw, West Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Paw Paw, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paw Paw, WV offers a wide range of camping options, with 97 campgrounds and RV parks near Paw Paw, WV and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paw Paw, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paw Paw, WV is Coopers Rock State Forest with a 4.4-star rating from 32 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paw Paw, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Paw Paw, WV.

What parks are near Paw Paw, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Paw Paw, WV that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.