The New River Gorge region surrounding Saulsville sits at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. The area receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, making spring camping occasionally muddy but ensuring lush vegetation. Local campgrounds span from primitive free sites to full-service RV parks with varying degrees of accessibility on narrow mountain roads.
What to do
Hiking old railroad beds: The Glade Creek Trail follows a historic narrow gauge railroad bed with moderate terrain. "Being early in the spring, there was still some deadfall across parts of the trail that required some maneuvering and even though it is a raised old narrow gauge RR bed, it still got muddy. Several trails break off Glade Creek trail...and worth taking," notes a visitor to Glade Creek Campground.
Water activities: The New River provides swimming and fishing opportunities during warmer months. At Army Camp, one camper shared, "Area for people to swim in the river or fish. One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet." However, use caution as another visitor warns, "Exercise greater wisdom than I did" after noticing the river swelling significantly even hours after rainfall.
Ziplining and inflatables: Many campgrounds offer recreational amenities beyond hiking. "There has been a lot of nice upgrades to the grounds and facilities as well as things to do at Pipestem since my last review a few years ago... there are a lot of new activities to do at Pipestem close to the campground on the Pipestem park property such as ziplining and swimming on the lake with inflatables," explains a repeat visitor.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate sites with direct water access. "It's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river... I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," notes a camper at Army Camp. The sound of flowing water creates natural white noise for sleeping.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports numerous bird and animal species. One camper described their experience: "Song birds, robins and crows competed vocally during daylight hours. Interesting insects crawled the river's sandy shore and a brightly colored Eastern box turtle searched for higher-dryer ground."
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the comfortable spacing between sites. "We spent a night here on our way to Ohio. It has a small loop of campsites near the river. Campsites were mowed and it was a short walk to a really nice spot on the river," notes a visitor to Army Camp. At Pipestem RV Park & Campground, another camper appreciates that "the campground is quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking."
What you should know
Water availability: Most free campgrounds lack potable water. "Note: vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River...which I wouldn't recommend," explains a camper from Army Camp. Plan to bring sufficient water for your stay or research filtration options.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," reported one Army Camp visitor, while another noted, "There's no AT&T service upon arrival. A few spots you could locate a bar to send a message, but that's it."
Reservation systems: Some private rv sites near Saulsville, West Virginia operate on unique reservation systems. At Summer Wind RV Park, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for children. "The playground faciilities are good and clean and they even have a washer and dryer hookup," noted a visitor to Pipestem, while another mentioned enjoying "lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife habits for safety. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getting any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must," warns a camper at Pipestem. Secure food items properly and maintain clean campsites.
Space considerations: For families requiring room to spread out, look for campgrounds with ample site space. A visitor to Backwoods Camping & RV Park noted, "Several cabins, RV spots and grassy tent areas. The staff are very easy to work with - they will sell and chop the wood you need, let you put your tent in any of the open grass areas around the lot."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Several rv sites near Saulsville require careful navigation. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in," noted one Army Camp visitor, while another specified, "It's a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by."
Pad surface quality: RV parking pads vary across campgrounds. At Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, "The sites are long but pretty close together. Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds. Gravel parking pads." Consider stabilizers for potentially uneven surfaces.
Hookup consistency: Electrical service can fluctuate. "Starlink access was excellent as there is not a single tree to obstruct the view," reported a Summer Wind visitor regarding satellite internet, providing an alternative to spotty cellular connectivity for remote workers staying at RV sites near Saulsville.
