Five River Campground in Parsons sits at approximately 1,690 feet elevation along the Shavers Fork River in the Allegheny Mountains region. The campground spans nearly 60 acres with terrain ranging from riverside flats to rolling hills, creating distinct camping environments within the property. Winter temperatures average 25-40°F while summer months typically see 70-85°F daytime temperatures with frequent afternoon showers.
What to do
Hike to Douglas Falls: Located near Parsons, this scenic waterfall can be accessed via the Blackwater Canyon Trail. "We took a hike to Douglas Falls on the Blackwater Canyon trail and really did some necessary healing from the world here," notes one visitor to Five River Campground.
Fish for smallmouth bass: The Shavers Fork River offers productive fishing opportunities directly from riverfront camping areas. A visitor to Revelle's River Resort shared their experience: "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish."
Explore nearby state parks: Multiple state parks within 30-45 minutes provide additional recreation options. "From Canaan Valley Resort State Park there are soooo many places to visit. Bear Rock and Dolly Sods for beautiful views and delicious berry picking. Also great hiking here," explains a camper at Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The region offers extensive trail systems for riders of all skill levels. One visitor noted that Canaan Valley Resort features "tons of Mountain Bike trails, indoor and outdoor pools. Civil war reenactments when we came."
What campers like
Private riverside camping: Many campgrounds offer direct river access for wading, tubing, and fishing. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "there's so much to do at this park! Multiple waterfalls, awesome hikes, a lake, a nature center for the kids, a petting zoo."
Nearby small towns: The towns of Davis and Thomas provide dining and shopping options. A visitor to Blackwater Falls noted, "Spent the day in Thomas looking at local art & antiques. The evening in Davis eating at hellbender burritos. Hiked some cool trails in the park and to see the falls."
Exceptional star viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates ideal stargazing conditions. A camper at Swallow Falls State Park recalled, "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!"
Seasonal festivities: Many campgrounds host special events throughout the year. Five River Campground holds a major Bluegrass Festival each August that draws "thousands of attendees here from over ten countries."
What you should know
Weather patterns: The mountain region experiences frequent afternoon rain showers, especially in summer months. One visitor to Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower advised, "If you visit in the fall bring long sleeves because it is windy and quite a few degrees cooler then down below."
Campsite selection: Site layouts and amenities vary significantly within the same campground. A Blackwater Falls visitor noted, "The campground is very oddly laid out... Choose your site wisely!"
Wildlife awareness: Bears and raccoons are common in the area, requiring proper food storage. At Tygart Lake State Park, a camper warned, "There is a HUGE raccoon problem here, even during the day... Many people bring an extra tent to keep their food in."
Local supplies: Most campgrounds are within 5-15 minutes of basic provisions. Five River Campground campers appreciate that "grocery store, gas station and a family dollar all within a 5 min drive or walk."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and accessible trails. "There is a little park for the kids, it could use a little TLC! But we didn't spend much time there. There is a huge field that the kids enjoyed kite flying," shared a family who visited Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature centers with programs for children. A Blackwater Falls visitor mentioned, "There's a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent."
Safety considerations: Sites near water require extra vigilance with young children. At Swallow Falls State Park, a parent noted, "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons... the campground was so close to the nature that we wanted to see. We went to see the falls and they were within walking distance from our campsite."
Glamping options for families: Luxury camping near Parsons offers more comfortable accommodations for families with young children. Several resorts provide luxury canvas tents and yurts with proper beds and electricity.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Reserve well in advance for sites with complete services. A visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest shared, "The RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently... the site we were in had electric hookup for 50a/30a/20a but no water at the site."
Site selection for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have limited level spaces for bigger RVs. A Blackwater Falls camper warned, "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds in the area. One camper at Five River Campground pointed out that "it is one of the only campgrounds in all of WV where you have cell service...and wifi!"
Glamping in Parsons, West Virginia vs. traditional RVing: For those without an RV, the luxury glamping accommodations at several campgrounds provide a comfortable alternative with many of the same amenities RVers enjoy, without needing to own or rent an RV.
