Tent camping options near Paw Paw, West Virginia range across elevations from 500 to 3,000 feet throughout the Potomac and Cacapon River valleys. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F in higher elevations, while summer brings temperatures averaging in the mid-80s with significant humidity. Local camping areas require visitors to pack out all trash, as many sites lack waste disposal facilities beyond basic vault toilets.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Conaway Run State Lake, anglers can fish for bass, bluegill, and trout in the stocked lake. "Pretty rustic. Porta potties are all that is available. No running water so you have to bring your own. Lake fishing. Hiking trails. Shooting range," notes Liz Y. about the facilities at Conaway Run State Lake.
Mountain biking trails: Explore the extensive trail network near Rhododendron Camping Area with routes suitable for various skill levels. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds! It is quiet and the sites are spacious. There is a bathhouse located closest to site 5 with trails from other sites to get there," shares Sienna L. about Rhododendron Camping Area.
Rock formation exploration: Several campgrounds feature unique geological formations within walking distance of tent sites. "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya! Also the bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms," suggests Emily M. regarding morning activities at Rhododendron.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: The remote settings provide genuine solitude for tent camping near Paw Paw. "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run is a free camping area directly on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail around Mile 99. For those not familiar with the GAP Trail, it is a Rails-to-Trails initiative that travels from Pittsburgh, PA to Cumberland, MD," explains Dave V. about Round Bottom Camping Area.
Riverside access: Many tent campsites provide direct river access for swimming, fishing, or filtering water. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," reports Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground.
Firetower views: Several camping locations offer access to observation towers with panoramic vistas. "Just a few miles up the mountain you can go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state," recommends Adam W. from Bear Heaven Campground.
What you should know
Water limitations: Most tent sites near Paw Paw require campers to bring their own water or filter from streams. "No running water or showers. Close to Elkins and half hour from Davis. Very nice area and primitive campsites to base your outdoor adventures from!" advises Ed M. about Bear Heaven Campground.
Bathroom conditions: Vault toilets are standard at most sites, with variable maintenance. "Usually the vault toilets along this trail are clean, maintained and stocked…but on this visit, piles of trash were inside likely from an overly busy weekend," reports Dave V. about Round Bottom.
Train noise: Railroad tracks near several riverside camping areas create significant nighttime noise. "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River…it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had," warns Dave V.
Tips for camping with families
Boulder exploration: Look for campgrounds with natural features children can safely explore. "The camp ground isn't that large, but if you can find a spot you will be sure to enjoy yourself. Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders," suggests Adam W.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to tent camping near Paw Paw, consider hybrid options. "You can rent a cabin, camp in the woods, or rent a bunkroom or your group. Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing!" recommends Jenn C. about Camp Ara.
Campground hospitality: Some locations offer extra amenities for families. "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more? The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality," shares Kaitlin B. about her Camp Ara experience.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limitations: Most tent camping areas near Paw Paw cannot accommodate RVs due to narrow access roads and limited parking. "This is one of the only free hiker-biker campgrounds along the GAP trail (mile 99.6), and it is laid out similarly to the Dravo Campground, with lean-tos, picnic tables, firepits and lots of spaces for tents," notes Shari G. regarding tent-only accessibility.
Parking considerations: RVers should research designated parking areas near trailheads that access tent camping sites. "Round Bottom Camping Area can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle…or paddlers on the Youghioheny River. Being positioned directly off the GAP Trail grants easy access to those traveling the trail," explains Dave V.
