Peterstown lies in Monroe County, West Virginia, at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet. The surrounding area contains a mix of rugged terrain with valleys carved by the New River and its tributaries. Road access to campgrounds can be challenging during winter months, with many locations closing seasonally from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Gatewood Reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. "There's a large pond stocked with koi fish," notes a visitor to Fort Chiswell RV Park. Fish species include bass, catfish, and trout, with peak fishing season from April through September.
Disc golf course: The 9-hole course at Camp Success operates year-round with no fees. "Beautiful spot on the New River in Giles County, VA located right outside downtown Narrows. There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events," shares a visitor to Camp Success.
Mountain biking: Over 15 miles of trails appropriate for intermediate riders. "Did some Jeep camping here in November. Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Hiking trails all accessible from the camp areas," explains a camper at Claytor Lake State Park Campground.
Kayak rentals: Available at multiple locations for $10-15 per hour. "I didn't camp here, but I took out my kayak at the boat ramp and looked around. Vault M/F toilet, BYOTP. No hookups and I didn't see a water spigot," reports a visitor to Camp Success.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer wooded sites with good separation. "Sites with water and electric hookup 1-20. Spacious, private. We had #9. Level," notes a camper at Little Beaver State Park Campground.
River access: Direct water access for swimming during summer months. "Tent sites on the river, RV sites, RV and cabin rentals and float trips. Lots of space for kids to play," mentions a visitor to Greenbrier River Campground.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Cleanest bathrooms and showers I've seen. Cute little store for firewood...they bring to you. Daily trash pickup," reports a camper at Little Beaver State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Deer, various bird species, and occasional beaver sightings. "You are surrounded by farm land on two sides and it was relaxing watching the cows and sheep graze on the hillsides," shares a camper at Fort Chiswell RV Park.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Many campgrounds have weak or no cell service. "This campground is miles from anywhere so make sure you have what you need or the trip into town will take a while," advises a visitor to Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience periodic train disturbances. "The really bad thing is that there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7," explains a camper at Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Weather considerations: Flooding can occur near river campgrounds after heavy rain. "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious. Car spots lack the view, but they're quiet. Lots of damp in and after a rain," notes a visitor to Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during winter. "This is a nice little campground. Clean and well kept. There is a pool with waterside and game room with bowling and food and much more," shares a reviewer of Wytheville KOA, which operates year-round unlike many seasonal options.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Look for locations with scheduled events. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite," reports a family at Claytor Lake State Park.
Swimming options: Several locations offer designated swimming areas. "We loved this park. Had so much fun there. Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept," shares a visitor to Greenbrier River Campground.
Kid-friendly glamping: For glamping near Peterstown, West Virginia with children, consider the variety of accommodation types. "Only got to spend one night of a two night reservation on the property due to weather. Staff was exceptional and welcoming. Bathhouse was phenomenally clean," notes a family who stayed at Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "I enjoyed this campground. A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade," explains a camper at Little Beaver State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some locations require extra work to level larger rigs. "This campground is good for a one night stopover and we would return for that purpose. Clean, convenient sites off highway 81. Not much privacy between sites," advises an RVer at Claytor Lake State Park.
Hookup locations: Check the placement of utilities before setting up. "Each site has a level space, shade, and picnic table. Full hook ups, including cable!" notes a visitor to Fort Chiswell RV Park.
Pull-through availability: Limited number of pull-through sites at most locations. "We had site 19 which is one of the few pull thrus. We have a triple axl, had plenty of room and the site is wooded," shares an RVer at Little Beaver State Park.
Dump station access: Some stations have unusual configurations. "We just used this park for a night stop over on our return trip from SC. Beautiful park. Had water and electric. Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump," explains an RVer at Little Beaver State Park.
