Primitive tent camping near Peterstown, West Virginia offers access to the New River watershed along the West Virginia-Virginia border. Campsites range from secluded riverside spots to mountain settings with elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with nighttime lows in the 60s, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Fishing spots: At Camp Success, the New River provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Plenty of shade. Closed during flood," notes Sue B., who adds that the boat ramp provides good water access even if not staying overnight.
Disc golf course: Camp Success offers more than just camping with its recreational facilities. "There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," according to Wendy G., making it a versatile destination for active campers.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails of varying difficulty levels branch out from Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management Area. "Nearby, there's archery ranges, horses for rent and an endless amount of trails to hike," reports Stuart K., who recommends getting on the water early when kayaking the New River as "the current on the New River isn't strong, but it's definitely a workout if you get on there midday."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Meadow Creek Campground offers generous tent camping spaces. "Sites are flat, large and spaced out," writes Casey L., though noting "the trees are very newly planted so they provide no shade or privacy." The campground features 17 free first-come, first-served tent-only sites.
Wildlife viewing: Evening hours reveal natural light shows at Meadow Creek Campground. Grant M. describes watching "a cluster of fireflies that looked like a lightning storm," noting the campground is "just off the river and just off the highway, no water."
Secluded locations: Walnut Flats Campground provides a rustic camping experience. "Good hikes nearby, nothing too difficult and all are beautiful. The Appalachian Trail is close to the site, find some thru hikers and make some trail magic!" shares Amber A., highlighting the site's natural setting with "lots of wildlife too."
What you should know
Water access challenges: Water sources vary widely between campgrounds. At Indian Mills Camping Area, Stuart K. reports "running water" at sites, while at East Shore Campground, no drinking water is available and campers must bring their own.
Vehicle requirements: Some camping areas have rough access roads. Stephanie J. advises about Walnut Flats Campground: "Nice campground outside Bland, VA. The road up needs a 4x4. Nice vault toilets and a hand pump water. There are 5 sites at this location."
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active railroad tracks. David at Meadow Creek Campground notes trains "coming as often as every 20 minutes" that are "fun to watch but very loud and frequent," advising campers to prepare for noise throughout the night.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Whitt Riverbend Park offers water recreation for families. "Primitive camping but has plenty of natural wonders to keep you busy!" reports John R., who discovered this "cozy little site not too far from the main highway."
Wind preparations: At exposed sites, secure tent stakes thoroughly. David warns about Meadow Creek Campground: "The wind here is also very strong and without strong anchors could easily pull up your tent. We were having to restake the corners throughout our stay."
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies significantly. At Bluestone State Park, Jeff E. reports "the bathhouse is open air over half of it. Had no soap or toilet paper and the toilets were all plugged up," suggesting families bring their own supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site access warnings: Meadow Creek Campground has restricted RV access. David explains: "The ranger informed us someone who stayed here in a rv had a close call crossing the train tracks and now they have decided to make this campground a tent only place." Campers must cross four sets of active train tracks to reach this campground.
Year-round availability: Some tent campgrounds remain open during winter. Licia S. notes Meadow Creek Campground is "open year round - a no hunting campsite" with reliable cell service: "1 bar of unboosted cell service with ATT with some drop off if raining, but fine for streaming videos."
Equestrian options: Horse campers have dedicated facilities at White Cedar Horse Camp, which features "pipe corral" setups. Dusty V. describes "big trees at the campsites, beautiful place to camp with horses," noting "there is a store 10 minutes away where you can pay to take a hot shower."
