Camping options near Pipestem, West Virginia sit within the Appalachian Plateau region at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,800 feet. This mountainous terrain creates distinct microclimates where temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees at night even during summer months. Several campgrounds near Pipestem remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for potential snowfall and temperatures that regularly dip below freezing.
What to do
Trail hiking from camp: 1-2 miles: Camp Creek State Park offers multiple trails accessible directly from the campground. "From our campsite we had access to very pretty trails. You can hike to one of the waterfalls or along the creek," notes camper Katrin M. The park features two waterfalls that are "easily accessible and were beautiful even without an abundance of water," according to Dawn M.
Fishing: Abundant smallmouth bass: Multiple fishing spots are available along Bluestone Lake. "There's a nice trailhead right nearby" at Meador Campground, where many sites provide direct water access. Jeff E. mentions seeing "about a half dozen skunks" while camping, so proper food storage is essential when fishing this area.
Swimming: Natural water access: Several campgrounds provide swimming opportunities in natural settings. Grandview Sandbar offers "river access steps from your campsite" with "upclose and personal riverside camping." Tucker B. enjoyed "evening river dips before bed" during summer stays, noting that water levels can change rapidly after rainfall.
What campers like
Racoon-proof trash management: Brushcreek Falls RV Resort maintains very clean facilities. "Very clean and well kept campground," reports Noel L. The campground has implemented effective wildlife management systems that keep the grounds tidy without attracting unwanted visitors.
Mountain views at sunrise: Many campsites feature excellent vantage points for morning views. "Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds," writes Eric H. about Brushcreek Falls. Campers at multiple locations mention the early morning views as a highlight of their stay, particularly during spring and fall months.
Variety of site locations: Little Beaver State Park offers diverse site options. "Sites are big and spread out. It's quiet. Walking trails all over," reports Heather H., who appreciated that "sites are wooded." Todd S. calls Little Beaver "fabulous. Sites with water and electric hookup 1-20. Spacious, private."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Not all facilities operate year-round. Jessica D. notes at Camp Creek: "Even though the campground is open year round, the bathrooms are not. We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers report wildlife sightings. "There were TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation)," reports Jay N. at Meador Campground. Skunks, raccoons, and bears are present throughout the region, requiring proper food storage.
Train noise at riverside sites: Army Camp and other riverside campgrounds experience periodic train noise. "Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing," according to Van M., but Mystic S. warns "trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7" and "the vibrations through the ground coming from the trains was enough to wake me up every couple hours."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Check operating status: The tram system at Pipestem Resort State Park undergoes periodic maintenance. "They also have a tram that's closed right now for refurbishing," noted Cynthia K. in a recent stay. Always call ahead to confirm which amenities are operational during your planned visit.
Water activities: Budget accordingly: Pipestem RV Park & Campground offers water recreation options that may require additional fees. Andrew S. mentions "swimming on the lake with inflatables" as a popular activity, while others note that pool access sometimes requires payment even for campers.
Playground options: Multiple locations: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas. Jennifer S. mentions "They also had a nicely updated park for the kids to play" at Pipestem. Sites with open fields provide additional play space for children, though shade can be limited in these areas during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Many campsites have unusual utility layouts. Swain K. notes at Pipestem, "Electrical hook up was on the opposite side of where they should be and in the middle of the small area." Pack extra-long power cords and water hoses to accommodate these configurations.
Size limitations: Scout ahead: Most campgrounds have specific size limitations. At Little Beaver State Park, Adam and Suzanne B. advise "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Pipestem: Check site specifics: While most campgrounds in the area welcome pets, specific rules vary. Molly F. recommends Pipestem for pet owners, noting "Kids loved biking around campground, very safe" which also benefits those with dogs that need exercise. Leash requirements are strictly enforced at all dog-friendly campgrounds around Pipestem.
Legend
