Several free dispersed camping options near Pipestem provide alternatives to established RV parks. Army Camp Campground in New River Gorge National Park offers ten primitive sites on a gravel loop at no cost. The campground sits in a narrow river valley between steep wooded mountains with elevations ranging from 2500-3200 feet. Campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions throughout the year, with summer temperatures reaching the upper 80s and winter bringing occasional snow.
What to do
Swimming access: 30-minute drive to Army Camp Campground where "river dips before bed" are popular during summer months. The campground provides "easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite" according to Caroline F.
Hiking on old railway trails: Visit Glade Creek Campground to access "an old railroad runs by glade creek and it is incredible" as noted by Jonda M. The trail follows a former narrow gauge railroad bed with several connecting paths branching off.
Fishing for variety of species: Near Stone Cliff Beach, anglers can access specific information about "species, bait, and lures" as mentioned by Jean C. The New River Gorge website offers detailed guidance for catching the numerous fish species inhabiting the river.
Explore abandoned settlements: Within a short drive of most campgrounds, the ghost town of Thurmond provides historic buildings to explore. "The campground is very close to the abandoned town of Thurmond (very cool site to see)" reports Kaylee F.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Stone Cliff Campground, "it was incredibly private" with "sites distance from each other and the wooded area" creating separation between camping groups. According to Gracey L., "site 7 was definitely the most private" though "people walking on the trail walk right by your camp."
Free established camping: Several reviewers noted the value of developed sites without fees. "Hard to beat a free campsite right on the river" mentions Tucker B., while Rachel S. adds "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide nature observation opportunities. At Meador Campground "there were TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation)" according to Jay N., while Stone Cliff Beach features diverse bird and insect species.
Accessibility to water activities: Riverview Campground offers "spots by the river and ramp is available to access river" though be aware that "access river from some sites, but steep in some areas" according to Alicia L. who enjoyed "sitting by the river at night with a fire going."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location and carrier. At Army Camp Campground, Tucker B. reports "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)." Some sites offer limited signal: "a few spots you could locate a bar to send a message, but that's it."
Limited potable water: Most primitive campgrounds require bringing your own water. Dave V. notes this is "vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River…which I wouldn't recommend."
Weather impacts: River levels fluctuate rapidly with rainfall. After storms, "the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive…30 ft from our tent pad" observed one camper, who advises "exercise greater wisdom than I did."
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds have restricted access routes. At Shady Rest RV Park "there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up" cautions Casey L., though "some large rigs got through it just don't go fast."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Meador Campground has "playgrounds need upgraded" but "lots of space to run around for the kids" notes Jeremiah S., who added that "it rained one day we were there and we took a quick drive to Pipestem and swam in the heated, indoor pool."
Recreation alternatives: During poor weather, consider nearby indoor facilities. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures" for family fishing outings.
Safety near water: Rivers in the region have powerful currents requiring supervision. "Use extreme prudence if choosing to enter the New River itself. This is an incredibly popular whitewater rafting and paddling river…currents are fast, powerful and dangerous."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for nighttime visitors. "The racoons at night have a schedule of getty any foods left out. Putting everything away is a must" advises Andrew S. Other campers reported encounters with "skunks" that "kept me on edge" at Meador Campground.
Tips from RVers
Best RV hookup options: Brushcreek Falls RV Resort offers "nice campground" with "very clean and well kept" facilities. Heather H. noted "Spots are long but pretty close together" and advised "We're a triple axl so we had to take it nice and slow getting there with the road and even navigating the property but it was fine."
Water pressure considerations: According to RVers, water pressure fluctuates throughout the region. "The only downside was the fact that there were about a half dozen skunks" at Meador Campground according to Jeff E., making nighttime trips to refill water containers challenging.
Seasonal availability: Summer Wind RV Park operates May through October with "pull thru 30/50 amp spots" and Randy G. notes "No on-site management, you have to txt for reservations" and "AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars."
Parking pad surfaces: Most RV campgrounds in the region use gravel pads. At Fort Chiswell RV Park, "Each campsite has a level space, shade, and picnic table. Full hook ups, including cable!" though Cat R. mentions "Just wish there was a wildlife area with flowers here."
