Tent camping near Pipestem, West Virginia offers primitive sites amid the Appalachian foothills, with many locations sitting at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs typically in the 80s and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. While several campgrounds operate year-round, Bull Falls and Indian Mills camping areas in the wildlife management areas maintain a mid-April to mid-October season.
What to do
Fishing access: Old Mill Campground provides excellent catfishing opportunities on Bluestone Lake. "The marina where we got to rent a boat and the catfish were plentiful," reports one visitor who enjoyed both camping and fishing at this location.
Disc golf: Camp Success offers a complete disc golf course alongside its tent camping area. "There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," notes a regular visitor to this Narrows, VA location.
River activities: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for swimming, though current strength varies by location. At East Shore Campground, one camper noted it's "a good place" with "some sites along water" making it ideal for "fishing" and "water activities."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous tent pads at many Pipestem area campgrounds. At Meadow Creek Campground, a visitor observed, "Sites are flat, large and spaced out," making them comfortable for multiple tents or larger camping setups.
Riverside locations: Many campers seek sites with water views and direct river access. "There was plenty of room for 4 tents right along the river," reported a camper who stayed at Stone Cliff Campground, though they also noted the terrain had some challenges: "It was a little rocky, but nothing a sleeping pad wouldn't take care of."
Fishing opportunities: Bluestone Lake and New River provide ample fishing options. A visitor to Old Mill Campground mentioned, "We enjoyed hiking the trails, swimming in the lake and sitting by our campfire," highlighting the combination of activities available at many sites.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong valley winds can affect tent stability in some locations, particularly at lower elevations. One camper at Meadow Creek noted, "The wind is also very strong and without strong anchors could easily pull up your tent."
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines, which affects the camping experience. "The multi-track railroad right next to the campground. They go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations," warns a Meadow Creek visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary widely across campgrounds. At Indian Mills Camping Area, "The bathroom/shower facilities are slightly better than primitive, but clean. You'll find running water, fire ring and picnic table at each site."
Site access: Some campgrounds require additional effort to reach. At Stone Cliff, a visitor explained the sites are "walk-in first come first serve" with some located "about half a mile into the trail."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, swimming access varies by location. At Old Mill Campground, one visitor shared, "They had a swimming pool and it was clean. I loved the lake. Big and beautiful."
Terrain awareness: Some campgrounds have challenging access points that might be difficult with young children. One visitor to Stone Cliff noted, "We had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site," which prevented them from camping with their vehicle.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent opportunities for nature observation. At Stone Cliff Campground, "It was incredibly private...There were some visitors throughout the days, hiking, fishing, and a lot of white water rafters."
Tips from RVers
RV restrictions: Some previously RV-friendly sites now limit access. At Meadow Creek Campground, "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."
Alternative parking: For RV campers visiting tent-only sites, consider nearby parking options. "You can camp here for free on first come first serve basis. Also can access by boat if taking a trip on the river," notes a visitor to Stone Cliff, where some campers park at the lot and walk to tent sites.
