Tent campsites near Colfax, West Virginia are primarily scattered throughout the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with moderate summer temperatures and cold winters. Access to many campgrounds requires navigating forest service roads that can become challenging during wet weather conditions, particularly at primitive sites east of Colfax.
What to do
Explore boulder formations: Bear Heaven Campground features unique rock formations for climbing and exploration. As camper Adam W. notes, "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders."
Visit fire towers: Several lookout points provide panoramic views of the Monongahela National Forest. "Just a few miles up the mountain you can go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state," mentions Adam W. about adventures from Bear Heaven Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Conaway Run State Lake offers fishing opportunities approximately 20 miles west of Colfax. According to Liz Y., the lake features "Pretty rustic [camping]. Porta potties are all that is available. No running water so you have to bring your own. Lake fishing. Hiking trails. Shooting range."
Water activities: Camp Ara provides lake access for canoeing and fishing. One visitor, Jenn C., reports, "Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing! Cant wait to go back!"
What campers like
Outdoor shower experiences: Abrams Creek Campground offers unconventional bathing facilities that some campers appreciate. Kevin C. describes, "Their were two outdoor shower stalls which were shower curtains next to the shower house."
Secluded environment: Lost Land Run provides a truly disconnected experience for those seeking isolation. Natasha S. explains, "Due to location in-between the tall mountains there is absolutely No CELLPHONE SRRVICE past the first couple campsites and only very spotty at those campsites as well."
Early morning views: Campers particularly enjoy sunrise viewing at certain locations. As Emily M. recommends at Rhododendron Camping Area, "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!"
Long-lasting impressions: The natural setting creates memorable experiences that stay with visitors. "I camped here 20+ years ago when I (a city girl) had just started camping and I still think about how awesome this place was," shares Jen S. about Bear Heaven Campground, adding "We had fun exploring around the campground climbing the boulders."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds lack reliable water sources. At Bear Heaven Campground, there are "Spacious sites with fire pits. Vault toilet and trash," according to Ann P., but as Amber A. notes, there's "no drinking water (bring treatment methods for the stream)."
Bathroom facilities: Bathrooms range from primitive to basic. Emily M. warns about Rhododendron Camping Area that "the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset" and suggests "the bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms."
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna includes potentially dangerous species. Natasha S. advises visitors to Lost Land Run to "Keep an eye out for lots of the more dangerous varieties of wildlife native to the area big cats, snakes galore, bear, coyotes etc but beautiful views if you're ready for an adventure."
Winter closures: Most primitive campgrounds in the region close during winter months due to road conditions and lack of maintenance. Seasonal operations typically run from April through October, with limited winter access at select locations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Camp Ara offers facilities particularly suitable for families with children. Kaitlin B. shares, "The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality. On our second night after taking a HOT shower in one of the lodges we were offered a warm meal."
Trail difficulty considerations: Not all trails are suitable for young children. Regarding Lost Land Run, Natasha S. cautions it is "not recommended for beginners or small children as it is very Rocky, slippery, with too much potential for a serious injury with inexperienced people."
Space between campsites: Look for campgrounds with adequate privacy. At Rhododendron Camping Area, Sienna L. notes, "It is quiet and the sites are spacious."
Easy access to attractions: Some campgrounds offer convenient access to viewpoints. Kaly mentions about Rhododendron Camping Area that "It was walking distance to the beautiful overlook and a great price for what you get."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Colfax lack RV hookups. Primitive campgrounds like Bear Heaven offer no electrical or water connections, requiring self-contained camping.
Width restrictions: Forest service roads leading to many campgrounds have narrow passages unsuitable for larger vehicles. Ed M. notes that Bear Heaven is a "Nice campground that is seldom full. About ten tent sites with firepit, picnic table, clean concrete vault toilt."
Alternative cabin options: For those seeking more comfort than tent camping but still wanting a forest experience, several campgrounds offer cabin rentals. According to Kevin C. at Abrams Creek Campground, "Cabin had electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring thaws and fall rains can make access difficult for non-4WD vehicles. Check road conditions before attempting to reach remote sites, especially after heavy precipitation.
