The New River Gorge region near Prince, West Virginia sits at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,200 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the area. This section of the Appalachians features sandstone cliffs and dense hardwood forests that provide natural shelter for campers. Fall temperatures typically drop into the 40s overnight, while summer highs average in the mid-80s with significant humidity.
What to do
Train watching from riverside camps: At Stone Cliff Campground, campers can observe trains from their sites. As one visitor noted, "Trains would go by every few hours, it didn't bother us much but it could be annoying to some people. It was also veryyy cold in the mornings but that was due to going in spring" (Gracey L.).
Mountain biking from camp: Arrowhead Bike Farm offers direct trail access. "Mt biking from the campground - a bike shop, food and beverages, showers, and goats! Great for families, too. Great people and fun, but was quiet for sleeping," reports camper Cydney S.
Disc golf between adventures: Chestnut Creek Campground features an on-site course. A visitor mentioned, "Has a Frisbee/Disc Golf Course. Close to rivers, climbing and hiking activities. Cell reception was great all throughout this area" (Debra W.).
What campers like
Weather protection at tent sites: Little Beaver State Park offers well-designed sites that handle rain well. "This was a great base for visiting New River Gorge NP. The campground is quiet with well space sites. Bathrooms are traditional but clean and functioning well," shared Adam and Suzanne B.
Affordable alternatives to expensive lodging: Army Camp offers free camping with amenities. One camper explained, "We spent a night here on our way to Ohio. It has a small loop of campsites near the river. No electric/water, so plan to be ready to be off grid. Hard to complain about free!" (Kristi D.).
Private riverfront spots: Stone Cliff Campground provides secluded sites. "I loved the experience I had at stone cliff. The camp sites are well marked and maintained. There are some right on the river and a couple more set back closer to the trail," noted Hallie W.
What you should know
Seasonal flood risks: Grandview Sandbar experiences periodic flooding. "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood," warned Chaz M.
Limited cell service in some areas: Army Camp sits in a coverage dead zone. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!). Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," shared Tucker B.
Weekend crowds at popular spots: Local visitors can impact quieter campgrounds. As one camper at Grandview Sandbar noted, "Really nice campground as long as the local crowd has'nt taken over. Been there several times and left early as did other families due the disruptive nonsense of a few" (Dan P.).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Little Beaver State Park offers family-friendly facilities. "I enjoyed this campground. A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade," Michelle W. observed.
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Stone Cliff provides safe water access. A visitor shared, "Beautiful spot on New River. Make sure you remember to print off directions if you are unfamiliar with the area. There are 4 nice spots down on the beach," noted Kaylee F.
Animal encounters: Arrowhead Bike Farm offers unique interactions. "They have goats and miles of bike trails. Their tacos are to die for and the staff is super friendly. I stay here every time I go to the New, almost entirely for the tacos," explained Corey M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Rifrafters Campground offers concrete pads for easier setup. "We had a lovely stay and the hosts were so hospitable. We purchased firewood and they walked it to our campsite. Our site was plenty large and the concrete pad was perfectly level," reported Patience W.
Low clearance navigation: Some entrances require careful driving. One RVer at Rifrafters noted, "The campground is clean and well maintained. It is very much built into a big hill- I was a little worried our Avion (similar to airstream) that had low clearance would bottom out as we came in and out of entrance hill to road but we had no issue" (Cassondra P.).
Small rig alternatives at dog friendly campgrounds near Prince: Babcock State Park accommodates smaller trailers. "Electric back in site. Water and bathhouse available across the road in the other part of the camp ground. Unusual set up," Edison F. mentioned.
Legend
