Camping areas near Princeton, West Virginia range from free National Park Service sites to full-service RV resorts. The region sits at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet in the Appalachian Mountains, with summer temperatures typically reaching the 80s and winter lows below freezing. Fall camping attracts visitors seeking foliage views but requires planning for temperature variations of 30+ degrees between day and night.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access for all skill levels. Army Camp in New River Gorge offers shoreline paths and nearby mountain trails. One visitor noted, "There are three very nice, somewhat primitive, free, campgrounds located within six miles of each other right outside Prince, WV. Grandview Sandbar and Glades Creek along one side of the New River and Army Camp across the Rt 41 bridge and downriver."
Biking routes: The New River Trail system connects to multiple camping areas with paved surfaces for family riding. At Meador Campground, "All the roads are paved making it easy for the little ones to ride bikes," while another camper mentioned, "The park is awesome with beautiful views and many roads to bike on."
Water recreation: Campers access swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities directly from campgrounds. One Bluestone State Park visitor described their experience: "We stayed in Meador site 14, which was the furthest away from the bath house (still only maybe 150 yards), but it was on the water & was the most secluded. It was freshly mowed, had a fire ring, picnic table, & was right on the water with nice views of the lake & mountains."
What campers like
Mountain views: Several RV parks near Princeton offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. A Summer Wind RV Park camper commented, "Amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures." Another visitor added, "This campground has views of the West Virginia mountains and overlooks a cow pasture."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently spot deer, birds, and other wildlife at Princeton area campgrounds. At Meador Campground, a visitor reported, "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay."
Convenience to trails: Many campsites provide direct access to hiking, biking, and ATV trails. At Hilltop Escape, "Clean, well maintained campground. Rv sites are large and easy access to back into your site. Fire pits and picnic tables. Restaurant right next door. Cabin and camper rentals very well kept. Trails are literally out your front door."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly in this region, particularly in spring and fall. After rainfall at Army Camp, one camper warned: "At this visit, after a night of rainfall, the New River has swollen beyond its boundaries by 50 feet or more on either shoreline... When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive…30 ft from our tent pad."
Potable water access: Some free camping areas lack water sources, requiring advance planning. At Army Camp, "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."
Seasonal facilities: Many campground amenities close during off-season periods. One Fort Chiswell camper noted, "There is a very clean pool, but it was not open," and Pipestem visitors sometimes find limited services in winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreational areas for children. At Lake Ridge RV Resort, "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RVs/campers."
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting camping experience without tents, several sites provide cabin options. One visitor described their Meador experience: "We stayed a weekend in one of the many cabins at the Campground; pet friendly! The RV/Tent camping sites were closed. Cabin was stocked with minimal kitchen ware, we brought in our groceries, in the town of Hinton there are a couple of grocery stores; so easy access."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide recreational activities beyond outdoor pursuits. A Lake Ridge RV Resort visitor shared, "We spent one evening playing in the arcade room where I may currently hold the high score on one of the pinball machines."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Several RV parks require careful navigation on mountain roads. A Fort Chiswell RV Park visitor 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."
Site spacing: RV parks near Princeton vary considerably in site spaciousness. At Fort Chiswell, "RV sites aren't really spacious, but are shaded with a picnic bench. No fire pits allowed," while at Summer Wind RV Park, a camper noted, "All pull thru, full hookup, and level sites."
Arrival timing: Popular RV parks fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor to Army Camp advised, "Spots fill quickly," while another recommended, "If you're planning on coming here, make sure and come early."
