Tent camping near Reedsville, West Virginia offers diverse experiences across elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. Most campgrounds in this region sit within the Appalachian hardwood forests, with mixed stands of oak, maple, and occasional spruce trees. Winter camping is limited at many sites, with most campgrounds operating from April through October due to seasonal road closures after heavy snowfall.
What to do
Hiking to Bickle Knob: Bear Heaven Campground makes a good base camp for exploring nearby trails. "Just a few miles up the mountain you can go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state," explains Adam W.
Boulder exploration: The unique rock formations at Bear Heaven Campground provide natural playground opportunities. "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," notes one camper.
Water activities: Barnum Whitewater Area offers direct river access for tent campers. While the "camping area is kinda packed together, the main draw here is the river," according to Frank G., making it popular with paddlers seeking riverside tent sites.
Early morning views: At Rhododendron Camping Area, early risers can catch spectacular vistas. "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!" suggests Emily M., highlighting an experience not to be missed when tent camping near Reedsville.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Streamside tent sites provide natural white noise for sleeping. At Big Run State Park Campground, "You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds," mentions Katie H., who calls it "one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways."
Secluded environments: Many tent campers appreciate the isolation from technology. Lost Land Run offers a true digital detox with "absolutely No CELLPHONE SERVICE past the first couple campsites and only very spotty at those campsites as well," according to Natasha S.
Spacious sites: Tent campers consistently mention the ample room at most campgrounds. Camp Ara has been described as "the friendliest campsite," with one camper noting, "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more?"
Off-grid experiences: The primitive nature of many sites appeals to those seeking escape. Bear Heaven receives praise as "a perfect WV experience" with "sites wooded and relatively private with basic facilities but no drinking water (bring treatment methods for the stream)."
What you should know
Water access varies: Many tent sites require planning for water. At Bear Heaven, there's "no running water or showers" according to Ed M., who still rated it "nice campground that is seldom full."
Bathroom facilities: Comfort stations differ significantly between locations. Some visitors to Rhododendron Camping Area note limitations: "the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Wildlife awareness: Some campgrounds have more active wildlife. Natasha S. warns tent campers at 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."
Reservation needs: Popular tent sites fill quickly during peak season. One camper advises about Bear Heaven, "It's a very small campground so get here early."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water access: Shallow stream areas work well for young explorers. At Big Run State Park, "The kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing!" shares Andy C.
Choose sites with amenities: For easier family camping, select locations with essential facilities. Abrams Creek Campground offers tent sites with portable toilets that are regularly maintained, and as one visitor noted, "Water was clean and had no oder."
Consider cabin options: When tent camping with children during unpredictable weather, cabins provide backup. At Barnum Whitewater Area, "Small cabins are $35 a night, with larger cabins going at $56 a night. There is electricity in the cabins," notes Frank G.
Select beginner-appropriate trails: Not all hiking paths suit young children. Lost Land Run has "lots of intermediate-difficult hiking trails/paths to explore following the river but it is not recommended for beginners or small children as it is very Rocky, slippery."
Tips from RVers
Hybrid camping setups: Some sites accommodate both tents and small campers. At Big Run State Park, one visitor used "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Access limitations: Larger RVs won't fit at most tent-focused campgrounds near Reedsville. Possum Tail Farm Camp offers tent camping "in the heart of this farm close to a pond," but access roads may limit larger vehicles.
Water fill locations: RVers camping at primitive sites should note water sources. Nathan S. points out that "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park" when staying at Big Run.
