Camping sites near Richwood, West Virginia stretch across the rugged Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 3,000 feet. Temperatures remain cool even during summer months, with July evenings often dropping into the 50s. Most campgrounds in the area utilize self-registration systems and feature primitive amenities compared to more developed regions.
What to do
Fishing the Cranberry: Access prime trout fishing spots directly from camping areas along the Cranberry River system. "The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other," notes a camper at Cranberry River Sites.
Hiking wilderness trails: Explore over 20 miles of trails through the Cranberry Wilderness. According to a visitor at Bishop Knob Campground, "This mountain top ground, located between the Cranberry and Williams Rivers, has 60 sites located along a circle."
Waterfall exploration: Visit the Falls of Hills Creek for a challenging but rewarding experience. "The trail can be difficult, with dozens of steep stairs, but worth the effort to see the 45-foot middle falls and the 65-foot lower falls," reports a camper who stayed in the area.
Paddling opportunities: Take advantage of the lake systems when water levels permit. "While the lake does allow power boating, kayaks and paddle boarding are still very popular as this is an immense 2790-acre lake," notes a visitor about Summersville Lake.
What campers like
Remote wilderness experience: Campers consistently praise the isolation and quiet of Richwood-area camping. "If your looking for a weekend getaway or a week long rest. Look no farther," writes a reviewer at Cranberry River Sites.
Diverse camping options: The area offers everything from established sites to primitive riverside spots. "There are also good tent camping sites along the Cranberry River and more sites in the Bishop Knob campground, plus free shelters for backpackers long the 16-mile Cranberry Wilderness Trail," mentions a visitor.
Abundant wildlife: The forest setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. "We heard and/or saw some wildlife/signs of wild life. No bears which is good I guess, we were careful not to attract them to our campsite," reports a camper at Big Rock Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Several camping areas near Richwood offer low-cost or free options. "Whenever we go and rock climb at New River Gorge on a budget, we stay at this free site. They have CLEAN bathrooms, water hookups, showers, tables, fire rings, and grills," shares a visitor at Gauley Tailwaters Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Communication options are restricted in most camping areas. "The upper sites you can get a faint ATT signal," notes a camper at Summit Lake Campground, one of the few locations with any connectivity.
Bear safety protocols: Food storage precautions are essential in this region. "You will hear hoot owls and an occasional team of hounds on the mountain hunting for raccoons. There are many black bears in the area that love to get into any cooler left out in the open," warns a camper.
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can be challenging. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill," reports one visitor about local access roads.
Supply planning: Richwood is the last reliable source for supplies. "Make sure you gas up and get any necessary supplies in Richwood because you won't find any services near this campground," advises a visitor to Big Rock Campground.
Water level variability: River conditions fluctuate significantly with rainfall. "The water was very low when I visited in September, so I didn't have to compete for a camping spot," mentions a camper, indicating how seasonal changes affect both water activities and campground occupancy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose family-friendly campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site," shares a visitor at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Swimming locations: Identify safe spots for children to cool off. "The lake swimming was fun (something I am not used to since I am from Florida). Lots of spiders around our site...but hey you are camping! Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn!" reports a family camper.
Activity planning: Pack games and activities for children when not hiking or fishing. "They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store. Very quiet at night," notes a parent who camped with a four-year-old.
Temperature preparation: Bring extra layers for children even in summer. "The temperature is always ten or so degrees cooler at the campground because you are in the mountains and at the basin next to the cool stream. Packing gear for the hot of the day and the cool of the night is essential even in July."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are big, easily accessible, clean, and not too close to your neighbors," writes one RV camper, though others note: "most sites are not level at all."
Power limitations: RV campers should prepare for potential power issues. "A/C power was an issue. 1 camper had 30 amp breaker blow 2 days in a row and my 50 amp ran A.C. units fan but didn't cool all day," reports a camper at Babcock State Park Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "There is a dump station for an extra $5 fee," notes a visitor about one campground's facilities, while others lack any sanitation facilities for RVs.
Length restrictions: Larger rigs may find limited suitable sites. "There is plenty of gravel parking pad for large RV/Campers at all the sites and are angled for trailer back-in," mentions a visitor, though not all camping areas near Richwood can accommodate large vehicles.
