135 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Sandstone, West Virginia serves as a gateway to numerous camping opportunities within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Meadow Creek Campground offers tent-only camping with 17 free first-come, first-served sites, while Army Camp provides free dispersed camping for tents and RVs. The region includes multiple National Park Service campgrounds such as Glade Creek and Grandview Sandbar, plus nearby state park options like Little Beaver State Park with cabins and RV hookups. Most National Park campgrounds are primitive with vault toilets and no water sources.
Road conditions vary significantly when accessing remote camping areas. Glade Creek Campground requires crossing a narrow one-lane bridge on a gravel road, while War Ridge Campground involves a "1 mile curvy mountain climb" that may challenge larger vehicles. Several campgrounds feature active railroad tracks nearby, with Meadow Creek experiencing trains "at all hours of day and night" that are "so loud you can feel the vibrations." Cell service ranges from spotty to non-existent at most primitive sites, though some campers report having 1-2 bars of service. "The camp is presumably shaded year-round and is completely free," noted one visitor about Glade Creek Campground.
Camping along the New River ranks highly among visitors for scenery and accessibility. Tent sites at Meadow Creek are described as "flat, large and spaced out," though newer trees provide minimal shade or privacy. Several visitors mentioned abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at Glade Creek where one camper reported hearing barred owls at night. Waterfront access represents a common feature across multiple campgrounds, with sites at Berry's Campground occupying "prime riverfront location." Winter camping remains possible at some locations, with one visitor noting Meadow Creek Campground is "open year round - a no hunting campsite." Campers consistently note the value of free National Park Service campgrounds, though they recommend arriving early on weekends as the limited sites fill quickly.
"There is five drive-in sites and more walk-in sites on the edge of the camp. The drive-in sites filled and vacated several times throughout the weekend."
"the campsite is pretty far back into the gorge at the end of a dead end road, which inherently gives it a little bit of an advantage for those who wish to be not just off grid but away from"the madding"
"This CCC State Park is very picturesque and has several hiking trails and the man-made lake is small but offers plenty of recreation possibilities. I found the layout a little strange."
"Note that there is a walking path that runs directly behind the site and will take you over to loop 2. There weren't too many people using it while we were there though."
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability"New River, just outside of Prince, WV off Route 41 offers upclose and personal riverside camping."
"Through Traffic: Access to the boat ramp is through the campground. Though, traffic is minimal, folks on the way to the ramp and picnic area often drive pretty fast."
"The most photographed place in west Virginia is the grist mill. Awesome trails all around."
"Babcock State Park, located in the thriving megapolis of Clifton, West Virginia is postcard perfect!"
from $33 / night
Check Availability"I’ve spent over 150 days camping and hiking in West Virginia n the past four years and keep finding new, wonderful places to enjoy."
"Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite. Very clean pit toilet bathroom. Road to access is single lane paved/gravel. Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds."
"Tucked away by the river past Thurmond. Great secluded sites. Trailhead for hiking from camp."
"We put our tent a few feet away from the water facing the river and our canopy further up in the woods by the firepit."
"Quick access to 64 and Sandstone Visitor Center. The biggest con to this is the multi-track railroad right next to the campground."
"The meadows are a wonderful little gem, although they can be a bit loud due to their proximity to the train tracks."
"This campground rests by Bluestone Lake, which is where the Bluestone River runs runs into the New River."
"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 (just meaning it's at the end of the row not"
"We wanted to be near New River Gorge National Park and the interstate. Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. "
"This campground has views of the West Virginia mountains and overlooks a cow pasture. So much fun to stay at."
from $30 - $35 / night
Check Availability"My only complaint was around 2200 when someone, probably a local, drove in and started a fire while listening to country music on their car stereo."
RangerThis campground provides an off the main road and in the woods experience. Tents have grassy spots and elevated platforms overlooking the area. There are several camper/RV spots along with cabins of various sizes. A calm creek runs through the property and within minutes of the New River National Park visitor center, downtown Fayetteville, and other adventure businesses.
TravelerEasy to get to, parking and bathrooms nearby, kayak access, 3+ mile trail access, cell service is reliable
GuideNice place to camp very relaxing.
GuideWe where the only ones there
ScoutOn west side of Summersville lake, 18 free first come campsites, drive-in, level. Vault toilets, no water. Picnic tables, grill and fire ring. Access to free swimming across road at winter boat ramp. Sandy beach swimming down the road for $5. Lake is clear and warm.
ScoutOnly one campground on the east side of Summersville lake, run by private family. “Primitive “ sites have no paved area to park. Just picnic tables on the grass, close together, hilly, and no shade. $25-45/ night. Across the lake on the west side we stayed at Gauley Tailwaters cg, 18 drive-in sites, Army Corps of Engineers, Free. Access to swimming across the road at the winter boat ramp.
TravelerAs others have reported, the 11 sites here are well maintained and spaced apart nicely. The road in is narrow and has a lot of low hanging limbs, so no big rigs here. It’s quiet apart from the sounds of the river and the bugs. Generators are allowed except for between 10p-6a. Verizon has no service here. Half the sites get decent exposure to charge the solar, the other half are mostly shade. The protected river bottom meant no breeze for the 5 nights we were here, so it remained hot and buggy. But overall it’s a great spot away from the madness. Most of the spots got filled every night during the week at the end of August with a lot of daily turnover, so arrive early.
ScoutThis is a great campground with hostel vibes. There’s ample space and lots of amenities. The staff are very knowledgeable for daily activities if you’re not sure of what to do.
TravelerWe came late an did not get a campsite. So, being that we have a camper van, we stayed in the large on site parking area.
Very nice site. No cell service. Pit Toilets only. No water or electric. However, well maintained and great spot for our dog to enjoy.
We just needed a single night and this suited our needs well. It is a little out of the way just for a single night, but think of the adventure.
The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve surrounds Sandstone, West Virginia, offering camping options along elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 feet. Seasonal temperature shifts are significant, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter nights frequently dropping below freezing. Rain patterns affect water levels throughout the year, making conditions near the New River unpredictable.
Night sky viewing: At Army Camp Campground, visitors can experience exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "War Ridge is beautiful! I am alone up here (no other campers) and the night sky is amazing. Perk: you have cell signal. It is quiet and peaceful and the view is amazing," notes one visitor.
Fishing access: Fish multiple species along the New River from various campgrounds. The Glade Creek Campground provides direct access to both creek and river fishing. "The second oldest river in the world new river meet glade creek at the campgrounds. This place has trails that are to die for," shares a camper who appreciates the water access.
Wildlife observation: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities beyond what's available at developed sites. "Heard a Barred Owl at night. Was able to let my dog off the leash down by the river to play and even played frisbee in our campsite and on the camp road," reports a Glade Creek visitor who enjoyed the natural setting.
Free camping options: Several National Park Service campgrounds charge no fee, with Stone Cliff Campground offering a unique riverside experience. "Location was amazing. Sites are first come first served, no reservation needed. Plenty of parking with 6+ isolated camp sites, all with view of river," writes one camper who appreciated the accessibility.
Accessible facilities: Wheelchair-accessible sites are available at select locations. "Showed up Saturday evening and was able to get a great spot with a view of the river," mentions a visitor to Grandview Sandbar Campground, referencing the handicap-accessible spots that provide prime river views.
Privacy between sites: Campground layout varies significantly across the area. "Private and beautiful. We went in the middle of the week, on a Tuesday. It had been raining a lot the days before but did not rain at all the three days we stayed. It was incredibly private, we were the only ones staying overnight," shares a Stone Cliff camper about the secluded nature of certain sites.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds, affecting sleep quality. At Meadow Creek Campground, "They go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations." The tent-only campground has 17 free first-come, first-served sites.
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites vary in quality and difficulty. The route to War Ridge Campground includes a "1 mile curvy mountain climb to get here but our 30 ft class A made it just fine!!" according to one RVer who successfully navigated the challenging terrain.
Water availability: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. "No sources of freshwater available @ the campground. The nearest convenient store is some miles away," notes a Glade Creek visitor, emphasizing the need to bring your own supplies.
Weather impact: Rapid weather changes can affect camping conditions. "It rained the entire time I was there, yet I still enjoyed my stay. Campsite was clean and the other campers were quiet," shares a Grandview Sandbar visitor who experienced typical regional precipitation.
Playground proximity: Little Beaver State Park offers developed recreation facilities for children. "A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade. Lots of lovely trails to explore," according to a visitor who found the amenities family-friendly.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature river access suitable for supervised water play. "Big beach area to play in the water so perfect for my dog and kid. No one was around so we had the place to ourselves but each area is well spaced," reports a Glade Creek visitor who enjoyed the riverside recreation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer regular wildlife encounters that engage children. "We enjoyed a hike around the lake and then went on our way. I will be back for their camping season and to check out more of the trails," shares a Little Beaver visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Leveling challenges: Many primitive sites require effort to level larger rigs. "Summer Wind was inexpensive compared to some other places we stopped in West Virginia. Highly recommend the Sandstone Visitors Center in the national park, and a visit to Hinton," notes a visitor to Summer Wind RV Park, highlighting the advantages of a commercial campground with level sites.
Hook-up availability: Limited full-service sites exist in the immediate Sandstone area. "Amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures," shares a Summer Wind camper about the developed facilities.
Bridge clearance concerns: Some campground access roads include narrow bridges. "The Glade Creek Road to the campground is not too bad but there is a narrow one-lane bridge you must cross," cautions a visitor about the infrastructure limitations that may challenge wider vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I camp near Sandstone Falls in West Virginia?
Several camping options exist near Sandstone Falls in West Virginia. Grandview Sandbar Campground offers free camping with basic toilet facilities and convenient drive-in access within New River Gorge National Park. For those seeking riverside camping with more amenities, Stone Cliff Campground provides another free option with toilet facilities and beautiful river views. Both campgrounds offer easy access to Sandstone Falls and are perfect bases for exploring the area. If you're willing to travel slightly farther, Battle Run Campground on Summersville Lake provides additional recreation opportunities with swimming, fishing, and hiking options.
What facilities are available at Sandstone Campground?
Facilities at campgrounds near Sandstone typically include basic amenities suited for various camping styles. Summer Wind RV Park offers electric hookups (30 amp available), stunning mountain views, and accommodates RVs in a peaceful setting overlooking pastures. For a more primitive experience, Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite provides basic camping with access to the scenic rail trail. Most campgrounds in the area offer toilet facilities, and some provide water access. It's advisable to bring your own drinking water for primitive sites and check ahead for specific amenities as they vary by location.
What activities can I do at Sandstone Falls while camping?
Sandstone Falls offers numerous outdoor activities for campers. The area is perfect for hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. While staying at Babcock State Park Campground, you can visit the iconic grist mill (the most photographed spot in West Virginia) and explore spectacular trails. Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park provides excellent river access for fishing, swimming, and paddling, plus connections to fantastic rail trails. The New River Gorge region around Sandstone Falls is also renowned for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking, and photography opportunities, making it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise in all seasons.
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