Best Campgrounds near Sandstone, WV

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Sandstone, West Virginia (124)

    1. Glade Creek Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    19 Reviews
    Prince, WV
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "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."

    "Glade Creek Campground has six (6) walk-in tent sites and five (5) drive in sites inside the loop for tents or medium sized RV/Campers."

    2. Grandview Sandbar Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    23 Reviews
    Prince, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "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."

    3. Little Beaver State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Daniels, WV
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 763-2494

    $35 - $40 / night

    "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."

    "This campground is situated in the woods, near Lake. Has a good WFI everywhere, very clean and quiet."

    4. Babcock State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Winona, WV
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 438-3004

    $33 / night

    "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!"

    5. Stone Cliff Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    17 Reviews
    Thurmond, WV
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "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."

    6. Army Camp — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    12 Reviews
    Prince, WV
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "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."

    7. Meador Campground — Bluestone Lake State Park

    9 Reviews
    Nimitz, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 466-2805

    "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"

    8. War Ridge - New River National Scenic River

    6 Reviews
    Meadow Creek, WV
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "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."

    9. Meadow Creek Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    4 Reviews
    Meadow Creek, WV
    2 miles
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "Quick access to 64 and Sandstone Visitor Center. The biggest con to this is the multi-track railroad right next to the campground."

    "Just off the river and just off the highway, no water."

    10. Summer Wind RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Sandstone, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 560-6392

    $30 - $35 / night

    "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."

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Recent Reviews near Sandstone, WV

552 Reviews of 124 Sandstone Campgrounds


  • Irene C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Ace Adventure Resort

    Everything in one place

    Great place. The bathroom/showers were not great but I’m told they are updating those this summer. We came during Bridge Day but I would definitely come back in the summer.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Chestnut Creek Campground

    Great Spot

    This is the spot to be if you're visiting the NRG area and want a chill experience as opposed to the party atmosphere that goes on at the outfitters. Sites are primitive with plenty of trees for and shade and hammocks. The owner is super nice and very helpful.

  • Irene C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Hilltop Sunrise - Half acre RV Site with full hookups

    Hospitable convenience

    Easy access area. The host is friendly and accommodating. We used the 110 electric for overnight in my campervan, but the hilltop tent with outdoor shower is very cute. I would stay here again.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Babcock State Park Campground

    Spacious campground. Near RiverGorge National Park

    The facilities were clean and well maintained. Babcock State Park has access to trails, a scenic drive, grist mill, and souvenir store. WIFI is slow but there is a WiFi lounge at park store. No food store or restaurants nearby. Limited large rig sites and roadways are very narrow.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Grandview Sandbar Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    Great area!

    This was near the water with pit toilets available but not in good condition. Areas to fish and good camping areas spaced apart. Friday night and there was only a few campers. If it’s full glade creek is four miles up the road and our personal favorite. So plenty of options and both great spots!

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Glade Creek Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    New favorite!

    This area is our favorite we have been in all of the eastern states. So the sites all have fire pits and picnic tables and there’s tons of wood around to burn. There’s two pit toilet restrooms on both sides of the campground and a full area by the water for walk in tent camping. Boat ramp for anyone wanting to kayak and a 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.

  • SkywaystoHighways.com Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Babcock State Park Campground

    All the Amenities and then some!

    We truly enjoyed our stay at this park. Its peacefully serene setting was exactly what we needed after a weekend long festival. Ya just can’t beat a free hot shower with great water pressure and affordable laundry facilities! Ya know?! Nice trails to forage and nearby Gristmill to top it all off. If we’d had the time, we would’ve stayed an extra night.

  • TangoRomeo 8.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Sherwood Lake WV

    Lake Sherwood Dispersed Camping

    Around a dozen sites with Rick fire rings, some are RV sized others are tent only. These are located along the road to Lake Sherwood in Neola WV off Rt. 92. First come first serve. Lake Sherwood Day use recreation area with seasonal pay sites is located at the end of the road. All within Monongahela National Forest


Guide to Sandstone

Camping near Sandstone, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore New River Gorge National Park: This park is a must-see for its stunning views and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "Rifrafters is a wonderful family-run campground that was the perfect location for us to explore New River Gorge NP and the surrounding area."
  • Whitewater Rafting: The New River is famous for its rafting opportunities. A visitor shared, "The details make or break your stay and Rifrafters gets them all right. Good, steady power and water at the site, Wi-Fi, dry firewood, great bath house and clean/tidy everywhere."
  • Visit Historic Sites: Check out the historic Grist Mill at Babcock State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "The old Grist Mill area is definitely worth a visit to see an operational 19th-century grist mill."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Rifrafters Campground stated, "The bath house was VERY clean and the showers had great water pressure and plenty of hot water."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Babcock State Park Campground said, "The staff are also friendly and attentive."
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the tranquility of the area. A review for Chestnut Creek Campground highlighted, "After that, I was basically the only one there."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities at Some Campgrounds: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Grandview Sandbar Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are very old and the pits stink throughout the campground."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Glade Creek Campground advised, "Get there early to make sure you get a spot."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds are accessed via gravel roads that may be bumpy. A review for Glade Creek Campground noted, "Roads are riddled with potholes. Careful in low rise cars."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One family enjoyed their stay at Babcock State Park Campground, stating, "There was a playground, group picnic area, tennis courts, and a plethora of other lodging options."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins mentioned, "The beach was nice, we definitely enjoyed it."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, especially food and water. A visitor at Grandview Sandbar Campground reminded campers, "Pack in what you need."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Battle Run noted, "The sites are grassy with gravel, generally level parking pads, some shade."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups. A camper at New River Campground mentioned, "The view from our full hookup campsite is hands down amazing!!"
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or trains. A visitor at New River Campground said, "The train does run across the river at least twice daily."

Camping near Sandstone, West Virginia, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

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.