New River Gorge National Park offers free primitive camping with river access and trails in several locations near Sandstone, West Virginia. The region sits at elevations between 1,400 and 3,200 feet, creating dramatic river valleys with steep forested hillsides. Most primitive sites lack potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies for overnight stays.
What to do
Hiking riverside trails: Stone Cliff Campground provides access to riverside trails with minimal elevation gain. "There's a great trail nearby that runs along the river. Trash bins and restroom located nearby," notes James A. The trail follows the New River with opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.
Fishing the New River: Camp at riverside locations for direct fishing access. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," shares Jean C. about Army Camp, one of the free National Park Service campgrounds.
Water activities: River access points allow for swimming during summer months. "Evening river dips before bed" were highlighted by Tucker B. as a benefit at Army Camp. Swimming areas are unmarked and without lifeguards, so personal judgment about water conditions is essential.
Wildlife viewing: The New River corridor hosts diverse wildlife. "Song birds, robins and crows competed vocally during daylight hours. Interesting insects crawled the river's sandy shore and a brightly colored Eastern box turtle searched for higher-dryer ground," reported one camper about their experience at Army Camp.
What campers like
Free established camping: Unlike many national parks, New River Gorge offers no-cost camping options. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free!" writes Rachel S. about her stay at Army Camp.
Scenic river settings: Riverside sites offer water views and natural soundscapes. One camper at Glade Creek Campground noted, "The powerful drone of the New River never subsides," creating a constant natural backdrop to camping experiences.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "Even with the rainy weather the area wasn't too muddy and the campsite we stayed at was level so there wasn't any issue," reports Hallie W. about Stone Cliff. "There were 2-3 other groups there and it still felt secluded with the sites distance from each other and the wooded area."
Accessible vault toilets: Despite primitive camping conditions, maintained facilities are available. "Very clean pit toilet bathroom," noted Caroline F. about Army Camp. These basic facilities are regularly serviced by park staff throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Weather and river conditions: The New River can rise rapidly after rainfall. "After a night of rainfall, the New River has swollen beyond its boundaries by 50 feet or more on either shoreline," observed one camper at Army Camp, who cautioned: "Even though it had not rained in 18 hours, the New River continued to swell beyond what I thought probable. Exercise greater wisdom than I did."
First-come, first-served system: No reservations are accepted at free NPS campgrounds. "FCFS. Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles," notes Caroline F. about Army Camp. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended as "spots fill quickly" according to Corda B.
Water planning: No potable water is available at primitive sites. "Note: 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," advises a camper about the free camping options.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," reported Tucker B. about Army Camp. Most free campgrounds lack reliable coverage from any carrier.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Glade Creek Campground offers river access suited for families. "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... a big beach area to play in the water so perfect for my dog and kid," shares Aly E.
Space for activities: Some campgrounds provide open areas for recreation. "Plenty of space to run around for the kids," notes Jeremiah S. about Meador Campground at Bluestone State Park, which offers "an outdoor pool within walking distance of campground."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local fauna. "Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," reports Rachel S. about Army Camp. One camper at Meador Campground mentioned "about a half dozen skunks" which kept them "on edge" during their stay.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in," notes Corda B. about Army Camp. "Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store (like we did) so be prepared to have plenty of food and wood."
Tips from RVers
Best RV sites near Sandstone, West Virginia: Hilltop Sunrise offers a single full-hookup site near Glen Jean. "This is a perfect location for all the activities of New River Gorge. Can't beat the service, value, and accessibility to New River Gorge NP," writes Tara R. The site includes "electric, water & sewer hook-up and was easy no hassle camping."
Hospitality considerations: Personal touches enhance RV camping experiences. At Hilltop Sunrise, "John was so kind and accommodating and made sure we had everything we needed. He even left us firewood and a hospitality box with water, snacks & fire-starters!" according to Randy & T.
Access road awareness: RV camping in the mountainous terrain requires caution. "The road is one lane paved/gravel. Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds," notes Caroline F. about Army Camp. At Shady Rest RV Park, one camper warns about "a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast."
