Dispersed camping opportunities can be found within 60-70 miles of Shinnston, West Virginia, primarily in the Monongahela National Forest. The region's terrain features elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet with a humid continental climate that receives significant precipitation year-round. Winter conditions often persist into spring at higher elevations, with local microclimates creating weather variations between nearby camping areas.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lower Glady Dispersed Campground offers creek access where visitors report good fishing conditions. "Nice camp sites, and good fishing," notes one camper, while another mentioned "a few friendly fishermen each day, sharing local knowledge."
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking trails connect to Canaan Loop Road Dispersed camping areas. "We've found a few nice little spots to set up camp. Great trails nearby with wonderful views," shares one regular visitor who returns annually. The location provides opportunities to access larger trail systems, with one camper noting "there are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park."
Wildlife observation: The forested surroundings host diverse wildlife, though visitors should take proper precautions. One camper at Canaan Loop Road reported seeing "some bear scat, but past that the only animals we saw were a few frogs." Spring and early summer provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many dispersed areas offer privacy from neighboring campsites. "We pulled our 28 foot travel trailer in past I'd say ten other campsites that were taken. The last big turnaround featured four rv accessible campfires for us to pick," reports a visitor to Lower Glady Dispersed Campground.
Established camping areas: Despite being dispersed, most sites have clearly defined use areas. "The campsites are boarded by boulders. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large," explains one Lower Glady camper.
Star viewing: The remote location provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. One visitor described Canaan Loop Road as "great for meditation and views" with minimal disturbances. Clear nights offer exceptional astronomical viewing, particularly during new moon phases.
What you should know
Site availability concerns: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer," warned one Lower Glady visitor.
Property boundaries: Some dispersed camping areas have unclear boundaries with private property. At Gladwin Dispersed Camping, confusion about boundaries has led to misunderstandings. "Spot is amazing, but we got told to leave due to it actually being private property, not part of the national forest camping," reported one camper. However, another visitor noted "if you go down the dirt road a little to the low water bridge you will find a wonderful site on the right with several fire pits."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly and varies significantly by elevation. One winter camper at Canaan Loop Road shared "we camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom availability: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, with notable exceptions. "The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen," notes a camper about the vault toilets at Lower Glady. This makes Lower Glady more suitable for families with young children compared to other dispersed options.
Beginner-friendly options: Some dispersed sites provide accessible entry points for first-time backcountry campers. "This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time," advised one Kinderhook Horse Trail visitor.
Safety considerations: Remote locations require additional planning for families. "The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit," noted one Kinderhook Horse Trail camper, adding "I would not recommend this site if you are traveling solo."
Tips from RVers
Access road limitations: Road conditions to dispersed sites vary widely by season. "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4," explains a Canaan Loop Road visitor.
Turnaround space: Some sites offer limited space for larger vehicles to maneuver. "There is a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there. My Subaru Forester didn't have any issues, but if you're driving an RV or have a trailer, you may have a struggle," warns a visitor about Canaan Loop Road access.
Level site availability: Finding level sites suitable for RVs requires early arrival. "We arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways," reports one Lower Glady camper, suggesting weekday arrivals improve success rates for securing suitable RV sites.
