Tent camping near Saulsville, West Virginia offers access to the area's diverse woodland terrain at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,800 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and changing foliage. Campers should note that even during summer months, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes dipping into the 50s.
What to do
Climb world-class routes: The New River Gorge area provides exceptional climbing opportunities within a short drive from Saulsville campsites. At New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club, climbers can access nearby crags easily. One visitor noted it's "a quick walk to the Junkyard Wall or a short drive to many other classic crags." The campground caters specifically to climbers with wooden platforms for tents and communal areas.
Fish in stocked lakes: Several camping areas offer fishing opportunities in managed lakes. A visitor to Plum Orchard Lake WMA described it as a "great place for kayaking on a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains of Fayette county." Another camper mentioned the "plenty of fishing and hiking areas within a 20 mile radius or so."
Hike riverside trails: Multiple camping locations connect to trail systems following the New River and surrounding woodlands. Stone Cliff Campground visitors can access trails directly from their sites, with one camper noting, "There's a great trail nearby that runs along the river." For families, Bluestone Lake State Park offers various hiking options with a camper stating, "If you like hiking and fishing this is the place."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate sites near bodies of water. At Stone Cliff Campground, visitors enjoy "sandy sites" right along the New River. A camper described their experience: "I loved the experience I had at stone cliff. The camp sites are well marked and maintained. There are some right on the river and a couple more set back closer to the trail." The river provides swimming opportunities and natural ambiance.
Wildlife viewing: The region's forests support diverse wildlife encounters during camping trips. One camper at Plum Orchard Lake reported they "were able to see deer, raccoons and some nice looking birds." At Stone Cliff, another visitor was surprised to discover "the largest spider I've ever seen in the hollow of one of the trees at the campsite."
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds offer generously sized sites that accommodate multiple tents. At Meadow Creek Campground, a camper noted, "Sites are flat, large and spaced out." Another visitor described it as "an incredible spot" while mentioning the campground is now "tents only" after previously being an RV park.
What you should know
Railroad proximity: Several campgrounds are located near active railroad tracks. At Meadow Creek Campground, campers report trains "go by pretty frequently at all hours of day and night and are so loud you can feel the vibrations." Another camper noted trains coming "as often as every 20 minutes and they do not stop."
Variable road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires driving on unpaved roads. At Chestnut Creek Campground, visitors find well-maintained sites despite the access roads. A visitor to Plum Orchard Lake described a "long, bumpy dirt road to reach the campsite—it could be fun in the right vehicle."
Per-person pricing: Unlike standard per-site fees, many campgrounds in the area charge per camper. A visitor to Chestnut Creek noted: "Charge was per person not per site, but reasonable at $15. This seams to be common practice in the area." Another camper confirmed similar pricing at other locations, reporting the cost as "$15 per person per night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family camping, sites with more facilities can make the experience more comfortable. Bluestone Lake State Park offers family-friendly options with one camper noting it has "a few campground options" that are "pretty clean" with attractions including fishing, hiking, and being "near pool."
Verify toilet access: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A Chestnut Creek camper reported "flush toilets and showers" that were clean and accessible. Another visitor noted that "the bathhouse with showers" was within "a short walk from any site."
Consider site privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites ideal for families. At Stone Cliff, a camper observed that "there were 2-3 other groups there and it still felt secluded with the sites distance from each other and the wooded area." Another visitor appreciated that the "campground was quiet with just faint noise from the highway."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most camping options near Saulsville have limitations for larger vehicles. Chestnut Creek specifically notes it's "a very nice little campground set up for tents, hammock campers and some car campers. No hook-ups. Definitely not for RVs or Camper trailers." Smaller camper vans may be accommodated at certain sites.
Limited hook-ups available: RV campers should prepare for primitive camping conditions as most sites lack utilities. One camper at Goforth Mountain Homestead noted the private site is suitable for tents only, though the 76-acre property offers ample space to explore.
Consider wind conditions: Several campgrounds experience significant wind that can affect larger vehicles and awnings. At Meadow Creek, a camper reported, "The wind here is also very strong and without strong anchors could easily pull up your tent. We were having to restake the corners throughout our stay."
