Seneca Rocks, West Virginia sits at 1,500 feet elevation amid the Monongahela National Forest, where the North Fork South Branch Potomac River creates natural boundaries for camping areas. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at night even into spring, while summer daytime highs typically range from 75-85°F with cooler evenings around 60°F. Most glamping sites near Seneca Rocks require advance booking during peak summer months.
What to do
Hike to Spruce Knob Tower: West Virginia's highest peak offers 360-degree views from its observation tower. "The park overall is absolutely gorgeous. There's something to do for people of any activity level. Nearby towns of Davis and Thomas are so lovely and have charm out the wazoo," notes a visitor to Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
Fish the Shavers Fork River: Cast for trout and smallmouth bass directly from riverfront campsites. A camper at Five River Campground observed "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish."
Winter activities: December through March offers skiing at nearby resorts. "Winter brings copious snowfall and the skiing here draws thousands...downhill and XC," explains a visitor to Canaan Valley State Park and Resort who adds, "The summer sees backpackers, hikers, mountain bikers, gravel grinders, car-campers and RVers."
Visit Douglas Falls: A short drive from Parsons provides access to this scenic waterfall. "We checked out Douglas Falls. Next time, we'll visit Lindy Observation deck and more of Blackwater Falls State Park," shares a camper who stayed at Five River Campground.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights offer exceptional viewing conditions. A camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground noted, "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope!"
Rustic sites with wilderness proximity: Many campsites offer direct access to trails and natural features. "The forest is silent and beautiful, looks like it belongs out west in the PNW. The moss-covered ground and rocks make it the perfect oasis for a weekend trip," writes a visitor to Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower.
Proximity to small towns: Nearby communities offer local food and shopping. "Go into the town of Davis and there is a local brewery and some great food. Sirianni's has the best pizza, pasta and salads you will ever find. Highland market has local raised foods," recommends a camper at Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Riverside camping: Many sites position campers directly beside water. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river," shares a visitor at Revelle's River Resort.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal can be spotty throughout the region. "Be forwarded this entire area has no cell service due to the Green radio telescopes," warns a camper at Yokums Vacationland and Princess Snowbirds Indian Village.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises a Blackwater Falls visitor.
Flood risk at riverside sites: Water levels can rise quickly during heavy rain. "I couldn't figure out why I was the only one picking a choice spot by the river. The first night was great... I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising," cautions a Yokums Vacationland camper.
Regional attractions require driving: Major sights may be spread out. "We went to Smoke Hole Caverns and Seneca Rocks for the day, only a 45 minute drive! Well worth it!" mentions a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment. "Our site was full hookup with a backyard and plenty of room to roam and play!" shares a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Family-friendly wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common around many campgrounds. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening. A kid's playground is situated beside (separated by a field) primitive tent sites," notes a Canaan Valley camper.
Swimming holes for hot days: Natural water features offer cooling opportunities. "They have an honest to goodness swimming hole!" exclaims a visitor to Rivers Edge Campground.
Indoor backup activities: Weather can be unpredictable, so have alternatives. "The outside pool is large and heated. There is an inside pool and hot tub, small fee for camping guest," explains a Canaan Valley visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Some sites have unusual utility placement. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," notes a visitor to Blackwater Falls State Park Campground who adds, "The dump station is in a weird spot and the only water available is the same used for flushing."
Site spacing considerations: Layout varies between campgrounds. "This campground was amazing! Some sites were closer together than others but we didn't mind since we just had a tent," shares a Blackwater Falls camper.
WiFi availability: Internet access varies greatly between locations. "The only cons were I had to leave and no picnic tables," mentioned a camper at Five River Campground who appreciated that the campground "has great cell signal for most carriers and even offers wifi and cable."
