Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Seneca Rocks, WV

Seneca Shadows Campground welcomes pets throughout its wooded and meadow campsites, offering both drive-in and walk-in options with views of the iconic rock formation. Loop sites nestled among trees provide more privacy for campers with dogs, while the open field tent sites feature panoramic views of Seneca Rocks where pets can enjoy the natural setting. The campground maintains clean facilities with regular sanitization, making it comfortable for both pets and their owners. Big Bend Campground and Spruce Knob Lake Campground also permit pets with basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets. For those seeking free camping with dogs, Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping and Dolly Sods Backcountry areas allow pets without reservation requirements. Dogs regularly explore the trails at Seneca Rocks with their owners, though proper leashing is essential due to local wildlife.

The 1.5-mile trail from Seneca Shadows to Seneca Rocks provides an excellent dog-friendly hiking option, with the path crossing open fields before reaching the main attraction. Morning walks with dogs offer the best experience when temperatures are cooler and fewer hikers are on the trails. During summer months, the nearby river access points provide pets with cooling opportunities after hikes. Campers should note the complete absence of cell service throughout the area due to the Green Bank radio telescope restrictions, making it essential to download maps and veterinary information before arrival. The local Yokum's store near the campgrounds stocks basic pet supplies for emergency needs. Most campers report the spacious sites accommodate dogs comfortably with minimal disturbance from neighboring campsites, particularly during weekday visits when the campgrounds are less crowded.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Seneca Rocks, West Virginia (97)

    1. Seneca Shadows

    32 Reviews
    Seneca Rocks, WV
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (304) 567-3082

    $17 - $65 / night

    "The campground is a short drive from Seneca Rock. Wind back into the woods for camping in a quaint quite setting (A-D) or camp in the meadowlands with Seneca Rock in the background (walk-sites)"

    "It is right down the road from Seneca Rocks and a supply store in case you forget anything."

    2. Spruce Knob Lake Campground

    17 Reviews
    Riverton, WV
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 567-3082

    $15 - $32 / night

    "The Spruce Knob Lake Campground offers extra-large camp sites with lots of shade and so much undergrowth I only saw my neighbors when I took a walk to check out the campground."

    "It is about 5 miles from the summit of Spruce Knob (highest peak in West Virginia).  Tow campers smaller in size can certainly make it, although mostly tent camping which I like. "

    3. Blackwater Falls State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 259-5216

    $50 / night

    "Our site was near the edge of the campground, which is basically a large grassy area with a bathroom in the middle of the loop."

    "This campground is the highest in West Virginia, it has a total of 65 campsites 30 of which are electric and 35 are non-electric."

    4. Big Bend Campground

    14 Reviews
    Cabins, WV
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 358-3253

    $27 - $50 / night

    "The group site is HUGE open area right next to river and away from the main camping area. Only thing with the group site is that the only thing they have is portapotty."

    "Pets are allowed.

    The South Branch Potomac River winds around the campground, so bring rafts, tubes, or kayaks to float on. There is also a rope swing around the corner you can hike or float to."

    5. Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Whitmer, WV
    12 miles
    Website

    "Some you walk-in a short distance but are rewarded with amazing sites on the creek, secluded and wooded. Other places you can camp in your vehicle or park at the site."

    "Just camped there with two of my friends this past weekend, really cool site we were lucky enough to get a site next to the river! Get there early as it’s first come first serve!"

    6. Dolly Sods Backcountry

    11 Reviews
    Red Creek, WV
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 257-4488

    "Having visited Dolly Sods numerous times at the Red Creek Campground, using that as the base camp to launch off to explore the myriad of trails."

    "We hiked in in warm weather and once we reached the top of a long entrance road (where one trailhead was) we found snow."

    7. Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Red Creek, WV
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 866-4121

    $20 - $45 / night

    "West Virginia is a state for anyone who enjoys the outdoors!!!! There are tons of out door activities! We recently camped 3 nights at Canaan Valley! We had a great time!"

    "Campground Review: Canaan Valley State Park and Resort, Davis, West Virginia

    The Canaan Valley State Park and Resort is situated in a very popular outdoor activity area...for every season."

    8. Eagle Rock Campground

    4 Reviews
    Upper Tract, WV
    5 miles

    $10 / night

    "Stayed one night in a tent right next to the river. It is what it is, a West Virginia backwoods campground. $10 will get ya a nights stay."

    9. Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Observation Tower

    8 Reviews
    Circleville, WV
    14 miles

    "Campground is less than 1 mile from Spruce Knob Lake. Lake has boat ramp for small boats and kayaks and a pier for fishing."

    "Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia and offers great views."

    10. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 478-2000

    "road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that"

    "Big site, good fire ring, paths the walk right from the site. The moss was like walking on carpet"

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Seneca Rocks, WV

713 Reviews of 97 Seneca Rocks Campgrounds


  • Jillian E.
    Jul. 13, 2020

    Seneca Shadows

    Seneca Awesome!

    The campground is a short drive from Seneca Rock. Wind back into the woods for camping in a quaint quite setting (A-D) or camp in the meadowlands with Seneca Rock in the background (walk-sites)

  • K
    May. 28, 2018

    Seneca Shadows

    Quiet and convenient national forest setting.

    This campground offers a beautiful setting for a base camp as you explore the Monongahela National Forest. It is right down the road from Seneca Rocks and a supply store in case you forget anything. There is a nature center at Seneca Rocks where we found it very helpful to check the weather forecast each morning since the weather can be unpredictable and there is no cell reception nearby. The bathrooms at the campground had flush toilets and a shower. We absolutely loved staying at site 24 at the end of loop B where we only had one neighbor and a short walk to the bathroom. Although the tent sites in the meadow had a nice view of Seneca Rocks, they do not have as much privacy and shade. The campground was sold out for Memorial Day weekend, but we did not feel that it was crowded or noisy.

  • Keith B.
    Jul. 29, 2018

    Seneca Shadows

    Group Campsite D, Great Location, Awesome Views

    Great group campsite across from Seneca Rocks. The group sites are off the second to last turn off in the campground, next to the walk up campsites parking area. We stayed in site D, which is conveniently located across from the bathhouse. The campground attendants were friendly and helpful and did a wonderful job keeping the bathhouses clean. The campground had somewhat of a party atmosphere but everyone seemed to respect the quiet hours (10:00pm). Group site D featured five tent pads which are filled with small crushed gravel. It was a struggle keeping the gravel out of the tent, but otherwise okay. The tent pads are arranged in a semi circle near the wooded edge of the campsite. The kids ad gets hit with sunlight most of the day, but by late afternoon, they’re in the shadow of the trees.

  • Alex M.
    Aug. 11, 2022

    Seneca Shadows

    Idyllic

    I stayed here for a single night while I was exploring West Virginia, but I wish I had stayed longer. This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I've ever seen.

    The front section of Seneca Shadows isn't all that interesting. There are standard sites here with gravel pads, water, and electricity, good for trailers and RVs. The sites are of an average size and have plenty of shade and privacy.

    There is also a large tent-only section at the back of the campground. This is where I stayed, and this is what made Seneca Shadows memorable. The tent section is a giant meadow with picnic tables and tent pads arranged around the edges. There is also a picnic shelter here. Parking is adjacent; expect to carry your gear a few hundred feet. Many of the sites have shade trees, and a few have shrubs for privacy, but nearly all have an incredible view of Seneca Rocks, a magnificent geological feature.

    There are vault toilets located close to the tent section, but these didn't smell great so I avoided them. There are real bathrooms with flushing toilets, running water, and showers located just up the road. These were nice and clean when I visited.

    I intend to return someday for a closer look at Seneca Rocks. This place is a destination, not just a stopover.

  • Dave V.
    Aug. 27, 2017

    Seneca Shadows

    Seneca Rocks Cast Their Shadow

    West Virginia is packed with some of the best hiking, climbing, rafting, biking, canyons, mountains, rivers, valleys, and forests in the U.S...and the beauty is few people take advantage of it.

    Wanting to spend the a few days midweek in and around Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob, we chose Seneca Shadows Campground as our basecamp. Aptly named, as views of Seneca Rocks can enjoyed from your tent site.

    Smack dab in the middle of the Monongahela National Forest, Seneca Shadows Campground is part of the U.S. Forest Service, so if you are planning a weekend or popular vacation time stay, log onto (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/mapof_Seneca_Shadows/r/campgroundMap.do?page=map&search=site&contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70322 ) and reserve your site.

    If you are driving a big RV or hauling a Camper, you'll be parking on one of the 38 sites designed specifically for that purpose. There are a few large group tent sites on the same side of the park roadway before you reach the individual tent sites. Be astute, some have electric and some do not.

    Forgive me for saying, but the tent sites appear designed by someone only interested in allowing as many tenters as possible, without regard for privacy...more like cattle in a feed lot (with the exception of 50-53). These are considered "walk to" sites. So I would not camp here during a weekend or holiday. Fortunately, weekdays see few tenters and we had it all to ourselves. Staying on somewhat of an elevated site (50) with some encompassing foliage. However, a roadway runs along the campground to the north, so we heard truck traffic early morning and late. Water and restrooms are located by the parking lot and adequate.

    The views of Seneca Rocks were welcomed, when it wasn't raining (a common occurance is WV)...and only one mile from entrance to entrance with the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=7050)...and 14.3 miles/Half hour drive to Spruce Knob, West Virginia's highest peak at 4,862 (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recarea/?recid=7053). At the crossroads a mile away are a couple restaurants and a country store (with ice cream shop) for last minute needs.

    While I prefer more isolated campgrounds and sites, this filled the need.

  • Jennifer B.
    Oct. 26, 2019

    Seneca Shadows

    Perfect Location!

    If you're a fan of hiking and rock climbing at Seneca Rocks, Seneca Shadows is absolutely the best campground near this fantastic rock formation. 

    It’s located in the Monongahela National Forest near the North Fork South Branch of the Potomac River with nearby peaks ranging from 1,000 feet to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Seneca Shadows campground offers a view of the famed Seneca Rocks and puts you within walking distance of the visitor’s center, hiking and climbing trails, plus the quaint town of Seneca Rocks where you buy gas, food and gifts. 

    Make sure you visit Harper’s Old Country Store, a 4th generation family run business, operating since 1902. The visitor’s center has a nice collection of Native American artifacts and a cool video of the Army soldiers who trained here before WWII. 

    Seneca Shadows Campground is a modern campground with paved parking, flush toilets, showers and an amphitheater. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and lantern post. Seneca Shadows is part of a growing trend where a private concessionaire is a running a public camp-ground. I’m not a huge fan since it often mean higher fees, but I must say that the campground was spotless and well-run by a delightful couple who obviously enjoyed their summer job. 

    Seneca Shadows Campground has three loops to chose from: 

    The A& B Loops are for tents or RVs with no electric service. 

    The C-Loop has electricity. 

    There's also a group camping area and a "tent-only" camping area with walk-in sites from a nearby parking lot.

    Spruce Knob and Dolly Sods are nearby and both deserve a spot on your outdoor adventure“bucket list” in West Virginia.

  • Amanda H.
    Jun. 28, 2016

    Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground

    Wildlife galore!!!

    West Virginia is a state for anyone who enjoys the outdoors!!!! There are tons of out door activities! We recently camped 3 nights at Canaan Valley! We had a great time! The campsite was full hookup & very inexpensive!!!! Plenty of trees providing shade! There is a little park for the kids, it could use a little TLC! But we didn't spend much time there. There is a huge field that the kids enjoyed kite flying! The staff at the store/check in are very friendly and helpful with area attractions! There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore! Someone saw a black bear on the trail (we did not)! Beautiful birds with tons of color! You have access to the pool at the resort (near the hotel)! The bathrooms are less than desirable, but you're good if you have an RV! There are tons of attractions in WV, you may just have to drive. We went to Smoke Hole Caverns and Seneca Rocks for the day, only a 45 minute drive! Well worth it! We will return! Only took off one star b/c of the playground & bathroom! Happy camping!

  • Dave V.
    Sep. 4, 2020

    Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground

    A State Park for all Seasons

    Campground Review: Canaan Valley State Park and Resort, Davis, West Virginia

    The Canaan Valley State Park and Resort is situated in a very popular outdoor activity area...for every season. Winter brings copious snowfall and the skiing here draws thousands...downhill and XC. The summer sees backpackers, hikers, mountain bikers, gravel grinders, car-campers and RVers. Not only do you have hiking trails here on the State Park location...you can drive up to the nearby Dolly Sods Wilderness Area for camping, day-hikes or multi-day backcountry trips; Blackwater Falls (10 miles north) offers memorable falls, great hikes with long gorge views (Lindy Point a favorite). Even Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob are only 30 minutes or so away. Possibilities are endless in this neck of the woods. This very weekend was to be the Mountainbike Festival, but due to Covid-19, well you know the rest of that story. The Abe Run Trail was a pleasant trail leaving from the campground.

    The campground portion is not expansive but 34 sites are situated in three small loops (see photo of campground map). Primitive tent sites don't have water or electric and parking is roadside but you are within 100 yards of the "Comfort Station." The three "tent only" sites have only been around for a couple years...but sites 1 and 2 are in a nice grassy area away from the RV loop 2. Always verify current rates, but June 18, 2020...mid $30's nightly for nonresidents (WV residents get 30% off). Primitive tent sites were $17 a night.

    The Resort Lodge, Golf course, swimming pool and a covered ice skating rink (obviously the last three mentioned being seasonal) were further up the windy park roadway. (See rates on park website).

    The campground "Comfort Station," is a restroom/shower/laundry and soda machine building. The gender specific restroom/shower rooms each have two wooden stalled modern facility stools, two shower stalls (men's are separated by a shower curtain, women's by a wall); a separate unisex ADA restroom/shower sits adjacent to the men's and appears newer.

    The grounds are well-maintained and manicured as are all WV State Parks. Trails are scattered throughout the park. some are foot traffic only, others permit bicycles. The Back Hollow Trail was predominantly a mown grass trail but occasional wooded sections were rocky two-track. This is Wet Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months. I have mastered the fine art of campsite tarping due to West Virginia camping. It also still gets chilly in these mountains during the early summer months.

    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 1 & 2.

    We spent three days in June and experienced afternoon rain showers daily, but arranged our hikes and bikes around them.

  • Sandy S.
    Jan. 26, 2020

    Monongahela National Forest Dispersed Site

    Secluded but safe

    One of the best experiences I’ve had camping solo. The camp site was on a small gravel road, tucked up in the forest, only 1 or 2 other campers, but the grounds man who delivered my firewood checked on my 1-2 times a day. Also warned me when a storm was imminent. Seneca Rock and many hiking trails close by. Incredible drive through steep, winding mountain roads!


Guide to Seneca Rocks

Discover the perfect spots for pets-allowed camping near Seneca Rocks, West Virginia, where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.

Tips for camping with dogs near Seneca Rocks

Pet owners like the spacious sites and amenities

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Seneca Rocks

  • Enjoy hiking trails accessible from Seneca Shadows, where you can explore the beautiful scenery with your dog.
  • Take a scenic drive to Dolly Sods Backcountry for breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures with your pet.
  • Spend a relaxing day by the river at Five River Campground, where you can float and fish while your dog enjoys the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Seneca Rocks, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Seneca Rocks, WV is Seneca Shadows with a 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Seneca Rocks, WV?

TheDyrt.com has all 97 dog-friendly camping locations near Seneca Rocks, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.