Nestled in the Monongahela National Forest at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet, the Maysville area experiences four distinct seasons with cool summers and cold winters. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, while summer daytime highs typically range from 75-85°F with cooler evenings. Most campgrounds in this region maintain primitive tent sites that offer more seclusion than their full-hookup counterparts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Five River Campground in Parsons sits directly on Shavers Fork River, offering excellent trout and smallmouth bass fishing. "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish," notes one visitor to Five River Campground.
Waterfall exploration: The area contains numerous cascades within short drives. "Blackwater falls, Douglas falls, Elakala falls is the 4 falls of Shays Run, Falls of Seneca, Red falls, the list goes on. Our favorite was Elakala, a great hike down blackwater canyon and view of some beautiful falls," reports a camper from Canaan Valley.
Scenic overlooks: Hiking trails lead to stunning vistas throughout the region. "There's a wonderful park nearby that has a walking/biking trail, splash pad, and a large playground. The Monongahalia National Forest is really close for hiking, views or additional swimming and fishing," mentioned a Middle Ridge Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Maysville host abundant wildlife year-round. "We had a great time! The campsite was full hookup & very inexpensive! Plenty of trees providing shade! There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore!" shares a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Peaceful water access: Several campgrounds offer direct riverfront camping. "With our tent sitting five feet off a gurgling river with mountains as your backdrop, well...it just doesn't get much better or tranquil," explains a Five River Campground camper about their riverside site.
Winter activities: The region transforms into a winter playground with reliable snowfall. "Winter brings copious snowfall and the skiing here draws thousands...downhill and XC," notes a Canaan Valley reviewer, making this area unique for winter glamping close to Maysville, West Virginia.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "There is no cell service but the Visitor's Center has WiFi available," mentions a camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly year-round. "It is West 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," advises a Canaan Valley visitor.
Campsite selection: Sites vary widely in quality and privacy. "Choose your site wisely! I'm including a Pic of the campground map. I made some notations. We were in the 2nd loop on site 27. Since it's been raining for a week it was very muddy," cautions a camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "The beach is nice and lots of fishing, hiking, playgrounds for the kids. Whether a day trip or camping this is a nice spot," notes a visitor at Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Kid-friendly night activities: Clear mountain skies offer stellar stargazing. "The sky was absolutely perfect to view from the campground - you could bring a telescope! I would absolutely come back to stay for a few days!" shares a Blackwater Falls visitor.
Nearby attractions: When weather turns poor, local towns offer indoor alternatives. "There's a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent. Skiing must be very popular in the winter," explains another Blackwater Falls camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full service sites are limited and often require advance booking. "We stayed on site #40 in the Garrett Loop. It is one of only three FHU sites in this loop. The site was level, spacious, beautifully shaded, and convenient to the bath house," reports a visitor to Swallow Falls State Park Campground.
Access challenges: Mountain roads can be difficult for larger rigs. "There are some pretty steep inclines to even get to the campgrounds. Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground," advises a Trout Pond Recreation Area camper.
Site layout concerns: Many campgrounds have unusual site configurations. "A lot of sites on this loop are like that. You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side!" warns a visitor about Blackwater Falls, an important consideration for RV glamping near Maysville, West Virginia.
