Campsites near Shady Spring, West Virginia range from 1,200 to 2,800 feet in elevation throughout the New River Gorge region, creating distinct microclimates and camping experiences. The coal mining history of this area is evident in several nearby campgrounds, with abandoned mine sites and historical exhibits within a short drive. Most campgrounds in this region don't accept reservations between November and March due to unpredictable winter weather conditions.
What to do
Explore historical mining towns: The area around Beckley provides unique opportunities to learn about West Virginia's coal mining past. At Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Campground, visitors can tour underground mines and historical buildings. "The guides are knowledgeable and friendly. The other attraction in the area is the New River Gorge National Park," notes one camper.
Hike to waterfalls: Several campgrounds offer direct access to waterfall trails. Camp Creek State Park features multiple trails including routes to two waterfalls. As one visitor noted, "The waterfalls were very sparse when we were there so not sure about other times of the year."
Climb observation towers: The region's elevated vistas provide spectacular views. At Pipestem Resort State Park Campground, one camper shared their experience: "We hiked up to the tower for a great view of the area. We rode the tram at sunset. We sat by the river in at the base of the tram and enjoyed the quiet serene views of folks fishing, deer grazing, and watched the sun go down."
Paddle the New River: The river provides excellent water-based recreation for all skill levels. "If you're into hiking, rock climbing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, white water rafting, paddle boarding or just hanging out outdoors, this is for you," states a review about riverside camping options.
What campers like
Level, well-maintained sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature properly graded sites. At Glade Creek Campground, one visitor commented, "The tent sites were closer than I thought, but were still nicely equipped with a fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. The drive-in sites filled and vacated several times throughout the weekend."
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. A visitor to Stone Cliff Campground noted, "We went in the middle of the week, on a Tuesday. It was incredibly private, we were the only ones staying overnight. We stayed at site 7 which was definitely the most private."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at certain parks. Regarding Mash Fork Campground at Camp Creek State Park, one camper shared, "Bath/Shower House was very clean. Instant hot water was appreciated at the tap (it was in the 30s when we were there in mid-October). Hooks and shelves for toiletries were appreciated."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers abundant opportunities to spot native animals. A visitor at Meador Campground observed, "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay."
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted winter operations. "Just a quick FYI, there is no camping in the winter. We stopped by for an overnight while enroute to Ohio," reported one camper about a nearby state park.
Limited cell service: Communication can be difficult at many sites. At Army Camp Campground, a visitor mentioned, "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!). Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed."
Flash flooding risk: River levels can change rapidly, especially after rainfall. One camper at Grandview Sandbar Campground observed, "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood."
Railroad noise: Several campgrounds are situated near active train lines. A visitor to Grandview Sandbar Campground noted, "The really bad thing is that there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly recreational areas. A visitor to Little Beaver State Park Campground noted, "This place is fabulous. Sites with water and electric hookup 1-20. Spacious, private... walking trail system connected to camp sites. Cute little store for firewood...they bring to you."
Choose campgrounds with bike-friendly roads: Paved surfaces make family activities easier. At Rifrafters Campground, one camper mentioned, "The playground was great for our daughters to burn off some energy. We would stay here again, especially for a weekend to see the area."
Consider sites with water views: Waterfront locations provide natural entertainment. A visitor to Meador Campground at Bluestone State Park shared, "We stayed in Meador site 14, which was the furthest away from the bath house (still only maybe 150 yards), but it was on the water & was the most secluded. It was freshly mowed, had a fire ring, picnic table, & was right on the water with nice views of the lake & mountains."
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: While exciting, animals require proper preparation. One camper noted, "Stayed here with friends and everything was good except the fact that there were about a half dozen skunks. Kinda kept me on edge."
Tips from RVers
Check site hookup locations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility placement. At Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Campground, a camper noted, "All camping sites are backed in and paved. Our electric post was on the opposite side of our electrical outlet."
Verify road conditions to campgrounds: Access routes can be challenging for larger rigs. One visitor observed, "It's a one lane road to get to the campground and can get tight when other vehicles pass, but we got down there with our F250 truck and camper when a big grater and the park ranger came by. It's very doable."
Consider smaller rigs for primitive campgrounds: Many of the free camping areas have limited space. A camper at Grandview Sandbar Campground advised, "Tight spots to maneuver with bigger camper. But considering the toilets and dumpsters, not so bad."
