Top Tent Camping near Shinnston, WV
Searching for a tent campsite near Shinnston? Find the best tent camping sites near Shinnston. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Shinnston, West Virginia's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Shinnston, WV (13)
1. Camp Ara
2 Reviews•22 Photos•39 SavesCamp Ara is a beautiful 113-acre property in Fairmont, WV. Located in the Allegheny Mountains about 20 minutes south of Morgantown, WV, and West Virginia University. It is close to major cities like Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Columbus, Cincinnati, and many others. The property has been run as a Christian camp for over 60 years, serving and changing the lives of countless youth along the way. There is a large number of foster children in and around the area that are currently in great need of programs that connect them with nature, help them to grow individually, and help teach them life skills to prepare them for transitioning out of the foster care system. In addition to running year-round programming, Camp Ara is home to 80+ acres of virtually untouched land. We have created 40 beautiful campsites that require various amounts of hiking to reach. No matter what site you choose, however, you will almost definitely feel as though you are alone with nature.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$20 - $150 / night
2. Rhododendron Camping Area
2 Reviews•4 Photos•29 SavesNamed after the state’s official flower, Rhododendron Campground offers 25 primitive campsites that each have a picnic table and fire pit. There is a central bathroom with flushing toilets and running water available for campground guests. The campground is open to only tent/hammock camping. Pets are permitted, so long as your furry friends are kept on a leash. The campgrounds are spring through fall, weather permitting. Campsites may be reserved anytime online, by phone, or at the campground office. Reservations may be made for no less than two consecutive nights on weekends (Friday and Saturday) or one-night Sunday through Thursday. There is a 14-night maximum stay.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$25 - $35 / night
3. Bear Heaven Campground
6 Reviews•6 Photos•143 SavesA small primitive campground located approximately 14 miles northeast of Elkins, West Virginia, on Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) near the Otter Creek Wilderness. 8 available sites are nestled along rock outcroppings that offer unique landscapes. There is stream fishing and hiking located nearby. Middle Point Trail #140,__3.7 miles in length is located along Forest Road 91 (Stuart Drive) west of the Campground. The Otter Creek Wilderness offers several trails and__more challenging experiences just next door.
- Tents
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
4. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
8 Reviews•44 Photos•198 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
5. Conaway Run State Lake
1 Review•3 Saves- Tents
- Toilets
8. Possum Tail Farm Camp
1 Review•5 Photos•10 SavesThis a traditional site in the heart of the farm next to a small pond with picnic table and fire pit. It is a sloping wooded space, with flat spots to comfortably accommodate 2-3 tents. There are multiple trees perfect for hanging your hammock in the shade. The compost toilet, about 50ft away, is shared with another campsite. Parking is on a gravel lane adjacent to the site. Potable water(from a frost-free hydrant) is available about 80ft from the site. The pond is only for viewing, no swimming or fishing, please. We have nesting birds occasionally and we expect their habitat to be respected. We are 3 miles from Terra Alta, a rural town with a locally owned restaurant and a local craft beer brewery featuring an exciting rotating cast of food trucks. We are 20 minutes from Swallow Falls State Park(MD), featuring Muddy Creek Falls, awesome river swimming and gorgeous hiking in an old growth Hemlock forest. We are also 20 minutes from Herrington Manor State Park(MD) were there is a lake for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. Cathedral State Park(WV) a virgin Hemlock forest with 400 year old trees about 45 minutes away. Deep Creek Lake(MD) is 40 minutes away and offers motor boat rentals, Golf, Skiing and swimming. There is skiing, hiking, biking, tubing, rafting, kayaking and much more to explore withing 40 minutes of our farm. The best white water rafting on the east coast is 20-40 minutes away. We welcome campers of all kinds! We began operating our 150 acre farm in 2011 and became the first Certified Naturally Grown Livestock farm in West Virginia in 2013. We raise 100% grass-fed beef, Western and Chinese medicinal herbs. Our family garden supplies more than half of our vegetables and our favorite berries, and our flock of chickens supply eggs and an early morning wake-up call for our campers! There are no GMO's, pesticides, herbicides or fungicides used on our farm. Farm products are available for purchase on-site. Campers can choose to to have a farm to table meal cooked for them as an extra at checkout. We prepare most of our food from scratch using local produce, meat and bulk organic dry goods. We occasionally make yogurts, noodles, simple cheeses, and fermented foods.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Market
- Trash
$55 / night
9. Kinderhook Trailhead
1 Review•3 Photos•12 SavesPrimitive camping is allowed at no charge at the trailhead, but only during the horse and mountain bike riding open season.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Equestrian
10. Ring Mill Campground
Be the first to review!•9 SavesThis was once the site of a mill and farmstead. The mill is now gone, but the stone house of its original owner, built in 1846, is still located at the site. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places. It has three camp-sites and a picnic shelter, and is also a canoe access point and__near the North Country Trail.
- Tents
Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Shinnston
345 Reviews of 13 Shinnston Campgrounds
Jeff H.
Guide
Coopers Rock State Forest
McCollum Campground
A nice campground in a beautiful area. Currently, McCollum has 25 campsites, but a new section is under construction. The sites are relatively level for such a hilly area, but we did need to do a little extra positioning of our camper. Site 22 is a pull through site and feels extra large compared to others. No water at this site but is does have 30 and 15 amp service.
There is a small camp store with the basics and a larger outpost just down the road where many of the trail heads are located. There is a bit of a Wi-Fi signal but is only accessible when you're at the camp store.
Fantastic hiking in the area! Lots of interesting scenery and rock formations to explore.
Bath house was clean and the water was hot.
Definitely recommend staying here.
James P.
Legend
Cokeley Campground — North Bend State Park
Nice state park
Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads. Campground is very nice and well maintained. Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration.
- Harley G.Guide
Canaan Loop Road Dispersed
First night
This was our first night ever for dispersed camping for us. Did have nice secluded spots for camping. Road was a little rough so take your time.
Tiel M.
Traveler
Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground
Primitive plus.
That's the best way to describe this park. It has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad. I love how open and natural it feels.
However, the plus is that there are lots of little amentities, a coffee pavilion, wood to buy, portapots, and an incredibly kind "staff." I'm mobility impaired and it was just my dog and I. The guys were super helpful bringing the wheelbarrow of wood to me, which would have been difficult for me.
The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks.
The property was clean and quiet other than the occasional diesel truck going down the road.
corda B.
Scout
Chestnut Ridge Regional Park
Perfect
Sites are very large. Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept. Staff was friendly. Quiet and peaceful. Pet friendly. Dump station on grounds and easy access.
- AAlicia W.Scout
River Run Campground — North Bend State Park
Great experience
The campground was pretty packed for much of the weekend, but it never got too loud. Bathrooms are clean and the sites seem pretty spacious. I was at site 2, which is on a slight incline, but it didn't matter too much because I camp in a teardrop so keeping it level isn't an issue. Wifi and Verizon cell were both strong. Easy access to the rail trail and close to the river. I'll definitely go back.
Owen I.Guide
Grand Vue Park
Great Park!
Everyone was so friendly and the gate just uses a code! so not fiddling around with a Fob or keycard! We were the only ones at the campground when we stayed there the park shuttle bus would come around the park and was offering to take you to any where in or outside of the park! Craig introduced himself to us and was super friendly and nice and talked to us about the park and the campground. The Shuttle driver ended up telling us about this super cute breakfast place called Bob's Lunch! It was so good super well priced it was a hidden gem and the shuttle bus even took us on a tour of moundsvile! The Sites were fully paved and the entire campground was super nice! The blacktop was super nice and the campground was easy to navigate the bathhouses were really clean!
- Kim M.Scout
Cokeley Campground — North Bend State Park
Nice deep sites. Cokeley is W/E. Restrooms/showers are clean. Laundry on s
Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP(Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. 304)643-2931.
GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills! Call the office! Park personnel said some GPS will bring campers up a bad gravel road!
Most of the sites are not shaded, ours had partial shade.
Will definitely return.
Wi-Fi worked!
- Ronnie B.Traveler
Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground Monongalia County Park
Nice place
Close to Cheat Lake and restaurants in Morgantown.
- SSabrina B.Traveler
River Run Campground — North Bend State Park
Too many behemoths
Beautiful campground but all giant RVs with lights like a Walmart lot T night. Nice Nature Center with attentive rangers. We camp in a tear drop and will not camp here again.
Jeremiah S.Guide
Bulltown Campground
Surviving Storm
We booked this trip last minute on Memorial Day weekend and literally took the last site reservable. The place was crowded and our corner was as crowded as anywhere. The people beside us had way too many cars that made it a little tough to back in. The 5 dudes standing around helped us navigate their vehicles but it was annoying. Later the guy brought us over some whiskey and beers, maybe as an unstated apology.
The CG itself was very family oriented and our site was a good size. We went swimming in lake two days and drove down to Flatwoods for some of the best ice cream you can find at The Spot (UFO and alien sighting location lol).
A huge storm rolled through with 40/50 mph winds. We had a little heads up thanks to buying a day of WiFi but most people were caught flat footed. We saw 30 plus awnings and canopies destroyed. Power went out for entire last day but we were fine. No rangers or park folks let us know anything but that was fine.
I’d recommend c1-c5 if you have kids.
- Jeremiah S.Guide
Stonewall Resort State Park Campground
Great Amenities
After years of tent camping, this was our first camping trip with camper our and two youngest kids. When we stayed it was cold outside but we had full hook up and were prepared.
We had nice view of the lodge. The lodge amenities are top notch with a heated pool that only costs a a daily charge to use on top of camping. The campsite itself was a little pricey with the only thing distinguishing the campground being lodge activities you have to pay for.
I’d recommend sites 1-5, 20, and 39.
- Jeremiah S.Guide
River Run Campground — North Bend State Park
Great Family Campground
We had a wonderful time. The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip.
We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby. There wasn’t easy river access from the campground but we climbed down the hill with no problem and waded the stream for hours.
The property was very clean and family oriented. Nice spacing at our site in particular. I would also recommend sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14.
- KKatie H.Guide
Swallow Falls State Park
Gorgeous Park
We love this park! We have camped and stayed in a camper cabin. We love camping in the trees that provide some privacy. At night time, the owls hoot away. The bathhouses are pretty good, not the best but are always clean. I like that the campground is dog friendly, but didn’t realize the park is not. The waterfall trails are beautiful and a sight to explore. Definitely recommend this park!
Joni P.Guide
Benner's Meadow Run Camping & Cabins
Commercialized campground
The entry is strange as we had to block the gated entrance to get to the office to check in. Once past that, the staff was nice and the buildings and properties are well maintained. They have a new bath house which is personal bathroom style and very nice. The sites are very close together with little privacy. We stayed in site 435. The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire. We did not take part in the planned events they had set up but did use the pool which was nice. The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair. Roads are all gravel so no bikes or scooters for kids.
Kim S.Traveler
Audra State Park
Beautiful campsites
It's a curvy small road to get there but it's well worth the drive. Beautiful campsites,some right on the river. Access to water that is icy cold but definitely fun to play in. The camp store is well stocked and the employees are friendly.
- AAnnie K.Guide
15377
Melvins paradise lake farm
This place is so beautiful so peaceful the fish in the lake a huge. Small fee for fishing. It’s catch and release only. The owners of the property are very caring and helpful and friendly
- kkeri S.Traveler
Family Fishing N' Camping
AS OF 5/18/2024
This establishment does NOT offer tent sites anymore! 5/18/2024. I called to make a reservation and they said they do not do that anymore as of a few years ago.
- kkeri S.Traveler
Broken Wheel Campground
Family camping
I recently went tent camping with my two children and 2 dogs it was a wonderful experience! The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and gaurentee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts! Plenty of trash cans around and a nice park to play at. We tied our doggos between two trees and let them run. Firewood for sale. None to gather around not even sticks so be prepared for that. The tent camping sites arnt marked you kind of just go anywhere which was fine since we were the only ones there. We loved it!
Tony C.Scout
Sand Springs Campground
Quiet, Lots of trees
We only stayed one night, driving through. About 3 miles from the interstate, narrow roads. Big rigs probably hard to back in.
- JJulie C.Traveler
River Run Campground — North Bend State Park
Weekend Getaway
Great place to stay! We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop. The site was mostly flat where we parked the camper and very close to the bathhouse. Plenty to do around the park - biking the rail trails, hiking, fishing, basketball, and a nice playground, to name a few! We definitely plan to make another trip there this year!!
Paige H.Traveler
Blackwater Falls State Park
Winter camping at blackwater falls
Campsites are just the right size. Very level and nicely done. Sites have electric hookup a picnic table and a fire ring. Wood is available for purchase at the office when you come In. Bathhouse is located in the center of the campsites
Brittany R.Traveler
Backwoods Campground & Winery
Best campground ever!!
So peaceful, beautiful views!!! Always have a good time, and always love enjoying time with family and friends and time together!!! Have to check it out! Experience is amazing!!!!
- Arlyn S.Guide
Benner's Meadow Run Camping & Cabins
Perfect for a good SWPA camping trip... even in the Winter!
Me and my wife usually can't wait for the warm Spring weather to start our camping season. This year (2024) was no different. We got the itch to go, and Benner's was one of the few campgrounds open during the Winter in SWPA (SouthWestern PA). That was perfect, because we had been wanting to check Benner's out anyway. It's only 32 minutes from our home. So, we figured, if we liked it, it could end up being one of our go-to quick trips when we're limited on time.
There really wasn't anything about the campground or the staff that we didn't like. The campground was really nice, although PA Winters are drab, so we kind of had to use our imagination for how beautiful the campground might be when there's vibrant greenery all around. The staff were all extremely nice, and made us feel very welcome.
There's a good bit to do there. There are 2 ponds and a lake. There is plenty of ground for hiking and wandering. There is playground equipment for kids. There's a nice office with food and snacks (though fairly limited while we were there).
We definitely plan to drop by during Spring, Summer, or Fall, to see the place in its full beauty. But, until then, this campground is on our "revisit" list. And if the revisit goes well, it could end up on our "regular" list. ;)
Benjamin S.ScoutSwallow Falls State Park
Peaceful and Serene
Campground was well maintained. Tent pads were great. It rained on us but tent pads were elevated enough that we stayed dry. It is so peaceful and serene there. Hiked the trails to the waterfalls and had a great time. Firewood was cheap. Bathrooms were good and clean.
- CCraig B.Guide
Camp Creek State Park
Awesome
Lots of elevation to summit and water to cool you off after exploring.
Fred L.GuideAudra State Park
Small but beautiful park
We recently stayed at Audra State Park for two nights. The park is very small but well-equipped. The campsites are large, each with a picnic table and fire pit. Many are right along the river. A trail winds along the river offering spectacular views. The campground also offers playground, flush toilets, and hot showers. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Guide to Shinnston
Camping near Shinnston, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Rafting on the river: Experience the thrill of rafting down the Ohio Pyle River. One camper mentioned, "Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohio Pyle river. Very convenient to the river and town," highlighting the easy access to water activities at Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park.
- Hiking trails: Explore the numerous hiking trails nearby. A visitor at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground said, "The Black Water Falls were also within walking distance and beautiful to see," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Fishing and swimming: Enjoy fishing or swimming at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground. One camper noted, "The only thing that I didn’t like was that there were a lot of sharp stones on the bottom of the swimming part of the lake," so be cautious while enjoying the water.
What campers like
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Audra State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms were spotless with tiled floors and walls," which adds to the overall camping experience.
- Privacy between sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness and privacy of the sites. A visitor at Coopers Rock State Forest mentioned, "Beautiful campground with well spaced sites," making it a peaceful retreat.
- Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground staff. One review for Five River Campground said, "The owners are amazing and so helpful," which can make a big difference in your stay.
What you should know
- Alcohol policies: Some campgrounds, like Swallow Falls State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "The campground is dog friendly, but didn’t realize the park is not," so check the rules before you go.
- Limited amenities: Many campgrounds have basic facilities. A review for Red Creek Campground mentioned, "This campsite is a great jumping off point for a number of hikes throughout Dolly Sods," but it also highlighted the lack of modern amenities.
- Crowded weekends: Expect busier campgrounds on weekends. One camper at Tygart Lake State Park Campground said, "The sites are so close together," which can affect your experience if you prefer solitude.
Tips for camping with families
- Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A review for Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park mentioned, "The campground was not as well maintained as other state parks we have visited but not bad," indicating that some sites may be more suitable for families.
- Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground noted, "There is a lot of hiking nearby," which can be great for family bonding.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. One camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Firewood was cheap," so you can focus on cooking and enjoying meals together.
Tips from RVers
- Check site sizes: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A review for Coopers Rock State Forest warned, "Beware Site 25! Very hard to get into!" so be cautious when selecting your spot.
- Look for electric hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with electric hookups. A camper at Five River Campground said, "Full hook up sites were amazing," which can enhance your camping experience.
- Plan for waste disposal: Ensure the campground has a sanitary dump station. A review for Tygart Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There was a shop where you could purchase wood and supplies," indicating that amenities are available for RVers.
Camping near Shinnston, West Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning and knowledge, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Shinnston, WV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Shinnston, WV is Camp Ara with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Shinnston, WV?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Shinnston, WV, with real photos and reviews from campers.