The landscape around South Charleston offers a diverse camping experience amid the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and cooling to the 60s at night. Most campgrounds near South Charleston operate between April and October, with limited winter camping available at select locations.
What to do
Water sports on Summersville Lake: Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins provides boat access to this clear, 2,700-acre lake where visitors can swim, paddle, or fish. "The lake swimming was fun (something I am not used to since I am from Florida). Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn!" shares Katie J.
Hiking the New River Gorge: The Outpost at New River Gorge serves as an ideal base for exploring the national park's trail system. "The location is great for getting in and out of town and the park alike, and it was the ideal location for a hike base," notes Benjy B., who appreciated the campground's proximity to trails.
Inflatable water features: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond natural bodies of water. "They have a swimming pond with inflatables, gem mining, banana bikes, and more," reports Zach H. about recreational options for families with children during summer months.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campers highlight bathroom quality as a deciding factor. At Babcock State Park Campground, "the bathhouse was pretty nice and had three showers. The water had some issues while we were there (as in the sink was so hot it physically hurt to wash your hands) but seemed to be a fluke and was fixed by the time we left," according to Kaley A.
Spacious, level sites: Campers frequently mention site size and terrain. At Rifrafters Campground, Larry M. notes, "Up front is a regular campground but we are in the back, secluded and peaceful. Site 34. There are about 8 nice sites out back with water and electricity."
Access to outdoor activities: Proximity to activities ranks high in camper satisfaction. Ace Adventure Resort offers an all-in-one experience where "the sites are up on top of a mountain side, so you will need a dependable vehicle to get up to your site. They are nice sites, providing a picnic table and fire ring. Nearby are showers and restrooms," according to Renee G.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep quality: At Grandview Sandbar Campground, located along the New River, "there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7... Ear plugs only did so much for me," warns Mystic S.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied site types with significant differences. "The tent sites are close to the interstate, so there was A LOT of road noise all night," notes one camper about highway proximity at some locations.
Weather considerations: Spring camping requires preparation for potential flooding. At Grandview Sandbar, campers should know "this was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood," warns Chaz M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with small children, site selection near play areas provides convenience. At Mountain Lake Campground, Nick C. shares, "We took site 269 for the proximity to one of the little playgrounds and easy walk to bathrooms. We had a great time and it was easy to let our 3 year old play while we setup."
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer structured activities after dark. Huntington / Fox Fire KOA provides evening entertainment where "they had so much for kids to do: a swimming pond with inflatables, gem mining, banana bikes, and more," according to William I.
Yurt camping South Charleston, West Virginia options: For families seeking an alternative to tent camping without the expense of cabins, several campgrounds within 45 minutes of South Charleston offer yurt accommodations. "We loved our stay here! The owners are so friendly and welcoming," mentions one visitor about the yurt camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds have partial hookups only. At Adventures on the Gorge, Dustin N. notes, "RV sites are limited, but they're very nice. I wish they had water, and sewer would be an added bonus," highlighting the need to prepare for limited utilities.
Terrain challenges: The mountainous topography creates access issues at some campgrounds. Fred R. cautions about Mountain Lake Campground: "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill."
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should research site dimensions and proximity. At Rifrafters Campground, Kevin A. observed, "sites were very small and close together. Fire ring and picnic table ended up under our awning," which can impact comfort levels during peak season.