Tent campsites near Summersville Lake offer primitive to developed camping options within West Virginia's forested landscape. Located near the 2,700-acre reservoir created by the Summersville Dam on the Gauley River, camping areas range from 1,500 to 1,900 feet elevation. Sites typically experience warm summer days in the 80s F with cooler nights dropping into the 60s, making proper sleeping gear essential for comfort.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Stone Cliff Campground provides easy access to riverside trails where visitors can enjoy native Appalachian flora and fauna. One camper noted, "There is a great trail nearby that runs along the river. Trash bins and restroom located nearby."
Rock climbing: New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club serves as a central base for climbers visiting regional crags. A reviewer mentioned it's "a quick walk to the Junkyard Wall or a short drive to many other classic crags" and that "non-AAC members are also welcome to stay for a more expensive rate."
Water activities: Swimming and fishing opportunities abound at various tent camping locations. At Plum Orchard Lake WMA, a camper shared that "The lake is good for swimming but you're welcome to bring your boat, kayak or canoe too." Another visitor described it as a "Great place for kayaking on a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains of Fayette county."
Historical exploration: Many campsites provide access to the region's coal mining history. Near Brooklyn Campground, the South Side Junction Trail "leads to Thurmond; an almost abandoned coal mining town" according to one visitor, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Chestnut Creek Campground offers secluded tent sites with natural barriers. A visitor mentioned, "Most sites are simple with just a picnic table and fire pit. There are lots of trees in between many of the sites for great privacy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several camping areas provide chances to observe native fauna. At Plum Orchard Lake WMA, campers report being "able to see deer, raccoons and some nice looking birds."
Evening atmosphere: Tent sites at Meadow Creek Campground create memorable nighttime experiences. One camper shared, "Watched a cluster of fireflies that looked like a lightning storm. Just off the river and just off the highway, no water."
Affordability: Brooklyn Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides free camping with basic amenities. A visitor simply stated, "The riverfront spot is perfect and it's a quite secluded campground! And who can beat the price!"
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Summersville Lake are affected by nearby rail lines. At Brooklyn Campground, a reviewer warned, "Note for light sleepers: there is an active railroad across the river and there were probably 5-10 trains the Wednesday night that we stayed."
Weather considerations: The region experiences sudden weather changes. At Stone Cliff Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a camper advised, "Even with the rainy weather the area wasn't too muddy and the campsite we stayed at was level so there wasn't any issue."
Limited facilities: Many tent sites provide only basic amenities. At Meadow Creek Campground, a visitor noted, "You can easily walk to the river from the campground. The gnats were out even in early April, so be sure you have bug protection."
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain features. At Plum Orchard Lake WMA, a camper mentioned, "Long, bumpy dirt road to reach the campsite—it could be fun in the right vehicle. Decent sites, heavily wooded."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easy water access: Look for campgrounds with gentle river or lake frontage for kids to explore. At Stone Cliff Campground, a family noted, "I loved the experience I had at stone cliff. The camp sites are well marked and maintained. There are some right on the river and a couple more set back closer to the trail."
Consider bathroom proximity: Meadow Creek Campground offers clean facilities that work well for family camping. A visitor reported, "The sites are spacious and each site has a sturdy metal table and BBQ pit. The vault bathroom was clean at the time I visited."
Pack for varying temperatures: The region experiences significant day-to-night temperature drops. Bring layers for everyone, especially for spring and fall camping when temperature swings can exceed 30°F between day and night.
Bring pet-friendly gear: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. A Stone Cliff visitor shared, "My dog absolutely loved it-the swimming was A+ and the stick selection was up to her standards."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Plum Orchard Lake WMA, a camper advised, "Luckily we had an axe, we had to chop a tree that fell overnight blocking the road out of the campsite."
Consider campground elevation changes: Be mindful of steep terrain at some locations. One visitor to Stone Cliff Beach noted, "So we had no idea there was a steep gravel decline to get to the camp site. My wife and I had brought our hatchback instead of our SUV- so our fault, but if this had been mentioned somewhere then we would have known."
Know vehicle restrictions: Some campgrounds have changed their policies regarding RVs. At Meadow Creek, a camper explained, "The ranger informed us someone who stayed here in a rv had a close call crossing the train tracks and now they have decided to make this campground a tent only place."
