Free dispersed camping options near Summersville, West Virginia offer alternatives to traditional RV parks for outdoor enthusiasts. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Several campgrounds within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provide primitive sites with varying levels of accessibility and amenities.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Army Camp Campground provides direct access to riverside trails with additional options a short drive away. "One trail on far side of parking area that I haven't been on yet. Great area," notes Billy C., who rates this free campground highly.
Mountain biking: Arrowhead Bike Farm combines camping with mountain biking opportunities. "They have an assortment of accessible bike trails, bike shop, AMAZING FOOD (tacos, pretzels, spinach artichoke dip, etc.), spectacular local beers and PBR, GOAT PENS, camping, a pump track, and lots of cool things to do in the local area," shares Aspen H.
Water activities: Glade Creek Campground offers river access where Glade Creek meets the New River. "The creek joins the New River here, you can hear the water from the sites," explains Juliana in her review. The campground features 6 walk-in tent sites and 5 drive-in sites suitable for tents or medium-sized vehicles.
What campers like
Free camping options: For budget-conscious campers, Army Camp provides established sites without fees. "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May," reports Rachel S.
Quiet surroundings: Shady Rest RV Park offers a peaceful alternative to larger facilities. "Has adequate facilities for RVs, one restroom that was dated but clean and a host. You can hear the highway, but a quiet place overall. However we got a good night's sleep!" writes reviewer Eric.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Summer Wind RV Park, one camper mentions, "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings." The rural setting provides natural habitat for various wildlife species that frequent the area.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Some RV campgrounds near Summersville operate on different reservation systems. At Summer Wind, "Booking was a little strange, there's no website or confirmation. You pay by check in a lockbox. But there was plenty of room and everything worked out fine," explains Whistle P.
Seasonal operations: Summer Wind RV Park operates from May 1 to October 15, making advance planning necessary for off-season travel. "The campground is clean and well maintained. AT&T and Verizon both 5 bars," notes Randy G., who visited in spring 2024.
Access challenges: Road conditions can present obstacles for certain vehicles. For Glade Creek Campground, "The gravel road to get here is a fun drive," mentions Zayne W., though others note the road has potholes despite being graded. Shady Rest RV Park visitors caution about "a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse offers amenities for families with children. "Their bathrooms & showers are cleaned and well maintained. They have an outdoor sink to wash dishes. RV camping as well. A great playground too for the kids," writes Renée C.
Fire safety considerations: Several campgrounds have specific fire regulations to follow. "We got lucky to find a site here after trying both Grandview Sandbar and Glade's Creek on the other side of the road," reports Tucker B. about Army Camp, where fire rings are provided at each site but campers need to bring their own firewood.
Space for activities: Some sites provide more room than others for family recreation. At Rifrafters Campground, one camper reports, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When choosing an RV campground near Summersville, consider the leveling and hookup options. At Elk River Camp and RV Park, "Mix of wonderful water and electric sites with ok full hookups. Beautiful river spots. The owner was wonderful. No laundry, showers or wifi. The price was $40 a night full hookups," shares John R.
Parking logistics: Some campgrounds require careful maneuvering. "Late arrival for overnight stay. Mark, the owner & host, asked us to call & he'd meet us at local gas station so we could follow him to our site. Narrow gravel road to get to the newly developed portion of campground," explains Beth R. about Elk River Camp. For larger rigs, ensure access before arrival.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping options vary by season. "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," notes Larry M. about Rifrafters, which maintains year-round RV camping while tent camping closes from November to April.
