Thurmond sits at the heart of the New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia, nestled between steep forested hillsides at approximately 1,070 feet elevation. The area features dramatic terrain with elevations varying from 1,000 to over 3,000 feet across camping locations, creating diverse microclimates throughout the year. Tent campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations of 15-20 degrees between day and night, particularly during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Hike riverside trails year-round: At Grandview Sandbar Campground, campers access river trails within steps of their sites. "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious. Car spots lack the view, but they're quiet. Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing," notes one visitor who found unexpected relaxation during their stay.
Experience the outdoor adventure complex: The 5-mile network of mountain biking trails at Ace Adventure Resort connects directly to camping areas. "From whitewater rafting to the waterpark to their 15+ different adventures, Ace Adventure Resort has it all," writes a reviewer. The campground maintains over 1,500 acres of recreational land with trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty.
Explore historical sites: Military history enthusiasts can examine remains of WWII-era training facilities at Army Camp Campground. "Military history buffs will appreciate the remains of an Army training encampment along the gravel road driving in. Known for equipping soldiers to build floating bridges across rivers to move troops and heavy artillery," explains a camper who enjoyed this historical dimension of their outdoor experience.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: Rifrafters Campground offers secluded camping areas behind the main facility. "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," shares a satisfied camper who discovered this quieter section of the property.
Accessibility of free camping: First-come, first-served sites at Army Camp Campground provide budget-friendly options with basic amenities. "You cant beat free! We spent a night here on our way to Ohio. It has a small loop of campsites near the river. Campsites were mowed and it was a short walk to a really nice spot on the river," reports a visitor who appreciated the zero-cost camping with river access.
Yurt camping comfort: Yurt camping near Thurmond, West Virginia offers the perfect middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals. "The tent sites have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious," notes a camper who opted for a rustic option at one campground, though many visitors upgrade to yurt accommodations at Mountain Lake Campground for added comfort in variable weather conditions.
What you should know
Weather impacts river campgrounds: Spring rains can cause rapid flooding at lower-elevation sites. "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive...30 ft from our tent pad. Even though it had not rained in 18 hours, the New River continued to swell," warns a camper about conditions at riverside locations.
Reservations essential for peak seasons: At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, summer weekends fill months in advance. "Mountain Lake Campground is a massive system of varied campsites (hammock sites to large full-hookups). The campground is very large with multiple nice playgrounds for children, hiking trails, frisbee golf, miniature golf, a beach lake access," describes a visitor highlighting the popularity of this multi-activity destination.
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging access roads. "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," advises a camper who faced difficult terrain at Mountain Lake Campground, noting that low-clearance vehicles might struggle on certain approaches.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near playgrounds: Little Beaver State Park Campground offers family-oriented sites with playground access. "I enjoyed this campground. A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade. Lots of lovely trails to explore," shares a parent who found the setup ideal for younger campers.
Consider timing for water activities: When planning yurt camping near Thurmond, West Virginia with children, note that water recreation peaks from mid-June through early September. "The lake is amazing, clear and has so many visual gems that I highly suggest a visit," recommends a family that stayed at Mountain Lake Campground, though they caution that weekends bring heavier boat traffic compared to quieter weekdays.
Pack extra layers year-round: Temperature fluctuations require adaptable clothing even in summer months. "The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything," reports a camper at Babcock State Park, noting that even spring and fall camping requires preparation for significant overnight cooling in the gorge area.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Babcock State Park Campground requires careful site selection for larger rigs. "Most of the sites are wooded and would be a bit difficult for a rig our size but they are very nice. The bathhouse is very clean with great water pressure and hot water. There is also a small laundry room," notes an RVer who appreciated the facilities despite site limitations.
Electric load management: During peak summer heat, monitor power usage carefully. "A/C power was an issue. 1 camper had 30 amp breaker blow 2 days in a row and my 50 amp ran A.C. units fan but didn't cool all day," warns a camper at Mountain Lake Campground, suggesting that during 90°+ days, power infrastructure may struggle with multiple air conditioning units.
Limited full-hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer water/electric only, with dump stations instead of sewer connections. "For a Saturday night in camping season, they were not very full (especially in the tent section), so the extra space was nice. Some of the RV sites looked pretty close with little privacy (but we're tent campers so my opinion doesn't really count)," observes a visitor at Rifrafters Campground, highlighting the comparative spacing differences between accommodation types.
