Dispersed camping options surround Union, West Virginia, situated in the Allegheny Mountain region at elevations ranging from 1,900 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Nearby creeks and rivers create varying humidity levels across camping areas, with most tent sites positioned on compacted soil or gravel surfaces.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Camp Success offers easy access to the local course in Narrows. "There's a Disc Golf Course, Fishing, Camping, and Community Events. Well kept, clean, and perfect," notes a camper at Camp Success.
Trout fishing season: During stocking months, Douthat State Park becomes a popular fishing destination. "I caught a few large trout in the stream on a fly but it really was a bit like fishing in a barrel. There are many hiking trails nearby with a variety of difficulty," explains one visitor.
Water tubing options: The Greenbrier River provides multiple tubing routes of varying lengths. "Tubing is the best trip from Ronceverte to the Campground on the Greenbrier River if you have a full day to just unplug and take in all the sites, sounds and smells around you," mentions a reviewer from Greenbrier River Campground.
Trail exploration: The extensive network at Kairos Wilderness Resort covers over 40 miles. "It sits on 1500 acres and has 41+ miles of trails. The only complaint is the campsites are very close but everyone was friendly and respectful," shares a visitor.
What campers like
Train watching: The railway along Grandview Sandbar creates an unexpected attraction. "Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing," notes one camper at Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Mushroom identification: Little Beaver State Park offers rich biodiversity for amateur naturalists. "Lots of lovely trails to explore. It was quiet and super clean. The only drawback is that you need to drive to the restroom because the walk is a little too far," reports a camper.
Accessibility features: Several campgrounds provide handicap-accessible sites with additional amenities. "Showed up Saturday evening and was able to get a great spot with a view of the river," mentions a visitor about the handicapped spots at Grandview Sandbar.
Historical structures: The CCC-built features at Babcock State Park draw history enthusiasts. "This building and surrounding stone structures, retaining walls, and staircases were built by the CCC and are magnificent and in great shape," explains one detailed review.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Winter access to many glamping sites near Union requires all-wheel drive vehicles due to steep access roads.
Train noise: Railway proximity affects some camping areas. "The really bad thing is that there is a train station directly across the river. And trains will and do pull through every couple of hours 24/7," warns a camper at Grandview Sandbar.
Site spacing variations: Some campgrounds feature closely placed sites. "The inner loop has some mature trees but is wide open and close cut grass...every camper has a view of the other," notes a visitor at Babcock State Park.
Water quality considerations: At Little Beaver State Park Campground, water systems can sometimes present challenges. "Water (though slightly brown with sediment, so bring your filter) and sewer," advises one reviewer about the campground utilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple family-friendly campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Lots of space for kids to play," notes a Greenbrier River Campground visitor.
Wildlife viewing spots: Morning and evening deer sightings are common at specific campgrounds. "A nice playground for children. Lots of deer about. The tent sites have water, fire ring, table and nice shade," shares a camper from Little Beaver.
Swimming hole selection: Non-beach swimming options exist for families seeking natural water experiences. "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. There's a Seperate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes but we rather enjoyed walking to the water from our site and having what seemed like our own little swimming spot," explains a visitor at Bolar Mountain.
Beach alternative: Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers lake swimming from designated areas. "Campground 2 site 53, has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim. Bring water shoes, the rocks can be sharp," advises an experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Approach angles: Some bridges require caution with larger vehicles. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns a visitor about one section of Douthat State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site," notes a camper at Little Beaver State Park.
Dump station configuration: Unusual layouts can require extra maneuvering. "Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump," mentions a visitor at Little Beaver.
Staff assistance: Rifrafters Campground provides exceptional parking help. "We checked in around 7 pm and they walked us to our site AND helped us back in! This was our first trip with this camper and it was such a help after a day of driving in the rain," shares an appreciative RVer.