Tent sites along the Greenbrier River offer direct water access at several campgrounds near Union, West Virginia. Located in the Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,000 feet, this region experiences cool nights even during summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 50s. Visitors bringing pets to campgrounds in this area should pack extra supplies as dedicated pet amenities are limited.
What to do
River activities: Access the Greenbrier River at Greenbrier River Campground where paddling options include guided trips and rentals. "I did a rv rental. I love the swimming area my kids had such a great time," reports Brooke M. The campground offers organized river experiences as noted by Rebecca F.: "It's a great campground with kayak and canoe trips. Lots of fishing and swimming available. Tubing is the best trip from Ronceverte to the Campground on the Greenbrier River if you have a full day."
Mountain biking: Explore forest roads and trails at Greenbrier State Forest with interconnected routes suitable for beginners and intermediates. As Dan N. mentions, the forest connects to "other state and national lands for lots of hiking and other recreation options." The campground provides a central location for accessing these trails.
Family recreation: Pipestem Resort State Park Campground offers structured activities beyond standard camping. Jennifer S. reports: "Lots of places to bike ride for my family of young kids (4 & 8). They also had a nicely updated park for the kids to play." The park includes additional paid attractions: "They have zipling, axe throwing, disc shooting and archery, play grounds and splash water park," according to Marie B.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Wooded sites at Greenbrier State Forest provide more seclusion than other area campgrounds. John H. describes: "There are only about 20 RV sites, well-spaced for privacy. The dense tree canopy blocked StarLink satellite connection at our site." Anthony I. adds that sites are "well-appointed, well-maintained, wooded, and peaceful."
Riverside camping: Tent campers particularly enjoy waterfront access at River Ridge Campground. "It has the best little area along the Greenbrier River for easy kayaking, fishing or floating in inner tubes," shares Justin & Jen S., who adds, "We even rented a kayak for few hours and put in up the river passes the people bridge and came out right back at the campground an hour later."
Clean facilities: Many area campgrounds maintain their bathroom facilities regularly. At Pipestem, Molly F. appreciates "Trash cans have raccoon lids & are picked up daily." Some sites have unique cleanliness features as Charlie O. notes about Greenbrier River Campground: "They even come by in the morning to pock up your trash."
What you should know
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At White Rocks Campground, Joe H. warns "This is a great spot to get away from almost everything. No cell, no wifi, no hook ups, no showers." Kevin M. confirms: "There is no cell signal or WiFi, so perfectly made for escaping the daily grind."
Facility maintenance challenges: Some campgrounds struggle with upkeep. At White Rocks, Robert T. reports: "Rundoing, overgrown and no water for 4+ years. I've contacted forestry personnel on several occasions, seems no interest in repairs. Bath buildings are closed and in a sad state."
Train noise: Railroad tracks near some campgrounds create periodic disruptions. Cindy B. reports at Greenbrier River Campground: "Some people didn't like the trains that passed by periodically." AUDIOMIND adds more detail: "On top of that, there are railroad tracks right across the river that are almost as busy with long trains. I stopped counting at 7 our first evening."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: Swimming facilities often require cash payment. Katie M. shares about Moncove Lake State Park Campground: "There is a pool here (you have to pay to get in- it's not included if you're camping). Bring cash if you want to swim in the pool. There is no ATM at the campground and the closest town is like 40 mins away."
Alternatives to swimming pools: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for cooling off. At Greenbrier River Campground, Anthony D. suggests: "Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept." Sandy S. adds: "Friendly people, waterfront site on river, 2 hour tubing float down river ending up at my campsite!"
Pet accommodations: While most campgrounds allow pets, amenities for dogs are minimal. At CB Ranch, cabins are pet-friendly and provide more comfort than tent camping. Cheryl B. notes: "The cabin was decorated very nicely and was clean and the bed was very comfy also."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on size and terrain requirements. At Greenbrier State Forest, Jesse D. advises: "Good size sites. Most are level. No water or sewer or on site dump station." For larger rigs, John H. cautions: "Accessing the campground involves driving 3 miles off I-64 on State 60/14, Harts Run Rd, a winding and narrow two-lane road, which might be a challenge for larger RV trailers and motorhomes."
Water quality: Bring filtration equipment for campgrounds with questionable water. At Summer Wind RV Park, visitors note good hookup access but potential water issues similar to those at other area campgrounds where sediment is common.
Off-season considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. At Greenbrier State Forest, campers note the season runs "2nd Fri April to October 31" while Summer Wind RV Park operates "May 1 to Oct 15," making advance planning essential for shoulder season visits.
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