Free dispersed camping options near Union, West Virginia provide alternatives to established RV parks. The National Park Service maintains several no-fee campsites along the New River Gorge, situated at elevations between 1,400-2,800 feet. Seasonal temperature variations from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer affect campground accessibility, with many free sites closing during winter months due to mountainous road conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Army Camp Campground features trails directly from the campsite to the New River shoreline. "Easy access to river, able to hear it from campsite. Very clean pit toilet bathroom. Road to access is single lane paved/gravel. Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds," notes Caroline F.
Water activities: Greenbrier River Campground provides water-based recreation options including tubing down the river. "We loved this park. Had so much fun there. Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept," reports Anthony D.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campsites offer opportunities for wildlife observation. At Meador Campground, "There were TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay," according to Jay N.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free camping at Army Camp Campground appeals to many visitors. "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. Peaceful and quiet!" shares Rachel S.
Spacious sites: Pipestem RV Park & Campground receives positive feedback for site dimensions. "We camped at Pipestem in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking. We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," writes Molly F.
Privacy options: While some campgrounds have sites close together, others offer more seclusion. "It's a very family friendly campground with clean sits and spacious sites for hammocks and tents. The bathroom facilities are good and clean and they even have a washer and dryer hookup," notes Andrew S.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating narrow mountain roads. "The road getting back to the site is a little sketch but worth the trip in. Just remember you have to make that trip all the way back out if you forget anything at the store," warns Corda B.
Seasonal considerations: Most free campgrounds close during winter, while some rv parks Union, West Virginia remain open year-round. At Glade Creek Campground, "During our visit, in early May, it had been and was still experiencing heavy rains and flooding. Even then, it is a beautiful location," shares Dave V.
Reservation systems: Practices vary significantly between campgrounds. At Army Camp, "FCFS. Spots are large enough to fit 2 vehicles. Sites are gravel with fire pit, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Spots are shaded," explains Caroline F.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Brushcreek Falls RV Resort offers swimming facilities. "Just a one night stay. Very clean and well kept campground. Our site was level. The pool was wonderful. Has everything you need... playgrounds, multiple laundry rooms, putt putt, store, restrooms... Would stay again," recommends Noel L.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature recreational equipment for children. "We had plenty of room to park our RV and there was a very nice new swingset nearby. Noticed multiple people utilizing the fishing pond and there was a cornhole tournament going on at the other side of the park," mentions Julie M.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings provide educational opportunities. "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," shares Randy G. about his experience at a local campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers recommend checking site conditions before arrival. "We stayed in a 37' travel trailer. We love this campground. Quiet, well spaced, nice roads for biking," reports Molly F. about Pipestem RV Park.
Hookup configurations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Campground was empty. Beautiful area. Only disappointing thing they have only tent sites near the water. It would have been nice if there were a few RV sites near the water," notes Pamela L. at Meador Campground.
Cell service variability: Signal strength differs significantly between campgrounds. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)," writes Tucker B. about Army Camp.
