Camping sites near Upper Tract, West Virginia offer exceptional backcountry experiences at elevations ranging from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. The region's terrain creates microclimates with temperature variations of 15-20 degrees between valleys and highlands, even during summer months. Primitive and dispersed camping areas throughout the Monongahela National Forest remain significantly cooler than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 40s even in July.
What to do
Tubing on natural lazy rivers: At Big Bend Campground, the South Branch Potomac River creates a unique float experience. "A natural lazy river surrounds the campground and is a great location for fishing and river activities. The water level was a little low, but you could still float on your inter tube around the entire loop. The entire loop took a little over an hour to complete, then a 2 minute walk, and start again," reports Jon C.
Stargazing from high elevations: The minimal light pollution at Spruce Knob Lake Campground creates exceptional night sky viewing. "You're in the middle of nowhere, so you do have a truly dark sky," notes Jean C. The campground sits near West Virginia's highest point at 4,863 feet, offering unobstructed celestial views from both the camping area and the nearby lake.
Creek-side camping and hiking: Dispersed sites along Gandy Creek provide direct creek access with privacy. "Very nice area several nice spot right along the creek. Areas are spread out and private. Nice spot to relax and escape along creek," says Marino. Several established fire rings can be found along the creek, and numerous hiking trails connect to the camping areas.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the size and spacing of sites at Blackwater Falls State Park Campground. "It is quiet and the campground is not too large, it's not stuffed with RV's and screaming children. The sites are reasonably sized, and well spaced," explains Kellie A. The campground layout creates natural buffers between most sites.
Diverse terrain for exploration: The unusual ecosystem at Dolly Sods Backcountry offers an experience unlike typical Appalachian camping. "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana," writes Ben. The terrain resembles Canadian tundra more than typical West Virginia forest.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Many campgrounds maintain surprisingly good facilities. "The campground is very clean, with plenty of trash bins and protected drinking water spigots—almost every site has one nearby. The bathrooms were spotless, and the showers were hot—almost too hot! Definitely one of the best free showers we've had," reports Denis P. about Brandywine Lake Campground.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell coverage is virtually non-existent at most Monongahela Forest campgrounds. "No cell service. Nearest cell reception is a 20 minute drive away," notes Jon C. about Big Bend Campground. Even at more developed areas, connection is unreliable.
Challenging road conditions: Access to remote sites can require high-clearance vehicles or careful driving. "Once you turn onto Switzer Lake Rd from U.S. 33 and find the parking area to the lake on your left, be prepared to drive another 2ish miles on a single lane and very bumpy dirt road. Go slow as several sharp corners with huge drops and inexperienced drives coming towards you," warns Mike C.
Unpredictable weather patterns: The mountains create localized weather systems. "Know that it will likely rain on you in Dolly Sods, so always bring rain gear. Also realize, that with climate and conditions similar to the Canadian Tundra, temperatures and winds vary and fluctuate often, any time of year," advises Dave V. Temperature swings of 30+ degrees within 24 hours are common.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for kids: Brandywine Lake Campground offers family-friendly water features. "I love this campground because they have showers & toilets there, a fun beach on the lake for swimming and a fishing dock as well. There's actually woods around with you hiking trails unlike a lot of campgrounds I've seen recently," says Rachel B. The level terrain also makes it easy for children to navigate.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning hours offer the best chance to see local fauna. "Every morning we were there, fog had enveloped the canyon. Campground is well maintained and facilities are very clean," shares Jon C. about his family's experience at Big Bend. The hundreds of fireflies visible in summer evenings also create a memorable experience for children.
Reservations for peak seasons: Secure spots well in advance for summer weekends. "We came here on a weekday with hardly anyone staying near us and rose around sunrise to catch the light over the rocks. It was such an easy and short distance to get there," notes Cierra A. about Seneca Shadows. Weekday visits typically offer more availability and quieter surroundings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for hookups: At Seneca Shadows, RV campers should specifically request C-Loop. "Seneca Shadows Campground has three loops to choose from: The A& B Loops are for tents or RVs with no electric service. The C-Loop has electricity," explains Jennifer B. The campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet, though some turns can be tight.
Limited dump and water access: RV campers should arrive with full water tanks. "They have electric hook up with a dumpstation and non flush toilets. Other than that its perfect," notes Melissa M. Water fill stations are limited, and access can involve waiting during busy periods.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours and generator limitations. "This campground is a short drive from Seneca Rock. Wind back into the woods for camping in a quaint quite setting (A-D) or camp in the meadowlands with Seneca Rock in the background," advises Jillian E. about navigating the different loop options and their varying rules.
