Camping in the Waiteville area sits at elevations ranging from 2,000-3,000 feet within the Appalachian Mountain range, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with occasional snow accumulation, while summer brings daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F with cooler evenings. Weather patterns can change quickly in this mountainous terrain, requiring campers to prepare for temperature fluctuations even during summer months.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: Access the New River for swimming and cooling off at Army Camp Campground, located within New River Gorge National Park. "It's hard to beat a free campsite right on the river... I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," reports one visitor. The campground features a short hiking trail along the river's edge.
Disc golf courses: Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground offers a 9-hole disc golf course on-site. "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!" The course winds through grassy hills with moderate elevation changes, making it suitable for beginners.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for fishing. The New River contains smallmouth bass, catfish, and various panfish species. "If you enjoy fishing, the New River Gorge website offers a lot of specific information about species, bait, and lures," notes a camper who stayed at Army Camp.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated terrain provides scenic views from many campsites. At Summer Wind RV Park, campers appreciate the panoramic landscape. "Amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet! Recharge here! Full hook ups, dog friendly, very level gravel site with a stunning view of the pastures," writes one reviewer.
Natural water features: Beyond swimming, the rivers and streams offer peaceful ambiance. "The powerful drone of the New River never subsides," mentions one Army Camp visitor, highlighting how the constant sound of flowing water creates a natural soundtrack for camping.
Wildlife watching: Early risers can observe local fauna. "Sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings," reports a Summer Wind RV Park guest. Bird watchers should bring binoculars as the area hosts numerous songbird species, with robins and crows being particularly vocal at Army Camp.
What you should know
Train noise: Some riverside campgrounds sit near active rail lines. At Eggleston Springs Campground, "A train goes by across the river every few hrs and we love hearing it!" However, some pets may find it disturbing: "The trains though! My dog did not appreciate them, but overall nice place."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide potable water, especially the more rustic options. One camper at Army Camp notes it's "vitally important to realize there is no running water at any of these campgrounds. You must bring water or filter it from the New River...which I wouldn't recommend."
Limited services: Most campgrounds in the immediate Waiteville area have minimal amenities. While full-service rv sites near Waiteville, West Virginia exist, many smaller locations operate with limited staff. "No on-site management, you have to txt for reservations," mentions a camper at Summer Wind RV Park, which uses an honor system for payment.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several locations offer child-friendly water recreation. Pipestem RV Park & Campground features water activities for various ages. "We enjoyed lots of the amenities, including the horseback riding, nature center and giant water inflatables," reports a family traveling with a 37-foot trailer.
Playgrounds and recreation: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "They have a very nice swingset," notes a visitor to Brushcreek Falls. Many campgrounds also maintain open grassy areas suitable for family games.
Educational opportunities: The region's mining heritage offers learning experiences. One camper suggests: "Check out some of the mining history at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, about 30 minutes away, and get up early to catch the sunrise from Grandview Point."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustments. At Brushcreek Falls RV Resort, one RVer advised: "We're a triple axl so we had to take it nice and slow getting there with the road and even navigating the property but it was fine."
Road access considerations: The mountain roads leading to rv camping near Waiteville, West Virginia require careful navigation. "Just beware when getting here there is a very narrow road, little to at times no room to allow for another vehicle if you happen to meet up. Some large rigs got through it just don't go fast," warns a visitor to Shady Rest RV Park.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "Easy off and on the interstate and we fit fine driving 40' towing," shares an RVer about Summer Wind. "If you want easy level spots row c is best (which is where 50 amps are)."
