Camping sites near Camden-on-Gauley, West Virginia sit at elevations between 2,100-3,800 feet, creating significant temperature variations even in summer months. The region receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually, supporting the dense hardwood forests surrounding most campsites. Access to potable water varies significantly by campground, with many primitive sites requiring campers to bring all water supplies.
What to do
Trout fishing: $5 riverside primitive sites can be found between established campgrounds along the Cranberry River. At Big Rock Campground, campers appreciate the fishing access. "Long path along river, very beautiful area," notes Heather L. The Cranberry River area offers both stocked and wild trout.
Waterfall exploration: Hills Creek Falls is accessible from several area campgrounds. Three distinct waterfalls range from 25 to 65 feet in height. A camper visiting Summit Lake Campground mentioned, "Multiple areas to fish including lake and river. Beautiful waterfalls and access via bike trails."
Scuba diving: Summersville Lake reaches depths up to 327 feet with exceptional water clarity. Dive shops in Summersville offer equipment rentals. "Summersville Lake is surrounded by cliffs topped by trees. Perfect for exploring by boat," reports Dan N. who stayed at Battle Run.
What campers like
Mountain isolation: Many campers value the remote locations for stargazing and wildlife viewing. At Cranberry River Sites, Joseph K. noted simply, "There are bears." Appropriate food storage is essential throughout the region due to active black bear populations.
River sounds: Riverside camping provides natural white noise for sleeping. A visitor to Gauley Tailwaters Campground shared, "This was the best camping experience. waking up to the sound of the river and then paired with the most gorgeous view. unbeatable. way worth the drive to get there."
Diverse camping environments: The region offers both high-elevation mountain ridge sites and riverside locations. Mike F. described his experience: "Backpacked and Camped here multiple times for both hiking and fishing. The main trail is graveled and very easily accessed. It runs along the Cranberry River with beautiful views all along the way."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for communications blackout in most camping areas. While the existing description mentions limited cell service, specific locations with connectivity include: "Had service in Richwood" and at Mountain Lake Campground a camper noted, "I had great cell service."
Variable bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies widely between campgrounds. A visitor to Mountain Lake reported, "Gross as in they didn't look cleaned regularly, the shower heads were terrible, never looked cleaned, rusty." By contrast, campers at Summersville Lake Retreat describe "clean bathrooms."
Seasonal conditions: Spring fishing attracts crowds to Cranberry River areas, while summer focuses on lake recreation. Fall foliage season brings additional visitors. A visitor to Summit Lake noted, "Our first trip to this area and we weren't disappointed. Wonderful country and scenery...We shall return at some point when it doesn't snow between 80 degree weeks."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Summersville Lake Retreat, visitors appreciate family amenities: "Sites are big, easily accessible, clean, and not too close to your neighbors... Weekend activities for the kids, putt putt, a pool, several swingset/play areas."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe deer and various bird species from campsites. One family reported, "Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn! They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store."
Lake swimming options: Several campgrounds provide beach access with designated swimming areas. A family camping at Battle Run shared, "We had a tent site with a fire pit and picnic table on a point of land surrounded by water! We didn't fish much but the swimming was incredible!"
Tips from RVers
Power challenges: Electrical service reliability varies at hookup sites. At Mountain Lake, campers reported: "A/C power was an issue. 1 camper had 30 amp breaker blow 2 days in a row and my 50 amp ran A.C. units fan but didn't cool all day."
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring blocking. Tamara W. warned, "The cons most sites are not level at all, there is one single bath house for each level making some sites very far from a bathroom/shower."
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds require careful navigation. Fred R. noted about Mountain Lake, "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill."
