Tent camping near West Milford, West Virginia offers access to densely forested areas in the central Appalachian region at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Weather conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Local camping areas feature distinctive rock formations and multiple watershed access points within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Hike to scenic overlooks: Rhododendron Camping Area provides direct trail access to viewpoints. "There is a bathhouse located closest to site 5 with trails from other sites to get there. The campground is in walking distance to the overlook and most of the trails," notes Sienna L.
Explore unique rock formations: Just minutes from Bear Heaven Campground, visitors can climb among distinctive boulder formations. According to Adam W., "Right beside the camp ground is a really cool area to explore unique boulders and rock structures. You can either walk through or climb these boulders."
Fishing and paddling: Local waterways offer multiple fishing spots within 15 miles of West Milford. At Hune Bridge Campground, "The creeks are also great for fishing and float trips... This campground also serves as the local 'take out' for the river," according to Shari G.
Visit Bickle Knob fire tower: Located a short drive from several camping areas, this lookout offers panoramic views. Adam W. shares, "Just a few miles up the mountain you can go to Bickles Knob firetower and get one of the best views in the state."
What campers like
Clean, spacious sites: Tent campers appreciate the well-maintained areas. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds! It is quiet and the sites are spacious," writes Sienna L. about Rhododendron Camping Area.
Private, wooded settings: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites despite their accessibility. At Kinderhook Trailhead, "We pulled in and there was one couple setup at a designated site (picnic table and fire pit). As we drove around the trailhead, we found a second designated site," explains Dare To Everywhere.
Seasonal attractions: Spring and fall offer distinct camping experiences. "Visit in spring with mountain laurel, rhododendrons, etc. are blooming in the nearby lands, it's like nothing else!" recommends Amber A. about Bear Heaven Campground.
Historic features: Several camping areas include unique cultural landmarks. Hune Bridge Campground features "a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard," according to Shari G.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many primitive sites lack potable water. At Bear Heaven, Amber A. advises, "Sites are wooded and relatively private with basic facilities but no drinking water (bring treatment methods for the stream)."
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas provide only basic amenities. At Conaway Run State Lake, "Porta potties are all that is available. No running water so you have to bring your own," notes Liz Y.
Timing considerations: Campsites fill quickly during peak seasons. Ed M. observes that Bear Heaven is "a nice campground that is seldom full. About ten tent sites with firepit, picnic table, clean concrete vault toilt."
Cell service information: Connectivity varies by location. At Kinderhook Trailhead, campers report "perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service" according to one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Early morning activities: Encourage kids to rise early for special views. Emily M. recommends, "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!" at Rhododendron Camping Area.
Consider bathroom access: Facilities vary significantly between sites. Emily M. adds, "The bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting."
Friendly atmosphere: Some campgrounds offer particularly welcoming environments. At Camp Ara, Kaitlin B. describes, "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more? The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality."
Swimming options: Not all sites have water access for swimming. For lakeside options, check Camp Ara where visitors mention access to "a beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most sites near West Milford are primitive with few RV amenities. Seth V. describes Hune Bridge as "a great drive in campsite perfect for family and friends to get into the woods for a bit."
Small trailer considerations: Larger RVs may struggle at most local campgrounds. At Bear Heaven, campsites accommodate smaller vehicles but Ed M. notes there's "no running water or showers" making it primarily "primitive campsites."
Multi-use areas: Some camping areas serve dual purposes. Kinderhook Trailhead is primarily "the equestrian Kinderhook Trailhead within Wayne National Forest" where "there were a lot of horses and trailers throughout the day. Before sunset, everyone cleared out and only campers remained."
Free camping options: Several areas offer no-cost camping. Hune Bridge Campground "is completely FREE, and you can stay for up to 14 days," according to Shari G.
