Primitive camping near Whitmer, West Virginia offers backcountry experiences in a region where elevations range from 2,000 to over 4,000 feet. The area experiences frequent temperature swings with nighttime temperatures often dropping 20-30 degrees below daytime highs, even in summer months. Most dispersed sites require camping at least 200 feet from water sources and roadways when not in designated areas.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Several established hiking options exist near Dolly Sods Backcountry, where trails lack formal markers. One camper noted, "There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing. A good physical map and compass, the skills needed to use them, are vital here."
Fish in mountain streams: Multiple sites offer fishing opportunities close to camp. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, visitors report excellent fishing conditions. According to one camper, "It's amazing and peaceful. Plus the fishing is wonderful."
Explore unique ecosystems: The region contains diverse terrain within short distances. As one visitor explained, "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."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many sites offer privacy between camping areas. At Little River Dispersed Campsites, "There's a couple fire rings up by the parking spot, but we chose to set up a little closer to the creek. When you park and walk down to the river, if you turn right, there's a beach area about 50 yards down that offers a great spot to take a dip!"
Natural swimming holes: Several creek-side locations provide swimming opportunities during warmer months. One camper at Gandy Creek observed, "Several spots along the creek are deep enough for swimming."
Star-gazing opportunities: Mountain elevations and minimal light pollution create excellent night sky viewing. At Dispersed camping at Mower Basin, "The moon was bright but you could still see hundreds of stars. There was a fire ring and enough space to fit a car and tent, but other sites were large enough to fit many cars and a dozen people."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. For Little River, "About 7+ miles in from the town of Durbin on a dirt road... the road is narrow and you'll need to pull off to the side to let cars pass coming in, and the road is riddled with pot holes and is entirely gravel."
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active in the region. One camper warned, "We were charged by an extremely aggressive black bear, fortunately with plenty of noise and shouting and slowly backing away we avoided further conflict! We decided to keep ALL FOOD in the car's trunk those nights and not hanging in a tree just to be safe."
Seasonal popularity: Sites fill quickly during peak periods, especially near water. At Lower Glady Dispersed Campground, one visitor cautioned, "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some locations offer easier access for children. At Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle... There are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that are tricker to see while driving."
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevations cause significant temperature variations. One camper at Dolly Sods shared, "Definitely be prepared for high winds and rain. We hiked in in warm weather and once we reached the top of a long entrance road (where one trailhead was) we found snow."
Consider quieter weekdays: Weekend crowds can be substantial at popular sites. A visitor to Lower Glady observed, "Arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty. The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many dispersed areas have limited space for RVs. At Stonecoal Dispersed Camping Area, "The campsites are just pullouts in the road with fire pits. Good quality dirt access road, no problem for my Honda Civic. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways."
Avoid narrow forest roads: Several access routes present challenges for larger vehicles. A camper at Canaan Loop Road advised, "The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain. If you follow the road, there is a river crossing that will take you to additional camp spots."
Camp near facilities when needed: Limited sites offer amenities. At Lower Glady, "Sites near the vaulted toilet... Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky. Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large."
