Best Tent Camping in West Virginia

With over 40 state and national parks, West Virginia’s vast mountainous wilderness begs to be explored. In less than a day’s drive from the Mid-Atlantic’s urban corridor, you can be paddling in swirling whitewater, camping in pristine mountain forests, or stargazing in some of the clearest night skies in the East. It’s time to plan your trip camping in West Virginia!

West Virginia’s inspiring geology has been carved by some of the world’s oldest rivers. Experience these ancient natural forces up close by exploring the nation’s premier whitewater rafting location, New River Gorge. The New River Gorge National River, part of the United States National Park System, extends 53-miles in southern West Virginia. Along with some of the best paddling in the country, rock climbers flock to the 1,400 established climbs in the sandstone cliffs. 70,000-acres of wilderness offer free riverfront primitive camping spots, while campers who want more amenities can take advantage of several private campgrounds in nearby Fayetteville, WV.

If you find yourself camping in West Virginia’s New River Gorge in October, you might catch Bridge Day, the world’s largest extreme sports event. Cheer on BASE jumpers as they leap 900-feet from the top of the river’s bridge while you enjoy local food and craft vendors, live music, and great mountain views.

When planning a trip camping in West Virginia, don’t miss the chance to take in the views from West Virginia’s most famous landmark, Seneca Rocks. Located in the Monongahela National Forest, and renowned for its incredible beauty, this natural landmark rises nearly 900-feet above the North Fork River. Especially well-known in rock climbing circles, the impressive rock formation offers 375 of the most technical mapped climbing routes in the eastern United States. Non-climbers can take in the view from the top by lacing up their boots. The Seneca Rocks Hiking Trail climbs the observation platform and is a day hike suitable for all ages.

Facilities for tent and RV camping, rental cabins, and primitive campsites are available nearby. A local favorite, Seneca Shadows Campground, offers views of the rocks from your campsite, as well as modern facilities including flush toilets and picnic tables. No matter where your outdoor adventures take you in the Wild and Wonderful state, with The Dyrt you’ll find the best camping in West Virginia along the way!

Best Tent Sites in West Virginia (60)

    1. Chestnut Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    Lansing, WV
    Website

    $10 - $11 / night

    "Small primitive, family run campground in the heart of the gorgeous new river gorge area. Owner was super nice,helpful, and welcoming."

    "No electric or water at site but bathhouse with showers. Mostly tent sites in wooded area Our visit was the first full weekend I. November and many other campgrounds were closed for the winter."

    2. Stone Cliff Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    17 Reviews
    Thurmond, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "I used one of the walk in sites about half a mile into the trail. There was plenty of room for 4 tents right along the river. It was a little rocky, but nothing a sleeping pad wouldn't take care of"

    "Tucked away by the river past Thurmond. Great secluded sites. Trailhead for hiking from camp."

    3. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 478-2000

    "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered."

    "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April, but great dispersed car camp and walk-in camp sites."

    4. New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club

    9 Reviews
    Lansing, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 693-2667

    $8 - $30 / night

    "This is a very well thought out campground and is a great option for climbers visiting the area. each site has a wooden tent platform (10'x10') to set up on, which is a huge plus since the ground is so"

    "Super clean bathrooms and flat platforms for tent camping. It’s a little pricey in my opinion but it’s easy to get to and close to lots of climbing."

    5. Little River Dispersed Campsites

    6 Reviews
    Durbin, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 456-3335

    "There’s a couple fire rings up by the parking spot, but we chose to set up a little closer to the creek. It rained a lot while we were there but there were ample trees to set up tarps."

    "Some spots even have picnic tables and fire pits. Nice and quiet."

    6. Bear Heaven Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bowden, WV
    Website

    "About ten tent sites with firepit, picnic table, clean concrete vault toilt. No running water or showers. Close to Elkins and half hour from Davis."

    "Vault toilet and trash. A few minutes down the road from the Bickel Knob fire tower."

    7. Old Mill Campground — Bluestone Lake State Park

    5 Reviews
    Nimitz, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 466-2805

    "West Virginia at its finest! Blue stone state park is right next door to the lake so there are wonderful water activities here."

    "Camp ground was clean, bathhouse was clean and neighbors were all spaced out pretty good. Staff was kind and helpful. We enjoyed ourselves and will for sure go back."

    8. Meadow Creek Campground — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

    4 Reviews
    Meadow Creek, WV
    +1 (304) 465-0508

    "The ranger informed us someone who stayed here in a rv had a close call crossing the train tracks and now they have decided to make this campground a tent only place."

    "Recovering RV park, now tents only. Watched a cluster of fireflies that looked like a lightning storm. Just off the river and just off the highway, no water."

    9. Eagle Rock Campground

    4 Reviews
    Upper Tract, WV

    $10 / night

    "Stayed one night in a tent right next to the river. It is what it is, a West Virginia backwoods campground. $10 will get ya a nights stay."

    10. Plum Orchard Lake WMA

    4 Reviews
    Scarbro, WV
    Website
    +1 (304) 469-9905

    $10 / night

    "Ok vault toilets. Luckily we had an axe, we had to chop a tree that fell overnight blocking the road out of the campsite."

    "Plum Orchard Lake is a wildlife management area with rustic tent and camper sites. You do need to obtain a permit from the manager."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in West Virginia

1281 Reviews of 60 West Virginia Campgrounds



Guide to West Virginia

West Virginia offers a stunning backdrop for tent camping, with its lush landscapes and diverse outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, the state's campgrounds provide a perfect escape into nature.

Scenic Outdoor Activities

  • Experience the beauty of the New River Gorge while camping at Chestnut Creek Campground, where you can enjoy hiking and exploring nearby trails.
  • For a more secluded experience, Little River Dispersed Campsites offers access to wildflower-filled spots right by the river, perfect for fishing and relaxing.
  • If you're looking for a unique adventure, Plum Orchard Lake WMA is ideal for kayaking and fishing, surrounded by serene natural beauty.

Affordable Tent Camping Options

  • Tent camping at Eagle Rock Campground is budget-friendly, with rates starting at just $10 per night, making it a great choice for those looking to save.
  • At Meadow Creek Campground, you can enjoy spacious sites for free, providing an excellent opportunity for a cost-effective getaway.
  • Barnum Whitewater Area offers primitive campsites for $10 a night, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without breaking the bank.

Essential Amenities and Features

  • Brooklyn Campground provides a unique riverside experience with basic amenities like toilets and trash disposal, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Enjoy the rustic charm of Goforth Mountain Homestead, where you can camp on a private homestead with access to fishing and hiking on the property.
  • Camp Ara features drinking water and electric hookups, along with warm hospitality from the hosts, making it a welcoming spot for campers.