Lakeside camping in West Virginia

Alpine vistas extend in all directions in the Mountain State.

95% (756 reviews)

United States
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West Virginia

95% (756 reviews)

Popular camping styles for West Virginia

Community favorites in West Virginia

Public campgrounds in West Virginia

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Seneca Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Seneca State Forest

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Riverside Campground

50 sites · RVs, Tents In Watoga State Park

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McCollum Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Coopers Rock State Forest

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Babcock Campground

52 sites · RVs, Tents In Babcock State Park

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Moncove Lake Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In Moncove Lake State Park

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Plum Orchard Lake Campground

38 sites · RVs, Tents In Plum Orchard Lake WMA

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Glade Creek Grist Mill Cabin

13 sites In Babcock State Park

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Old Mill Campground

44 sites · RVs, Tents In Bluestone State Park

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Little Beaver Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Little Beaver State Park

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Cokeley Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In North Bend State Park

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Hawk Recreation Area

15 sites · RVs, Tents In George Washington National Forest

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Brandywine Recreation Area

46 sites · RVs, Tents In George Washington National Forest

Stories from the community

Morgan

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

I highly recommend staying at Peak + Pine campsite! The site was gorgeous, peaceful, and private enough! As a solo traveler, I felt safe and comfortable! Elle was an amazing host who went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and safe (terrible thunderstorm). I would definitely stay again.

1 night at Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

Had an amazing stay! Kelli is one of the sweetest hosts. My car could not make it up the hill, so she and her husband helped me bring my stuff up in their side by side (and helped me bring it back down for check out). The site itself was very quiet and clean. They had set up dog treats and fresh water for my pup which was really sweet. And the fire was already set up with all the logs, kindle ,etc. Kelli seems super passionate about the sites and I'm excited to see how much they continue to grow!

2 nights at Bluestone Camp & Retreat

We had an absolutely lovely time! It was so peaceful and quiet. The word "idyllic" was mentioned several times. We have already started talking about going back sometime.

1 night at Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

One part adventure, one part primitive with a sprinkle of bougie. These sites let you really feel like you are out there without being too far off the beaten path. Doug and Kelli are the most hospitable folks you'll find. Small things like stocked firewood, water and treats for your four legged friends (when applicable) are just some of the thoughtful touches you'll find. If you are looking for some solitude without the attitude this is up your alley.

2 nights at Bluestone Camp & Retreat

The road to get to the camp is hard but it’s worth it. If you’ve been following the Lord, it’s a hard road, but it’s absolutely worth it. When you get to the little church that’s hidden in the corner and the cross is there overlooking the most amazing view, You can just sit there and enjoy the presence of God. Probably the best church service I’ve ever had just sitting there at that wooden cross. If it’s the afternoon, and you have a chance to stand in the shadow of the cross, raise your hands and see that it was you hanging on that cross in the shadow. The most spiritual event that I’ve had in a long, long, long, long time.

Brittany

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bear Run Farms

If you’re looking to connect with nature your will do just that at this place. Wildlife and nature beauty at every corner. The lake was an absolute gem. Being told that they use to dig limestone out of it and that they’ve taken their cameras 40ft deep the water is soooooo blue! Absolutely recommend 10/10 camping at its finest. The natural born camper will not be disappointed.

Weekend Trip to Bear Run Farms

We had a great time camping here! The weather was a bit unpleasant - rainy, windy, and quite cold, but me and my kiddo had a good time anyway. Amber was a great host and came by after the big storm with a fresh supply of dry firewood. Highly recommended!

Weekend Trip to Bear Run Farms

We loved our stay at Bear Run Farm Amber was a great host and two li daughters we enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere in spite of the rain we really enjoyed relaxing and becoming one with nature our pet German Shepherd had wonderful time as well we would visit again very nice experience over looking the the limestone pond upon the deck was beautiful thanks Amber and the girls

Weekend Trip to Cheat View Outpost

Tommy was a phenomenal host! He was friendly, communicative, and accommodating. Our goal was to get away from people for the weekend, and this site did not disappoint. We have a 31 foot rv. The site was a little slanted, but we were able to adjust easily. The tent sites are private and scenic. We’re already planning a return with friends.

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

We had the most peaceful stay here. The campsite is big and away from all the other sites. The port a John’s are very clean. The hosts are so friendly and fun to chat with. I love how off the grid the place is too. Was nice to be forced to be off our phones and just enjoy nature. While it was off the grid, it was still just a relatively short drive to state parks and several hiking trails. A definite place to stay for primitive camping.

Weekend Trip to Camp Holly

Had a great time tent camping at Camp Holly! Nice and cozy campground, Xavier was a very accommodating host. Also, the bath house was very well kept. Didn't get a chance to fish this time but the pond is clean and well stocked. Saw quite a few people catching fish consistently. Definitely will be back for another long weekend getaway!!

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

Great property! All amenities as promised. Susan is very friendly and helpful

Weekend Trip to Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp

This is our third time here, we love it! Brought a couple of friends with us too and they loved it as well! Exceptional Service, very friendly staff and will be back for sure!

Weekend Trip to Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp

We had an amazing experience in this camp site. Our site has a very nice view of the lake and overview of the mountain. The camp hosts were very accommodating and friendly. They are always willing to help at all times. They’ve got a very fair price for everything. I would recommend them to any campers, either tent or cabin.

Weekend Trip to Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

This a campsite and more! They provided everything you could think of their hospitality is wonderful! The owner provided a cool tour of the property with his 4x4, it was a blast. The campsite was quite and will visit again! Thank you!

Weekend Trip to Compound Campgound

Not only wash the property breath taking, spacious, and felt very secure/safe bringing my toddler nephew along, Terry made recommended another site closer to the restroom that was more accommodating to a toddler since Site 1 was much farther. The new site was also very spacious and had a gorgeous view over one of the lakes. We did have neighbors during our stay, but the sites are spaced out nicely with clear boundaries. Upon arrival, Terry help navigate us to the site, gave us a helpful debriefing of the property, with his recommendations where to explore, and was very transparent of other campers. Typically being a solo camper, I felt very at easy bringing kids and would definitely book here again!

Weekend Trip to Compound Campgound

Great campsite and wonderful scenery. We will definitely be back.

Weekend Trip to Compound Campgound

I loved the view and the space it had! We had a great time and look forward to returning!

Weekend Trip to Bluestone Camp & Retreat

We had such a great time at this beautiful property! Highly recommend

Weekend Trip to Bluestone Camp & Retreat

Our camping experience was so much better than we expected! The land was beautiful, so much room for our toddler to run and play, along with so many animals to experience. Mark and Cheryl were so nice and helpful to everyone in our party. Would 100% recommend and we will definitely be back!

12 top lakeside campgrounds in West Virginia

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Bear Run Farms

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Mount Storm, WV

We recently received a 2024 GLAMPY Award and we're ranked 3rd Best camping and glamping destination in the USA!! Our property features a pristine private blue water lake with a glamping cabin available lakeside, overlooking the water as well as many forested and lakeside tent and RV sites available as well. There is an abundance of local hiking trails, some with waterfalls, scenic train rides, 3 large lakes within 40 min for boating and fishing, horseback riding nearby, or just take in the relaxing natural beauty of our sites and immerse yourself in nature! Farm fresh eggs available! Fresh linens and towels provided in cabins!

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Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp

68 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Capon Bridge, WV

Located in the foothills of the Potomac Highlands, Buffalo Gap is a 1950s era former Mountain Kids Camp turned Retreat by a group of individuals who had a vision of creating a space where family and friends can enjoy a relaxing mountain get-away. Situated between two mountains -- Sandy Ridge and Slane's Knob -- Buffalo Gap sits in the gap between the two. Consequently, the 70 acre property is teaming with creeks and streams, along with a 1.5 acre spring fed lake, making it a peaceful and beautiful retreat from the daily stresses of life. Rent a cabin, camp, have a wedding or family reunion, enjoy our lakeview café, swim, hike, kayak, canoe, and so much more. With the nearby town of Capon Bridge just 10 minutes away and the Shenandoah Valley city of Winchester just 35 minutes, so much beauty and convenience with our riverside town and nearby bigger city for additional dining and entertainment as well as conveniences.

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Compound Campgound

4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Kearneysville, WV

Once an active limestone quarry. Hollowed out for accessibility and stone extraction. #CompoundHistoricNaturePreserve #CompoundCampGrounds 10 miles from historic Harper's Ferry and Antietam Battlefield. Close to Hollywood casinoes and horseracing a few minutes to hiking and biking trails. Just a few minutes drive to cherry, apple, and peach orchards. RV's welcome...we have no hookups.

Casa Aguilar

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Capon Bridge, WV

Begin your glamping adventure in this warm, cozy cabin in the West Virginia mountains of Capon Bridge. Rest and catch sunbeams beside the relaxing bubbling stream on the property or hike the mountain outcrops of this 3.5-acre wonderland. This private community boasts a fully-stocked bass fishing lake in addition to a beautiful swimming beach. Bring the kayak, fishing rods, or just your hiking boots to take full advantage of this sustainable property 2.5hrs to DC, 1hr to Winchester, VA.

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Bluestone Camp & Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents480 acres · Hinton, WV

Bluestone Camp & Retreat is a Presbyterian Summer Camp Program with organized summer youth and family camp activities over 4 weeks in June and July, and a three-season Retreat Destination for a variety of church, non-profit, and family groups April through November. We are a ministry of the Presbytery of West Virginia (PCUSA) serving member congregations as well as many other church and non-profit organizations. Bluestone has been in operation since 1953. Our Mission is to provide experiences that are character building in nature through Summer Camping Programs and other programmatic events for children, youth, and adults; and to provide opportunities for recreation, rest, and renewal through the use of our facilities as a Center of Christian Hospitality. We have five camp sites that overlook the Bluestone Lake Reservoir. Each is a clearly defined 60' x 20' space along one side of a level grass field, and each is equipped with a 50/30/20 amp electric pedestal, water spigot, sewer drop, picnic table, and an above ground steel campfire pit. There is also a shower house available for Hipcampers to use. We have two price points: 1. Our Regular Price per night is $35 based on double occupancy. Each additional person (ages 12 and older, max = 6 people per site) is $10. 2. Our price increases to $50 per night for the months of June and July which is our high season. Each additional person (ages 12 and older, max = 6 people per site) is $10. Youth and Children ages 11 and younger are free, so keep that in mind when you select the number of guests in your party!

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Cheat View Outpost

2 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Masontown, WV

On the edge of Cheat CanyonLearn more about this land:Several romote tent sites to choose from close to stream and trails Room for campers in meadow

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Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Mount Nebo, WV

Nestled in the forest above Summersville Lake lies Camp Peak + Pine -- a peaceful haven for campers, climbers, and lake folk alike. Enjoy camping under pine trees with subtle lake views. Peak + Pine provides shade and a sense of tranquility. Rest at your campsite or venture off to the crags (very close to the Meadow and the Lake) or nearby hiking trails. We are just minutes from Battle Run Boat Launch, Gauley River put-in, and beautiful views at the Summersville Dam. Drive just a mere 5 minutes and explore or picnic at Carnifex Ferry State Park -- they have the best panoramic river view! Check out Ample Pizza and Freefolk Brewery -- just a quick 12 minute drive -- and halfway to the National Park! We are a quick trip to the New River Gorge National Park (about 15 miles) and just a twenty minute drive from downtown Fayetteville (most importantly -- Rangefinder coffee, Rosa's Speakeasy Bar and Garden, and Wood Iron Cafe). Explore Fayette Station where you can find a river front beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails. We offer the perfect spot to relax with your friends or family. Pups are totally welcome -- they must be leashed. Please note that the steep sloping hill behind camp that goes down to the lake is NOT our property but the Army Corps. Please see our link to Army Corps / Summersville Lake rules and regulations. This campsite is adjacent to our home and our neighbor's a-frame! We are mindful of camper's privacy so we do not use that backside of our home while we have campers. You have full access to "The Peak + Pine Loop" which begins at the top of the shared driveway / porta-potty to the entire forest campsite area to the amenity station. When entering and exiting the property you may find us gardening or sitting on our front porch watching the sunset. Need something? Shoot us a message and we are happy to try to accommodate. We are happy to offer recommendations for trails, put-ins, climbing crags, boat rentals, restaurants, shops, etc. Whether you're here to climb, paddle, hike, or simply unwind, Peak + Pine is your cozy basecamp in the woods. Just minutes from the magic of Summersville Lake, this place holds something special — and we’re so excited to share it with you.

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Camp Holly

63 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Addison (Webster Springs), WV

Join the fun at our 22-acre campground. We offer cabins, full-service RV sites, and back-country camping nestled in the heart of the West Virginia mountains at the confluence of the Holly River and Grassy Creek overlooking our stocked three-acre fishing pond. Conveniently located near the best outdoor recreation in Appalachia: Fishing, boating, hunting, hiking, trail riding, and climbing. Festivals and beautiful day trips on winding roads abound. Music lovers enjoy music on our pondside stage, or you can rent it for your own special event. Find an entertainment schedule and a list of amenities on our website. Kids will love our goats, chickens, ducks, paddle boats, and recreation area with a climbing dome. Visit our camp store for onsite bait + tackle, a specialty hotdog, or WV souvenir. Come relax and enjoy Camp Holly! ****Please note that in winter months the property is subject to freezing during very cold weather. This may effect water availability in the cabins and bathhouse.

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Gesundheit! Institute - Patch Adams

7 sites · RVs, Tents320 acres · Hillsboro, WV

Gesundheit! resides on a 320-acre pristine tract of farm + mountain land in rural West Virginia with gardens, meadows, creeks, waterfalls, a lake, clean air + water. We have more than two miles of trails through a beautiful hardwood forest ensuring your stay will be spent in close proximity to nature. Campsites are equipped with fire rings, access to clean drinking water, an outdoor shower + a composting toilet just a short walk from the sites. We offer fishing, canoeing, hiking, guided hikes, plant + mushroom walks, guided tours of the Gesundheit property, buildings, plus much more. We also grow many seasonal vegetables that are available for purchase during your stay. Ask us about availability when booking! The Gesundheit! Institute was founded by Patch Adams, M.D. + continues to function as a nonprofit focused on community health initiatives. We host many educational workshops throughout the year so make sure you check out upcoming events on our website at patchadams.org ! The beautiful Greenbrier River (the location of our favorite swimming hole) is a 5 minute drive down Locust Creek Rd + a 2 minute drive to the historic Locust Creek covered bridge. The small town of Hillsboro (birthplace of Nobel Prize winning author Pearl S. Buck) is 5 miles away with a restaurant (The Hillsboro Public House) + two gas stations. We are surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest with many state parks available less than a 15 minute drive from the property. There are many remarkable places to see while you're visiting; Cranberry Wilderness area, Watoga State Park, Bear Town State Park, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, the Highland Scenic Highway + a little further North up 219 is Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort; a favorite for skiing + snowboarding, mountain biking, music (4848 Festival) + many other outdoor activities!

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Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

10 sites · RVs, Tents129 acres · Summersville, WV

What says agritourism more than a primitive campground on a sheep farm in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia? Here you’re only a short drive from the New River Gorge National Park where you can go whitewater rafting or take a hike and experience the stunning beauty of the gorge, swim or paddleboard in Summersville Lake or go rock climbing on one of around 150 routes on the crags of the lake. In addition, you’ll be within walking distance of the Gauley River with all it’s wild untamed beauty where you can kayak, swim, fish, paddleboard, or splash in a waterfall. Not to mention being on a sheep farm, you can have the opportunity to learn about wool and wool processing. You can even learn how to felt wool and take home your creation! The Tawney Farm is a small-scale wool sheep farm adjacent to the beautiful Gauley River National Recreation Area and just a short drive to the New River Gorge National Park. Our farm lies nestled in between two beautiful mountains, one of them named Panther Mountain, in the Gauley River gorge. Here we raise Merino and Jacob sheep for wool where we process the fiber and either sell it to other fiber artists or felt it into crafts and hats ourselves. Our farm is also home to a miniature horse, chickens, and of course dogs and cats. In addition to the NRG and Summersville Lake and Dam, also close by are Carnifex Ferry Battleground State Park where you can see where a crucial civil war battle took place, as well as Babcock State Park with its iconic grist mill and waterfall. Our region has it all! But why stay in an overcrowded, commercial campground? Leave the beaten path and enjoy peaceful and private, safe and secure primitive camping on our mountain farm. We provide 7 sites on our farm for every camping style, from dry RV to tent, each with a table, fire pit and grill. All sites are spaciously separate from one another for privacy and perfect for couples who want to get away from it all, or for families or groups of friends who want to reconnect and catch up. Get away from it all! Experience the wilderness and wonder of West Virginia as only a native West Virginian could. Fry up some farm fresh eggs over the campfire or grill. Park-style grills, fire pit grills and tables are provided for your use. Very affordable firewood is available. And to make your "roughing it" camping experience not so rough, we've added a few amenities! Clean portajohns are provided as well as a common area with a dishwashing station and a "to die for" outdoor hot water shower (above-freezing temperatures permitting)! Green and lush in the summer and brilliant hues of red, gold and orange in the fall. Come see what the mountain lakes region of West Virginia has to offer at the Tawney Farm.

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Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

4 sites · Tents50 acres · Catlettsburg, KY

**FOR THE MONTHS OF MAY AND JUNE 2025, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR "NEW HOST" 20% DISCOUNT - USE CODE KAB92FTE ** **ALL SITES ARE ACCESSIBLE BY 4WD OR MODERATE UPHILL HIKE ONLY** Located in Boyd County, Ky (less than two miles from US 23), our 50 acres are on a one-lane, dead end road which makes for a peaceful, quiet night’s sleep under the stars and amongst the trees. Our sites are completely primitive (no running water, no electricity, no sewer) hike-in or 4WD accessible only, in several locations on the hills behind our residence. Potable water (2.6 gallons in a jug with spout) and portable toilet in privacy tent provided. (Privacy tent can also double as a shower if you have a portable shower system) *We will take you to your site with our side-by-side if needed* All sites are ideal for tent campers, overlanding-style rigs, or possibly a small, off- road trailer/camper, with fire ring and firewood provided at each site. You will have access to all trails (for hiking only) and shared access to the fishing pond (Catch and Release only at this time). There are plenty of trees for shade, hammocks, etc. There is also an abundance of wildlife: Birds, deer, turkeys, rabbits, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, and even an occasional black bear. Large firepit at pond for socializing, if desired (Quiet time from 10pm to 8am as a courtesy to other campers). We are pet friendly as well as off-leash friendly (on leash on trails or pond area if not friendly). *We do have two off-leash dogs on our property as well* Whether you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a few days or just looking for a safe, quiet place to spend the night on your way to your next destination, we hope you'll choose to spend it with us at Hideaway Hills!

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W.T. Farm?

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Union, WV

What makes W.T. Farm special is the diversity of textures of the landscape. We have great mountain top views, as well as, a deep holler with cliffs, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls. The fields are full of fruit and nut trees and there are 5 ponds. Each of these supports its own flora and fauna. I acquired stewardship of this land 35 years ago and have developed perennial orchards wherever possible. I started with pears and have branched out into pawpaws, apples, persimmons, currants, black walnuts etc. and I boast that I planted the first commercial hickory oil orchard in the world. I am an eccentric horticulturalist and graft cultivar varieties onto existing trees like oaks, hickories, black walnuts, and even the maligned invasive honeysuckle, autumn olive and multiflora rose. Just last year I bought an adjoining farm that opened up 50 acres of more orchard planting. It is on top of the mountain and offers an expansive view of the valley and ridge system that defines our region. Funny thing is that because the land between the old farm and the new farm is divided by cliffs in the holler the only way to get from one to the other is a 12 minute drive or vigorous hiking. On this new land is a historic log cabin I am renovating that is said to be one of the original settler's cabin on the mountain. Because of the amount of tree fruit I grow and the varied landscape, there is a rich diversity of birds and animals to be seen. One of my favorite walks is along the cliffs to the top waterfall where there is a sweet wading pool. I have also built a number of ponds and four of them are quite swimmable. One has a dock and is where we spend much summer time refreshing and frolicking. The farm is also a small (very small) licensed farm winery and we make and sell traditional hard cider from our apples and pears. Our cider can be purchased along with our nut oils and flours and other farm produce you may not be familiar with. We live to eat. Coming here is a gastronomical adventure! I run the Acornucopia project from here and from it we are developing a foragers network that would very much suit the lifestyle of hipcampers. We pay foragers for wild nuts they gather. Also often there is an opportunity to work on the farm harvesting and processing food. Let me know if that is something you would like to do. Treely Yours, Bill

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hillsboro, West Virginia

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Coopers Rock State Forest

Cheat Lake, West Virginia

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Babcock State Park

Thurmond, West Virginia

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Moncove Lake State Park

Union, West Virginia

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George Washington National Forest

Hinton, West Virginia

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North Bend State Park

Cairo, West Virginia

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Little Beaver State Park

Daniels, West Virginia

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Plum Orchard Lake WMA

Scarbro, West Virginia

Other options in West Virginia

Gary's Family Campground

46 sites1 acre · Great Cacapon, WV

Gary's Family Campground stands out as a hidden gem in the breathtaking Wild and Wonderful Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Nestled in the serene Sideling Hill, this campground is flanked by the picturesque Cacapon Rivers, offering a tranquil escape just a two-hour drive from Baltimore and Washington, DC. Guests can explore nearby Colonial and Civil War historical sites, and the charming town of Berkeley Springs, known as the "Nation's First Spa," is only minutes away. The scenic WV-9 winds through the majestic West Virginia mountains, enhancing your travel experience. Whether you prefer RV camping or pitching a tent, our campground is pet-friendly and equipped to accommodate all types of campers. We offer a variety of facilities, including a cozy cottage, a guest house, and two rustic cabins. With over 35 campsites available, each site features water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Our RV sites provide both 30 amp and 50 amp options, and easy access is ensured with a spacious 20-foot wide circular driveway. At the Lodge, guests can enjoy a Game Room complete with pool tables, a small soda machine, and a camp store. The lounge area is climate-controlled and features a 50" Satellite TV for your entertainment. A newly added

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in West Virginia guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near a lake in West Virginia, we've got you covered. With over 180 available options, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp (167 reviews), Coon Creek Cove (61 reviews), and Cheat View Outpost (51 reviews). Prices range from as low as $10 to an average of $40 per night. And don't worry, popular amenities like potable water, trash, and toilets are available at many of our campsites. Plus, you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, swimming, and hiking during your stay. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in West Virginia!