Lake Camping Near Charleston, West Virginia, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Charleston, West Virginia, with a preference for a beautiful lake, you're in luck. We have over 180 available options that fit your criteria. Whether you're a fan of swimming or fishing, our campsites near Charleston, West Virginia, with lake views are sure to satisfy your outdoor cravings. Check out some of our top campsites like The Country, LLC (101 reviews), My Spot - Private Camping (60 reviews), and Coon Creek Cove (61 reviews) for a truly memorable stay. With popular amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and campfires, and activities such as wildlife watching, climbing, and hiking, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Charleston

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Charleston, West Virginia, with a preference for a beautiful lake, you're in luck. We have over 180 available options that fit your criteria. Whether you're a fan of swimming or fishing, our campsites near Charleston, West Virginia, with lake views are sure to satisfy your outdoor cravings. Check out some of our top campsites like The Country, LLC (101 reviews), My Spot - Private Camping (60 reviews), and Coon Creek Cove (61 reviews) for a truly memorable stay. With popular amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and campfires, and activities such as wildlife watching, climbing, and hiking, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Charleston

1. Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

99%

(151)

35mi from Charleston · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Our farm is also home to a miniature horse and chickens. 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. 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. 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)!

2. Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

100%

(11)

42mi from Charleston · 1 site · Tent

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.

3. Bare Cove

89%

(14)

39mi from Charleston · 70 sites · Tents, RVs

Bare Cove is a recreation lake with campsites. However, we are not your typical camp ground. We have no quiet hours, we do get loud and have a great time on the weekends. It’s not uncommon for beer pong or card games to go into the early hours. We are open to all ages and backgrounds, anybody that enjoys making friends and having fun on the lake. All guests must sign personal injury waivers to cover our 6. So about the property, it’s 120+ acres with a 5 acre man made lake that features blue waters, a beach area and tikibar. We have atv trails, private camp sites and group sites. Enjoy the day floating in the clear blue water, fishing (separate pond) or hiking. Our lake also features a launch pillow for blasting your friends up to 20 ft in the air! We do have large float's for rent, which are great for groups. Thanks for looking, would love to host you and your party out at the lake.

4. Plum Orchard Lake WMA

100%

(1)

38 sites · Scarbro, West Virginia

Discover the natural splendor of Plum Orchard Lake WMA.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Beech Fork State Park

13%

(4)

275 sites · Lavalette, West Virginia

Discover Beech Fork State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Babcock State Park

100%

(4)

65 sites · Thurmond, West Virginia

Discover Babcock State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

7. Cabwaylingo State Forest

22 sites · Crum, West Virginia

Discover the natural splendor of Cabwaylingo State Forest.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Charleston

100%

(1)

Plum Orchard Lake Campground

35mi from Charleston · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Plum Orchard Lake WMA

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(3)

Old Orchard Campground

39mi from Charleston · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beech Fork State Park

Moxley Branch Campground

39mi from Charleston · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beech Fork State Park

Lakeview Campground

39mi from Charleston · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beech Fork State Park

Four Coves Campground

39mi from Charleston · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beech Fork State Park

100%

(2)

Glade Creek Grist Mill Cabin

44mi from Charleston · 13 sites · in Babcock State Park

100%

(2)

Babcock Campground

45mi from Charleston · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Babcock State Park

Tick Ridge Campground

47mi from Charleston · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cabwaylingo State Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Coral

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

We had a wonderful stay with a group of 9 friends! The farm is quiet, secluded, and so peaceful! It’s walking distance to the Gauley, and one of our days we spent floating in the river as the season hasn’t begun yet. The facilities were really clean, especially for portable toilets. Overall would highly recommend!!

J

Jenna

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

Susan’s spot was awesome! Very secluded, and quiet. The added amenities make this site a must when visiting the NRG and Gauley River. We will definitely be back!

B

Beccah

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

We loved this beautiful location that is so convenient to all the best of West Virginia without the crowded campgrounds. The amenity station added a level of convenience that simplifies your stay and we enjoyed total privacy with the exception of a friendly neighborhood cat 😊

T

Tommie

August 2025

Tent

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

This spot is one of the one’s that you don’t want others to know about! Don’t pick this if you enjoy privacy and good mood vibes in a camp spot. Host was very knowledgeable of the area and a joy to meet and talk with.

D

Douglas

August 2025

Tent

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

Fantastic location and fantastic hosts! Very accommodating and helpful, the perfect stop on my road trip!

Ramona

July 2025

Tent

With kids

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

Really lovely spot, very accommodating hosts who provided lots of recommendations and amenities. They were also great communicators and made us feel very at home. Gorgeous area to explore.

A

Avery

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

VERY nice area for those who prefer primitive! We LOVED our stay and will definitely be back. Great hosts, great property, great time! Just be warned, the drive to the property is not for the faint of heart-we were in a 4x4, it was fine. Our friends took a 4 door car, it wasn’t so pleasant for the car lol

C

Caleb

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

Peak + Pine was a perfect weekend get away for my Fiancé and I. Elle and Mike have a really nice property right on the lake. A perfect micro climate under the cool pines after a long day on the lake in the sun. accommodations were great. This place is a gem !

T

Taylor

July 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

This was a great space and the host was super nice. They've put a lot of thought into it. I'd definitely recommend it for a group of friends who all want to tent camp. The only thing I would cautions is for RVs or trailers. The actual camp site is more than big enough to accommodate one, that's not a problem. But the road to get to it is a windy, hilly dirt road that is barely a lane wide, despite having two way traffic. We had a relatively small travel trailer pulled behind a 4Runner and it was still very sketchy trying to navigate it to the camp site. There were a few times where we came around a corner and were almost hit by someone going way too fast for a road like that, and a couple of times that we almost fell off the road completely trying to get over far enough so someone could pass us. Maybe if you're a very experienced tower it wouldn't be an issue, but for us it was white knuckle the whole time. Just something to think about. But everything else about it was great!

W

William

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

Great location with the river and an amazing waterfall 10 min away. Amazing hosts and the lots were perfect.

Michael

June 2025

Tent

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

This stay was incredible! Elle goes above and beyond keeping the site perfect, as well as providing amenities beyond what I've usually found at hip camps. She gave us some great recommendations about the area too! 20 minutes to New River Gorge NP bridge entrance and rafting. Multiple state parks less than five min away the feature some great rock climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping. If you're concerned about being close to the building or other property, don't be. Your space is very secluded and tucked away down a hill. Our only visitor was the local neighborhood cat, and he was great company. Driveway is a little steep, but I have a little Honda Civic that is plenty low to the ground and had no issues. Will absolutely be back.

M

Michael

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

“Great stay! Really close to the lake for climbing and about a 3 minute drive to battle run for great hiking trails. Nice to get out on the water and enjoy the campsite”

R

Rachel

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Peak + Pine -- A Lakeside Nook

Peak + pine was totally lovely! I loved how close it was to lake access and Fayetteville (only about a 20-minute drive). The camp itself was well-equipped with the essentials and everything I needed — even a sweet coffee station and bug spray. As a solo traveler I felt at ease that the host’s home was nearby and Elle was eager to help with anything I needed. I will definitely be back during my stays in the area!!

P

Philip

June 2025

Tent

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

I loved the site! Had a cozy fire at night and woke up to Summersville lake shimmering through the trees. Climbing at the lake is literally minutes away which is a big plus for me. I'll definitely be back!

M

Morgan

June 2025

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.

C

Chase

June 2025

Tent

3 nights at Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

SUCH an awesome stay. Susan and James are just the best. Lovely location and amenities. The wool class was so much fun for my gf!! But please be aware, SO many bugs up by the creek!

J

Jessica

May 2025

Tent

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.

L

Lucy

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

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

S

Stefin

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tawney Farm's Wild & Woolly

Great place with amazing views. Loved how quiet and peaceful it was. Susan and James were very friendly and kind. They offered us a site right next to the pavilion due to the rainy weather. Even though the weather wasn't great during our stay we had a cozy and peaceful time. Was great seeing the sheep and meeting little Peanut the pony.I'm looking forward to a future visit and seeing the nearby Gualey river again.