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Seneca State Forest

The best camping in Seneca State Forest, WV

100% (4)

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Stories from the community

Justin

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Ultimate private camping

Incredible property with incredible views. So quiet and peaceful. Will definitely be back!!

Arin

1 week ago

19 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

I have nothing but wondeful things to say about this campground. It was clean, beautiful, accomodating and friendly. There was plenty of turn around space to maneuver our camper. The dumping station was well kept and easy to pull up to. The creek was beautiful along the back of the campground and we had wonderful conversations with the host and he was very inviting. There is a train that runs on the other side of the creek which we found to be exciting to watch and it was quiet so it did not wake us up. There is an enclosed dog walking area which was nice for our dogs. We will definitley be back.

Kimberly

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

We loved tent camping at Swedish Lilac. The babbling river, the sounds of the trains (not too loud and we loved it), and Fritz, the host, made our time memorable. The bathrooms were very clean and convenient. We will definitely be back!!

Terry

2 weeks ago

24 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mountains,Woods,Ponds, Natural

Beautiful place with great views of the farm fields and mountains beyond. We were there on a terribly windy late Fall day (we were right at the top of the mountain) so we are looking forward to coming back in the Spring when we can enjoy being outside more and roaming the farm.

Jeffrey

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

The good: Friendly, helpful staff, pleasant out-of-the-way valley with a small river running along the edge of the campground. Convenient to Lexington and Fairfield and Buena Vista. Bathrooms are clean. Free firewood was offered during our stay. The not as good: No on site waste hookup, and the dump station is on the wrong side of the driveway. There is a train track just on the other side of the river that has freight trains at 2am, 4am, and 10am (at least during our stay). Some sites are awkwardly arranged. Bathrooms are not heated. Overall: Don't let the negatives discourage you from staying here, I mentioned them only so you will not be surprised. It is a peaceful campground despite the occasional freight train. Well away from major roads and light pollution, with a very friendly staff who make sure you get there by the best route and guide you to your site. Stayed during winter, two nights were below freezing, so occupancy was very low. I believe they have activities during the summer months.

Lauren

2 weeks ago

30 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Green Acres

This is a really neat site located on the Cowpasture River. The camp host is very nice and accommodating!

Conan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Lazy River Farm

Had a great time at this beautiful property. Stayed at Camp Site 2 and had plenty of space. Will definitely stay again in the future.

Austin

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Camping at Lazy River Farm

Great camping spot at Site 1, it over looks the valley behind the property is gorgeous to wake up to. As the description says, you definitely need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to get up the hill. It takes someone spotting, but you can navigate through the trees to get your vehicle directly at the site. We arrived in the evening and in the dark it was a challenge. There is a portapotty/outhouse as far as amenities, but no running water at the site. Bring water with you to avoid a long walk. I would absolutely come back and stay again!

Shane

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Ultimate private camping

Amazing every time we camp here! Will definitely continue coming back!

Seth

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Lazy River Farm

Caroline was a wonderful and responsive host, and her farm was a peaceful and idyllic stay. If you stay here, you're guaranteed a fulfilling trip.

David R

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

We arrived a little late and had requested a late checkin when booking. Fritz was great! He communicated promptly and was there to walk us to our site, even offering to bring us firewood. Restrooms were clean.

Levi

November 2025

40 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to Green Acres

Beautiful and quiet spot on the water. Pearl was very sweet and helpful. Would definitely stay here again.

John

November 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

We enjoyed our stay and plan to return. Listening to the river and campfire was quite pleasant. The occasional train passing by is very similar to camping at James River SP and Powhatan SP. The views of the night sky are spectacular. Valerie and Fritz were wonderful hosts!

Clay

November 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

A hidden gem. Beautiful area. It's a clean and simple, no-frills campground. The hosts are personable and welcoming. The only negative is that the dump station is on the wrong side of the road when exiting the campground and pitched slightly downhill once you do get situated to dump. Bigger rigs will have some difficulty getting turned around and positioned properly. I loved the place - the minimal amenities and smaller campground fit our camping style perfectly.

Elaine

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

The sites were spacious and the firewood was abundant. Our site was next to the river, which added to the experience with ambient water sounds. The bath house was very clean, but it is good to note that that they are not heated if you are camping in cooler weather. The hosts were very friendly and we would definitely camp there again to explore more of the area.

Patricia

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fourth Moon Camp

We loved camping on Wade’s Spearmint Patch! There was so much to explore in the surrounding area and we truly felt at peace. We didn’t know how much we needed the chance to completely disconnect and slow down. Seneca Rocks was incredible and we hope to be back!

Shannon

October 2025

4 nights at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Beautiful and peaceful. It was a perfect getaway.

Leslie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Sweetwater Farm Trail Center

Beautiful and peaceful, with very nice bathrooms, and shower.

Andy

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater Farm Trail Center

I had a great time camping in the pasture, the night sky was so open and clear and full of stars. I appreciated that you can see the Community Center from any of the campgrounds so you can make your way there to use the toilets and showers.

Todd

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Spent three nights here at spot 11. Loved it. Very spacious spot with a large grass field beside it that leads to a picnic and ping pong table covered area. There's a road on one side of the campground but that didn't bother us too much. Beyond the creek on the other side are some railroad tracks that, again, didn't really bother us. The bathrooms were clean and the showers were hot. They offer free WiFi that works throughout the campground and free firewood, never seen that before. Owners were friendly and attentive. We will be back!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Seneca State Forest

100%

(4)

Seneca Campground

10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Seneca State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Ultimate private camping

99%

(97)

21mi from Seneca State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hot Springs, VA

Property description: Since Hipcamp called to clarify... we are indeed offering the entire property to only one group at a time. You read that right you can camp anywhere on the property, move around, and feel free to stay multiple nights. This 235.51 acre property has all of the most sought-after characteristics: close to the amenities of Hot Springs and The Homestead resort, total privacy and protection, beautiful trout stream, direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails on the adjoining 3000 acres of National Forest, and a 60-mile sunset view. It offers over 1,000 ft of vertical gain. The property includes a half mile of Cowardin Run. With generally mild winter weather, the property is perfect to experience the magic of the Allegheny Mountains. We offer the same low light level as the International Dark Sky Park in Millboro for excellent astronomy and night-sky viewing. *Note: During business hours construction ongoing at the center of the property as we build a home. *Note: During business hours Environmental Specialist, VDOF or USDA may visit to check in on the forest/structures/habitat. *Note: Game trail cameras in use - they are not hidden and are not for the purpose of video surveillance

Fourth Moon Camp

100%

(52)

47mi from Seneca State Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Seneca Rocks, WV

Fourth Moon Camp is uniquely located on private land located "behind" Seneca Rocks. We primarily offer tent/vehicle camping, private trails, group campsites, and "treenet" experiences; all with a much more private environment than a standard campground! You can message us ahead of time if you'd like to set up a private, guided experience, such as a hike, workshop, or adventure.

Private A-frame on the Hill

100%

(7)

49mi from Seneca State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Buchanan, VA

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, our A-frame “Triangle House” sits on 2 private, wooded acres—perfect for a peaceful getaway under the stars. While the house itself isn’t available for overnight stays, Hipcampers are welcome to pitch a tent anywhere on the property’s grassy clearings or car camp in the driveway. Wake up to mountain air, sip your coffee on the spacious porch with mountain views, and wind down at night around the outdoor fire pit—ideal for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and stargazing. Good to know: The driveway is steep and gravel, so please plan accordingly—longer camper vans may have difficulty getting up the hill. If you’re looking for a quiet mountain escape with plenty of fresh air, open sky, and cozy camp vibes, this spot is for you!

Robin Road Farm

83%

(3)

44mi from Seneca State Forest · 32 sites · Tents · Quinwood, WV

Camping available to all. Create your own site in the woods. Rough roads and terrain; a truck is highly recommended for easy access. We are also seeking long-term campers interested in joining our newly forming off-grid community. Follow Robin Road Farm on Facebook or book a Hipcamp stay to learn more. This property is located 1 mile from Hominy Falls, 15 miles from Summersville Lake and the Gauley River, 25 miles from the New River Gorge, 30 miles from Beauty Mountain and Hawk's Nest State Park. 70 miles from Snowshoe Ski Resort. It sits on the edge of the Monongahela National Forest.

Sweetwater Farm Trail Center

100%

(15)

30mi from Seneca State Forest · 130 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sugar Grove, WV

With multiple campsites, car camping, and remote primitive sites, there are plenty of options for your next adventure. Located on 600 acres, we have developed the previously used agriculture land into a trail center in hopes of transforming the property from an underutilized farm into a facility that could support local outdoor recreation use and programming. Currently there are 14 miles of purpose built trails, with plans to install up to 30 miles of natural surface trails that will create access to and feature the natural beauty of the property, which includes open meadows, mature hardwood forests, rock outcroppings, an area of volcanic activity, seven freshwater springs, headwater streams (including Brook Trout habitat), and three distinct knobs. These features provide a rich and unique landscape for a trail system. With so much here, there is no need to leave the property. But if you’d like, we are sandwiched between the Monongahela and George Washington National Forests. An outdoor enthusiasts dream.

Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

99%

(226)

49mi from Seneca State Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Vesuvius, VA

With 15 campsites, business class WIFI, over 1,000 feet of river frontage, Swedish Lilac Campground is the perfect getaway to reconnect with nature and relax with loved ones. Campsites accommodate RVs and tents with access to bath house, pavilion, dump station, and picnic areas, and is only a 20-minute drive to beautiful historic Lexington Virginia. Hiking, fishing, swimming, dining, and shopping a short distance away which means there is something for everyone at Swedish Lilac Campground. Enjoy being next to the river with the sound and energy of the rushing water. Beyond the river is the railroad track. The train runs sporadically throughout the day and night which adds a rhythmic clatter of times past. Some campers are annoyed while others view this as a plus while others don't even notice the noise from the trains. The riverside sites have a 4 to 6 foot drop to the river which may not be suitable for small children. Remote workers welcome! Fiber optic internet with Wi-Fi access points that cover the entire campground.

Beaverdam Falls

98%

(119)

48mi from Seneca State Forest · 4 sites · Lodging · Covington, VA

Nestled on a private 65-acre farm in the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia, Beaverdam Falls is located on VA SR-311 (Kanawha Trail) in the Sweet Springs Valley. Nestled in the old community of Earlehurst, between Covington & Roanoke, Beaverdam Falls are an historic series of waterfalls on private property. The Falls are at the headwaters of Dunlap Creek and are the terminus for the Sweet Springs. Available for guest stays & recreation, are the Upper Falls portion. Surrounded by the verdant George Washington National Forest, the Upper Falls, displays a constant waterfall of around 40-feet in height, & decorates the final mile stretch of the Sweet Springs, both on our property. Additional beautiful cascades pepper our tract of Beaverdam Falls as well. This private tract of unparalleled Virginia countryside will simply astonish your expectations. As the source of the Falls, Sweet Springs Creek, serves as a long, unique home for trout, calcified travertine rock, chalybeate water, and ancient beaver dams (as well as active ones!). Beaverdam Falls is a rare place for the lack of stone and the centuries of beavers who have left their trace in & on our creek—and swamp, the Stick Marsh, which has an active beaver dam. Be careful! They do bite!

Snowshoe Valley Farms & Camping

95%

(29)

9mi from Seneca State Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Slatyfork, WV

Close to Snowshoe Mountain, at only 1 mile drive from the entrance to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. This is a great spot for mountain bikers and river lovers. So close to snowshoe and affordable makes this an easy decision. Also the wildlife, flowers, and river on the property make this a truly powerful place. There is some traffic and noise from the road but it quiets down through the night and all you can hear is the trickle of the stream. We have a lovely 20 acre are that has easy to pull up to camp sites and some that take a short walk but are able to camp right near the river bed. We offer camping for all ranges of groups and travelers. We have campsites for tents, cars and vans, big RV's and Trailers, and then group sized sites. Please contact us and we can accommodate you in any size or style. We have cheap options for the solo and travelers on budgets and we have some nice options to get furnished tents and private fireplaces, with private river views and beach/play areas. Contact us with any questions or comments. You can google us anytime and Snowshoe Valley Camping.

Camping at Lazy River Farm

94%

(160)

39mi from Seneca State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Iron Gate, VA

Learn more about this land: Lazy River Farm has so much to offer. Tents sites are in a wooded setting, on a beautiful hill, spread out for privacy. Not at the river. Camp sites also have fire rings with wood available for you to use. Campers are welcome to use any wood that's on the ground near or around your site. Camp sites can be accessed with a high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle or walk up the hill to your site. With easy access down to the river, by walking or driving, you can cool off in the beautiful Cow Pasture River. Glamping in the Vardo Wagon is another option, with its close proximity to the river and cozy interior. The Gypsy Rose sleeps 2, but can sleep 2 additional guests with a tent. Paddle boards and kayaks are available for free if you paddling near the farm. (Life jackets are limited but are required, so if you have one bring it) drop in a line to fish, or simply sit by the river and listen to the soft rapids. Lazy River Farm is a working farm, with lovely Scottish Highland Cattle, pigs, chickens, horses and livestock guardian dogs.. Your welcome to come and pet the animals. Do not feed animals. Do not go into fields or stalls with any of them. Nearby there are vineyards and breweries, the beautiful historic Masonic Theater, C&O heritage center, miles of back roads to explore, as well as local restaurants. Contact us directly for a full range of what we have to offer, or have questions regarding any site.

Beaver Lakes Campground LLC.

95%

(156)

42mi from Seneca State Forest · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Calvin, WV

Property was owned by my great grandfather , He lost 150 acres in the early 1900's due to a bad debt from neighboring landowner. Was so happy to be able to repurchase the 150 acres back in 2016,now own the original land tract and added more. 250 acres in total. Portions were strip mined around 1978-1982 creating some flat fields and access to all property. I might add that strip mining if done properly can and does enhance the property. Ponds were built to catch runoff and several new animal species moved in waterfowl ,muskrats, and beavers. The beavers have constructed large dams on property further adding to the beauty. Have seen several bald eagles on and around the property.

Camping at Oak Grove

100%

(20)

41mi from Seneca State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lexington, VA

🌲 Welcome to Your Private Getaway! 🌲 Discover Our Hidden Gem: A Private Campsite on 11 Acres! Escape to our peaceful campground, featuring an easily accessible grassy clearing surrounded by year-round beauty and stunning mountain views. Just minutes from downtown Lexington and I-64, our site is the perfect base for adventure! ✨ Why Choose Us? Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy serene surroundings and gorgeous mountain views. Convenient Location: Close to local hiking trails like Goshen Pass, Chessie Trail, and House Mountain. Explore Local Flavors: Discover Rockbridge County's wineries and brewery scene just a stone's throw away. 🏕️ Amenities: Primitive campsite for tent camping and boondocking Solo Stove for cozy evenings Picnic table for outdoor dining Firewood available for purchase at $5 a bundle 🌟 Book Your Adventure Today! Reconnect with nature and make lasting memories in our tranquil oasis. Your escape awaits!

Green Acres

97%

(44)

34mi from Seneca State Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Clifton Forge, VA

****RT 42 IS NOT CLOSED ---Google Maps is wrong**** This property has 8 sites MESSAGE US FOR DETAILS REGARDING OUR AMENITIES AND FACILITIES. Check us out on Facebook at... GREEN ACRES VA CAMPING .. We are an officially permitted and licensed, by the State of Virginia, campground. Please read individual site descriptions for specific details for the sites. Not all sites are the same. There is also info available at our facebook page. We have a Charcoal Grill (includes spatula, tongs and turning fork) available to rent for $10 (fee is for entire length of stay). Come camp on the peaceful banks of the Cowpasture river. This is a great place to come to get away from the noise and just relax. The river depth along the property ranges from a few inches to 6ft. Most sites offer partial shade. Open field area for playing games. Large communal fire pit beside the river. We also have a communal Shelter that has two booth style tables under it. Nearby places of interest including Falling Springs waterfall, Humpback Bridge, Lake Moomaw, Douthat State Park...all within less than an hours drive. Only a few minutes from the closest town, incase you need food, supplies, fuel, etc. Please note that not all cellular providers have service at this location. I know that Verizon does. Pack trash out with you.

The best camping in Seneca State Forest, WV guide

Overview

About

There’s plenty of old growth and good ‘ol times at Seneca, West Virginia’s oldest state forest. If your relationship with Mother Nature is best 1-on-1, Seneca is the place for you. Very little development, pioneer guest cabins, 11,684 acres of dense, quiet forest, and plenty of hiking trails make this forest the most beautiful place to recharge in peace. Bring a friend or two for bass and bluegill fishing on the lake, or canoe to the middle and marvel at the tall variety of trees that line the shore. Seneca is simply stunning, emphasis on the simple, and it serves as one of the most relaxing places to camp in all of West Virginia. The most popular activity is just sitting back and enjoying nature, but if your adrenaline levels just can’t handle that sort of relaxation, jump on a bike to enjoy the 40 miles of road and forest trail.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Seneca State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the forest is alive with color. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter can be magical with snow-covered trees, though some activities may be limited. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your visit accordingly.
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure your safety.
Bring sufficient water and snacks, as facilities may be limited.
Respect wildlife habitats and observe from a distance without disturbing the creatures.

100%

4 ratings · 1 review

July 2018

Seneca Campground

We stayed with friends in the campground at Seneca State Forest -- it was one of the best most peaceful campsites we've ever stayed in for more than a decade. The 10 campsites were well spaced. We had a lot of privacy because nobody else was camping there at the time, but there would have been plenty of distance if we'd had neighbors. The tent site was level and there were trees for hammocks (wide straps, of course). There was a sump area for doing dishes and dumping dishwater (strained, of course). The on-site bathroom was a concrete pit toilet, but at the ranger station there are two clean, private shower/bathrooms that were free for campers. No cell service as it's in the Green Bank Quiet Zone.

Grace A.

2 reviews