Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have toilets?

Yes — toilets are available at every site at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary.

Is drinking water available at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Potable water is available at 5 of 6 sites at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. The kitchenette sink is great for filling water bottles. You'll also find taps located throughout the lodge's common areas and an outdoor spigot on the exterior of the lodge.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have showers?

Yes — showers are available at every site at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Two full bathrooms with seated shower stalls. Towels are provided.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have picnic tables?

Yes — picnic tables are available at every site at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have cooking equipment?

Cooking equipment is available at 5 of 6 sites at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Thank you for placing all YMC dishes in the designated dishpan in the lodge's kitchenette for staff to wash.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have a playground?

A playground is available at 5 of 6 sites at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have wifi?

Yes — wifi is available at every site at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Available at the Lodge not the Campsite. US Cellular, AT&T, and T-Mobile networks work great here. Verizon gets some service here.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have trash disposal?

Yes — trash disposal is available at every site at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Large trashcan located on covered porch. Recycling is located in the kitchenette area.

How do you get to the sites at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

2WD accessible. Moderate walk at some sites.

Are pets allowed at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Yes — Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary is pet-friendly. On leash.

Are campfires allowed at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Yes — campfires are allowed at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Always review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.

What is the check-in process at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

You'll meet and greet with your host Melanie upon arrival.

What is the cancellation policy at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Full refund 24 hours before check in time starts.

What time is check-in and check-out at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Check-in times vary by site (from 2pm). Check-out times vary by site.

How far in advance can you book, and how long can you stay at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary?

Book up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Stay up to 29 nights depending on the site.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have a hot tub?

No — no hot tub at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Sauna available for an additional fee that supports our non-profits mission.

Does Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary have laundry?

No — no laundry at Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary. Hillsboro Laundromat is located at 37 Hill Street, Hillsboro, WV

Photo 1 of 6 of Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary

View more photos of Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary

Your campsite comes with access to the lodge's kitchenette.

All 55 photos

Open in app

Yew Mountain Center 500-Acre Nature Sanctuary

Hosted by Melanie · Hillsboro, West Virginia

6 sites · RV, Tent · 500 acres

100%

4 reviews

Melanie is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Creature comforts

Enjoy the comforts of home at some sites—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.

Private sites

100% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.

The Yew Mountain Center is on a 500-acre nature sanctuary among the forests and farms of West Virginia. The property is backed up to one of the largest undeveloped areas east of the Mississippi. Its quiet, natural setting is perfect for group or solo retreats. It is created and run by the local community to be a place for learning about the rich natural and cultural heritage of this Appalachian region and to be a part of the sustainable way forward in these mountains and beyond. Under the mature canopy of our hardwood forests, in the spring-fed ponds and quick mountain streams, under the bright glow of the Milky Way, find inspiration, make connections, and breathe the renewal found in nature at its wildest. It is a place to learn, create, and recreate. Your accommodations comes with access to the YMC lodge common areas, which include a kitchenette, dining room, great room, and porch. A sauna is available. Kids will love our woods playground. Signed woodland trails. Caretakers lives onsite and care for the six-room lodge, campsites, and property. We are close to Droop Mountain State Park, Beartown State Park, the Greenbrier River Trail, Falls of Hills Creek, and The Cranberry Wilderness. Pets on leash okay. The caretakers are happy to help with any of your needs or offer local advice. Otherwise, they can keep a low profile if you are looking for some peace and solitude.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

4 sites

Cattail - Pondside Campsite YMC

100%

(3)

Tent site · Sleeps 7

Cattail is a soft, moss-covered campsite nestled on the banks of the largest pond at the 500-acre Yew Mountain Center Nature Sanctuary. Just steps away, the Red Eft Trail connects to several other paths, making this the perfect nature retreat. Amenities and Features: The pond is an ideal spot for birdwatching, while the trails offer ample opportunities for wildflower identification. The campsite comes outfitted with: • A picnic table, fire ring, with a starter set of firewood. • Access to the YMC lodge common areas. • Miles of trails featuring interpretive signs. • Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome. The camping area offers a 50 x 40 ft (15 x 12 m) space of beautiful moss-covered ground. We kindly ask that you follow Leave No Trace principles; you may dispose of your trash in the large garbage can located on the lodge's covered porch. Facilities and Connectivity: Please note that this is a primitive camping site with no electricity or hook-ups. However, modern comforts are just a short walk away: • Bathrooms: Two full bathrooms are located about 480 feet (146 m) away, next to the sauna. • Power and Wi-Fi: Open Wi-Fi is available in and around the lodge. You will also find numerous interior and exterior electric outlets at the lodge for your use. Lodge Common Areas: The lodge features a shared kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, hot water kettle, two single-burner cooktops, a toaster oven, a microwave, and a toaster. In the Great Room, you can enjoy a board game, get lost in a book, or share stories by the warmth of the large stone fireplace. Outside, guests can gather around the fire pit to play instruments or simply relax in the backyard to take in the scenic mountain views after a refreshing sauna. Firewood: To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. A starter bundle is provided; let us know if you'd like extra. Additional Accommodations: If you require more space, we offer other nearby sites: • Trillium: Located on the opposite side of the pond. • Field of Dreams: Situated past the stand of pine trees below the pond. • Fairy Diddle: A dedicated car camping site near the pond. For a more secluded experience, we also offer remote sites like Moss Point. The Yew Mountain Center is home to the WV Forest Farming Initiative and the Mountain Medicine Trail. We are proud to host programs and retreats throughout the year.

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Fields of Dreams - Campsite YMC

100%

(1)

Tent site · Sleeps 8

Overlooking the fields of the Yew Mountain Center, the Fields of Dreams Campsite is a grassy site shaded by the forest edge. Near a massive white oak tree with an interpretive sign, the site offers a direct connection to the Red Eft Trail right from your campsite. Amenities and Features: Just up the hill, the pond is an ideal spot for birdwatching, while the trails offer ample opportunities for wildflower identification. The campsite comes outfitted with: • A picnic table, fire ring, and firewood. • Access to the YMC lodge common areas. • Miles of trails featuring interpretive signs. • Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome. The camping area offers a flat 50 x 60 ft (15 x 18 m) space of beautiful grass/moss-covered ground. We kindly ask that you follow Leave No Trace principles; you may dispose of your trash in the large garbage can located on the lodge's covered porch. Facilities and Connectivity: Please note that this is a primitive camping site with no electricity or hook-ups. However, modern comforts are just a short walk away: • Bathrooms: Two full bathrooms are located about 480 feet (146 m) away, next to the sauna. • Power and Wi-Fi: Open Wi-Fi is available in and around the lodge. You will also find numerous interior and exterior electric outlets at the lodge for your use. Lodge Common Areas — The lodge features a shared kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, hot water kettle, two single-burner cooktops, a toaster oven, a microwave, and a toaster. In the Great Room, you can enjoy a board game, get lost in a book, or share stories by the warmth of the large stone fireplace. Outside, guests can gather around the fire pit to play instruments or simply relax in the backyard to take in the scenic mountain views after a refreshing sauna. Additional Accommodations: If you require more space, we offer other nearby sites: • Trillium: Located on the south side of the pond. • Cattail: Located on the north side of the pond. • Fairy Diddle: A dedicated car camping site near the pond. For a more secluded experience, we also offer remote sites like Maple Run. The Yew Mountain Center is home to the WV Forest Farming Initiative and the Mountain Medicine Trail. We are proud to host programs and retreats throughout the year, and welcome others to host their own.

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Trillium - Pondside Campsite YMC

100%

(1)

Tent site · Sleeps 7

On the banks of the Yew Mountain Center's largest pond, you'll find Trillium, a soft, grassy campsite shaded by pondside trees. With easy access to several wide trails, this is your perfect nature retreat. The pond is a great spot for birdwatching, and the trails offer opportunities for wildflower identification. This pondside campsite comes outfitted with a picnic table, and a fire ring. Firewood: To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. A starter bundle is provided; let us know if you'd like extra. You'll also have access to the YMC lodge common areas and miles of trails with interpretive signs. Leashed pets are welcome. Available kitchenette appliances: Refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, hot water kettle, single-burner cooktop, toaster oven, microwave, and toaster. Along with the kitchenette, you'll find other shared spaces inside the lodge and out. The Great Room is a great place to enjoy a board game, get lost in a book, or share stories by the warmth of the large stone fireplace. Outside, you can gather around the fire pit to play instruments, or simply relax in the backyard, taking in the scenic mountain views after a refreshing sauna. Trillium's camping area is a roughly 30x140 ft (9x43 m) space of grass. We ask that you leave no trace and keep the grass and moss as undisturbed as possible. You can place your trash in the large garbage can located on the lodge's covered porch. Price given is for a primitive camping site with no electric. There are no hook-ups at this site. Two full bathrooms are approximately 300 feet (91 m) away, next to the sauna. Wi-Fi is available at and around the lodge, with no password required. There are numerus electric outlets for use in the lodge, along with exterior outlets. If you need more camping space, another campsite called Cattail is available on the other side of the pond. A third site, Fields of Dreams, is located on the other side of the stand of pine trees below the pond. Along with our Fairydiddle Car Camping site. The Yew Mountain Center is home to the WV Forest Farming Initiative and the Mountain Medicine Trail. We host programs and retreats throughout the year.

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Maple Run - Campsite YMC

Tent site · Sleeps 4

Maple Run campsite is accessed by a short hike up Goldenrod Road and by the large pond, one of the scenic trails through the 500 acre Yew forest. This site is surrounded by the our maple tubing lines used to collect sap during sugaring time, January to March. During the summer you'll be wrapped in the forest, during the other seasons you can see the first spring tree buds or the diverse colors of autumn unfolding around you. We also accept properly outfitted campers during the winter months. Your stay helps us ensure this forest remains a sanctuary for learning, conservation, and Appalachian traditions for generations to come. Thank you for considering being part of our story! Amenities/Features: The site offers immediate access to the Woodthrush Trail, which traverses past ponds and winds around and up mountain valleys. • Size: The campsite is 60 x 40 ft (18 x 12 m) • Privacy: Other campsites are not visible from this location. • Cooking: Self-supplied camp stoves are allowed at remote sites. • Campfire Policy: Please restrict all campfires to the fire pit immediately outside the lodge. • Lodge Access: Guests have full access to the YMC lodge common areas and miles of trails featuring interpretive signs. • Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome. Firewood: To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. A starter bundle is provided; let us know if you'd like extra. Facilities/Connectivity: Please note that this is a primitive camping site with no electricity or hook-ups. However, modern comforts are just a short walk away: • Bathrooms: dual full bathhouse is located about 700 feet (213 m) away, next to the sauna. • Power/Wi-Fi: Open Wi-Fi is available in and around the lodge. You will also find numerous interior and exterior electric outlets at the lodge for your use. Lodge Common Areas: The lodge features a shared kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, hot water kettle, two single-burner cooktops, a toaster oven, a microwave, and a toaster. In the Great Room, you can enjoy a board game, get lost in a book, or share stories by the warmth of the large stone fireplace. Outside, guests can gather around the fire pit to play instruments, simply relax in the backyard to take in the scenic mountain views after a refreshing sauna.

Moderate walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

RV/tent sites

2 sites

Fairydiddle - Car Camping

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 25 ft

Fairydiddle primitive car-camping campsite is on the southside of the lodge overlooking the field and surrounded by the 500 acre Yew forest. During the summer you'll be surround by forest, during the other seasons you can see the first spring tree buds or the diverse colors of autumn unfolding around you. We also accept properly outfitted campers during the winter months. Your stay helps us ensure this forest remains a sanctuary for learning, conservation, and Appalachian traditions for generations to come. Thank you for considering being part of our story! Amenities/Features: The site offers immediate access to Goldenrod Road, which serves as the connection point for many of our trails. • Size: The campsite is 50 x 25 ft • Privacy: Other campsites are not visible from this location. • Lodge Access: Guests have full access to the YMC lodge common areas and miles of trails featuring interpretive signs. • Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome. Cooking: Self-supplied camp stoves are allowed at sites. Campfire Policy: Please restrict all campfires to the fire pit immediately outside the lodge. Firewood: To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. A starter bundle is included; let us know if you'd like extra. Facilities/Connectivity: Please note that this is a primitive camping site with no electricity or hook-ups. However, modern comforts are just a short walk away: • Bathrooms: dual full bathhouse is located about 200 feet away, next to the sauna. • Power/Wi-Fi: Open Wi-Fi is available in and around the lodge. You will also find numerous interior and exterior electric outlets at the lodge for your use. Lodge Common Areas: The lodge features a shared kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, hot water kettle, two single-burner cooktops, a toaster oven, a microwave, and a toaster. In the Great Room, you can enjoy a board game, get lost in a book, or share stories by the warmth of the large stone fireplace. Outside, guests can gather around the fire pit to play instruments, simply relax in the backyard to take in the scenic mountain views after a refreshing sauna.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Lobelia - Nature Sanctuary RV Site

RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 25 ft

It's fun to stay at the YMC non-profit nature learning center, featuring a private 500-acre nature sanctuary. Discover 5 ponds, trails, and events. Starlink. Dual bathhouse access. The Monongahela National Forest surrounds Yew Mountain Center (YMC), near Beartown State Park, Droop Mountain Battlefield, Greenbrier River Trail, Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest, Cranberry Wilderness. Pet-friendly. The space 25-foot maximum RV length Your campsite with a power hook-up, is located next to a 300-year-old White Oak tree. The two outside entrance bathrooms are located on the pond side of the lodge by the sauna. YMC is an educational non-profit organization located on 500-acres with a cozy lodge. The center has several trails and interpretive signs, along with our forest farming plantings. Cooking: Self-supplied camp stoves are allowed at sites. Campfire Policy: Please restrict all campfires to the fire pit immediately outside the lodge. Firewood: To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. A starter bundle is included; let us know if you'd like extra. Yew Mountain Center, a naturalist's haven, welcomes students, researchers, and artists. Perfect for solo retreats and groups seeking a wilderness experience. Beyond being a lodge with campsites, we, as a non-profit, host diverse events, allowing all guests to share and your welcome to enjoy the community spaces during these gatherings. Our programs with healthy local food and music creates a lifestyle experience that features the best of the Appalachian region. Your stay supports our educational programs for local youth.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

Electrical hookup

No water hookup

Reviews

100%· 5 reviews

Brianna C.
Tent camped at Trillium - Pondside Campsite YMC, Jun 2026.
Recommends
I loved the YMC! It really feels like a nature meets community center. The site next to the pond was super peaceful, and a great amount of space. It rained the whole weekend, and the pond never flooded the site. It was relatively private, but the bathrooms were easily accessible. The sauna was incredible, especially after a rainy hike. Melanie herself was super friendly, very accommodating with the weather (even droped dry kindling and wood!) and an all-around perfect host. I'm excited to go back for the mushroom festival later this summer!
William C.
Tent camped at Fields of Dreams - Campsite YMC with pets, May 2026.
Recommends
Melanie and Jonathan are great. Very hospitable. My family along with my best friend’s family met up for a weekend camping at Yew Mountain Center to spend time together for Shavuot/Pentecost. It rained much of the time, but it was very blessed. We were able to keep our food inside the lodge and hung out and ate dinner inside the lodge a couple nights. It’s a very beautiful place and well maintained. Hopefully we can go back someday. I definitely recommend camping at one of their sites or even staying in the lodge. Great place and great people.
Ken S.
Tent camped at Cattail - Pondside Campsite YMC, Oct 2025.
Recommends
My wife and I had a wonderful time camping at the Yew Mountain Center at their Cattail campsite. Gorgeous site right alongside the pond. Stocked with PLENTY of firewood. The lodge was available for cooking/relaxing and the heated full baths came with towels! This was all really a luxury to us since we are used to state/national parks without these included amenities. They only have a few sites so they are very private and well taken care of.

Amenities

Fire pitsPrivate fire pit at each site · Firewood provided, Firepit, Communal, Wood burning fireplace
Flush toilets
Potable waterAt some sites · Spigot, Tap, Hose, Pump or well
ShowersHot water, Cold water only
Picnic tables
Electricity hookupAt some sites · Less than 30 amps
Wifi
Trash disposalCompost bin, Recycling bin, Trash bin
Cooking equipmentAt some sites · Communal, Stovetop or hot plate, Fridge, Freezer, Cookware, Cooking utensils, Dishware, Cutlery, Basic seasoning and oils, Dishwasher, Sink or other dishwashing station, Grill over firepit
PlaygroundAt some sites
No water hookup
No laundry
No hot tub

Things to know

Walk-in access at some sites2WD accessible. Moderate walk at some sites.
Pet-friendlyOn leash.
Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
Check-in processYou'll meet and greet with your host Melanie upon arrival.
Cancellation policyFull refund 24 hours before check in time starts.
Check-in and check-outCheck-in times vary by site (from 2pm). Check-out times vary by site.
Booking windowBook up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Stay up to 29 nights depending on the site.

Extras

Sauna$10.00 per itemDirections for use are just inside the door to the sauna. Towels are provided in the outside entrance bathrooms near the sauna. Sauna takes about 25 minutes to fully heat up.
Extra Firewood$5.00 per itemYour site is stocked with a starter set of firewood. If you would like additional firewood, please purchase a bundle. Firewood ($5/10 logs): To protect our local trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, we ask guests not to bring outside firewood. On-site wood is available.