Red Creek Campground
4.5733 reviewsRed Creek Campground
$11.00 - $11.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$11.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee is $11, as confirmed by multiple user reviews ('Small campground @ $11/day').
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About this campground
Perched high atop the windswept Allegheny Plateau, Red Creek Campground offers adventurers a raw, authentic wilderness experience in the heart of the Dolly Sods Scenic Area. This intimate, primitive campground serves as basecamp for those seeking solitude and connection with nature, where basic amenities meet extraordinary landscapes. With just vault toilets and nature's grandeur as your companions, you'll find yourself immersed in a world beloved by seasoned hikers, dedicated birdwatchers, and intrepid backpackers who return year after year to this rugged paradise.
The campground caters primarily to primitive camping with no modern facilities, making it ideal for nature lovers and backpackers seeking solitude.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsPrepare for nature's dramatic moods at Red Creek, where the mountain's exposed position creates an ever-changing weather theater. Fierce winds sweep across the plateau with remarkable consistency, earning this spot a reputation as one of the region's most atmospheric campgrounds. Even summer visitors should pack layers—the elevation brings surprising cold snaps that can transform a July evening into an autumn-like experience. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice, creating conditions that demand respect and proper preparation from those brave enough to venture forth.
ElevationFrom your tent at Red Creek, you'll wake to panoramic vistas that stretch across the entire Dolly Sods wilderness—a privilege earned by the campground's commanding plateau position. This lofty perch delivers more than just views; it shapes the very character of your camping experience. The constant mountain breezes that dance through camp serve as nature's air conditioning, while the thin air reminds you that you've ascended into a different world. Here, the elevation isn't just a number—it's a defining feature that creates cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that exhilarating feeling of camping on top of the world.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an unexpected slice of the far north without leaving West Virginia. Red Creek's surroundings transport visitors to a landscape more reminiscent of Canadian tundra than Appalachian forest, creating an otherworldly camping experience. In late spring and early summer, the wilderness erupts in a spectacular display as mountain laurel, rhododendron, and native azaleas paint the landscape in vibrant pinks and whites. Dense, untamed forest presses close to the campground's edges, promising endless exploration. During late summer and fall, lucky visitors might witness the fascinating work of researchers conducting bird banding studies, adding a touch of scientific discovery to the wild beauty that defines this remarkable place.
Geological RegionRed Creek Campground claims its home atop the ancient Allegheny Plateau, within the legendary Dolly Sods Scenic Area—a geological marvel that defies expectations. This unique highland wilderness showcases a rare ecosystem where southern latitude meets northern character, creating a fascinating paradox that captivates geologists and nature lovers alike. The plateau's distinctive features have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Mid-Atlantic, where weathered rocks, wind-stunted vegetation, and vast open meadows create scenes more typical of subarctic regions. It's this remarkable geological heritage that makes camping at Red Creek feel like discovering a secret corner of the continent.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe rugged terrain and lack of modern infrastructure may limit accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe sites are generally described as spacious, accommodating tents of various sizes. Camper trailers under 16 feet may also fit.
Sites PrivacySites offer good separation from each other, providing a level of privacy that campers appreciate.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are described as private and spacious. Arriving early, particularly on weekends, is strongly recommended.
Best CampsitesNo individual sites are explicitly named as better than others, but users recommend arriving early to secure private, well-spaced sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- No official check-in time
- user reviews describe a first-come, first-served process.
Check-out
- No official check-out time
- user reviews describe flexibility.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is not explicitly stated but user reviews consistently highlight first-come, first-served policies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews indicate multiple tents and vehicles can fit within individual sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out in a semi-circle with 12 primitive sites surrounding two composting toilets. Sites are well spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific seasons stated; campground operates year-round as per user reviews.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are accepted; payment is collected via cash or check at the site.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews emphasize high demand and the necessity of arriving early ('Managed to snag only site available on a Wednesday 10am...glad I got there when I did!').
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable due to the campground's first-come, first-served policy.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Red Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and nature exploration within the Dolly Sods Wilderness. The surroundings provide stunning views and direct access to trails.
Hiking
The campground is located near various hiking trails, including the Blackbird Knob Trail, which is a short walk away. Trails are well-suited for both beginners and experienced hikers.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, and bird banding activities take place in late summer and fall. Campers frequently report stunning wildlife encounters.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in relation to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- User reviews and regulations indicate fires are allowed at designated fire pits. Visitors are advised to bring their own firewood or purchase locally.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include narrow and rocky access roads mentioned in user reviews ('Don't recommend taking a camper bigger than 16ft since it's one road for 2-way traffic'). No water sources at the camp make preparedness essential.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers are required to pack out all trash and leave no waste behind.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are explicitly described, but a spring is noted as being accessible via site 3.
Common complaintsHigh demand for sites, especially during weekends and peak hiking seasons ('Fills up fast, no sites available'). Lack of on-site supplies and amenities like potable water are noted.
HostUser reviews note that no host is available to collect payments; payments are made via cash or check in envelopes at the site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Petersburg, WV, go south on 28/55 to State Route 4 (Jordan Run Road). Follow SR 4 for one mile and turn left onto Forest Road 19. Follow FR 19 for 6 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 75. Follow FR 75 for 7 miles to the campground.
The road access to the campground is described as rocky and rough, with narrow stretches. Some user reviews mention: 'The very rocky/rough long road up to the place.'Nearby places
Approximately 20 miles northwest from Petersburg, West Virginia, and 24 miles north of Seneca Rocks.
Nearby supplies
User reviews indicate the nearest town is at least 30 minutes away, and visitors should bring sufficient water and gas before heading to the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
33 reviews
Red Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Red Creek Campground as a peaceful and scenic spot with clean facilities and a remote, wilderness feel. Many reviewers emphasize the need to arrive early due to high demand, even on weekdays.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, privacy, and proximity to excellent hiking trails. Visitors also appreciate the rustic and serene atmosphere.
Based on 33 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the rough, rocky road leading to the campground, the lack of water on-site, and the limited number of campsites often leading to overcrowding.
Based on 33 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing adequate water, arriving early to secure a site, and preparing for the remote location with necessary supplies. Firewood should be purchased beforehand as it is not available...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors note that the campground is busiest in late spring through early fall, with weekends and holidays particularly crowded. The fall season offers stunning foliage views, while winter may bring...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'No cell-service, phenomenal overlooks of the area, beautiful thick rich authentic wilderness leaves me excited for the next trip!' - 'Clean, quiet, prime location (only game in town if you...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is noted for its proximity to a spring for water filtering. Several reviews highlight that all 12 sites are well-spaced and private.
Based on 33 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the remote and primitive nature of the campground suggests limited accessibility.
Based on 33 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Visitors frequently bring dogs and appreciate the pet-friendly policy.
Based on 33 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025