Glade Creek Campground
4.5434 reviewsPO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV, 25846, USA
Glade Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 campground is free to use as of now, with no reservation or recreation use fee required.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the ancient New River Gorge, Glade Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience where the forest meets the water. This intimate campground features 12 thoughtfully placed sites, including 6 secluded walk-in tent spots for those seeking solitude, 5 drive-in sites perfect for tents or cozy RVs under 25 feet, and 1 fully accessible site. Here, camping means falling asleep to the gentle murmur of the New River and waking to birdsong filtering through the canopy.
Glade Creek Campground offers primitive camping options for tents and RVs, with both walk-in and drive-in sites. The campground is first-come, first-served, and includes one accessible site.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on storied ground within New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, where one of Earth's oldest rivers has carved its path for millions of years. This ancient waterway witnessed the rise and fall of coal mining communities, heard the whistle of steam engines crossing impossible bridges, and carried the dreams of generations who worked the rails and mines. Today, these forests and waters tell their stories to those who pause to listen.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint this riverside retreat in ever-changing colors. Spring arrives with wildflowers and rushing waters, while summer transforms the campground into a paddler's paradise where the river beckons for swimming and kayaking adventures. Autumn sets the hardwood forest ablaze with color, and winter brings a hushed beauty, occasionally dusting the gorge with snow. Pack layers and rain gear—the gorge creates its own weather patterns, and morning mists often give way to sunny afternoons.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground rests in the river valley where the terrain creates natural amphitheaters of sound and shifting light throughout the day.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of hardwoods shelters the campground, creating dappled shade and intimate spaces between sites. The New River reveals itself through breaks in the trees, offering what visitors describe as 'fantastic views from the beach area.' The walk-in sites, tucked between the flowing river and the winding trail, provide generous spacing and privacy—each one feeling like its own secret grove. Morning mists rise from the water, afternoon sun sparkles on the current, and evening brings the forest alive with nocturnal symphonies.
Geological RegionGlade Creek Campground sits within the dramatic landscape of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, where ancient geological forces created a masterpiece of steep sandstone cliffs, cascading creeks, and dense hardwood forests. This rugged terrain, carved by one of the continent's oldest rivers, harbors remarkable biodiversity—from towering oaks and maples to delicate wildflowers that carpet the forest floor. The meeting of Glade Creek and the New River creates a particularly rich ecosystem where water, stone, and forest converge in timeless harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes one accessible site. A reviewer notes: 'Very handicap friendly, and if you have a disabled family member, I recommend camping here!'
Sites SizeThe campground includes 6 walk-in tent sites and 5 drive-in sites suitable for tents, small RVs (under 25 feet), and medium RVs (22-31.5 feet).
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Drive-in sites are described as offering more privacy than walk-in sites. A reviewer states: 'The drive-in spaces are great with more privacy than the walk-in spaces.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose drive-in spaces. For scenic views, opt for walk-in sites close to the New River. Site #5 is recommended for its level ground, clear area, and convenient amenities (User: Joe Van Tassel).
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight walk-in sites near the river as the most popular, providing stunning views and proximity to the water. "The sites near the river are the best," commented Heather Surma.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified in official sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 6 walk-in sites along the river and 5 drive-in sites nearby, with 1 accessible site. Sites are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; no specific closed season documented.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are required or available for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come-first-serve. No reservation system is in place; the campground is busy during weekends and peak seasons as per user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCamping is on a first-come-first-serve basis, with no reservation system, therefore no cancellation policy exists.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Located near the Glade Creek Trailhead, it is also close to the New River, which supports activities like boating and kayaking.
Hiking
The Glade Creek Trail is a highlight for hikers, described as 'one of the best trails to hike.' It leads to features like Kate's Falls and is noted for its scenic beauty and gradual uphill climb.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity. Reviewers call it 'great for fishing,' and one mentions 'great fishing, great camping, great family fun for all!'Swimming
Swimming is possible in designated areas, though safety depends on water levels. One review notes: 'The creek was super high and didn’t look safe for swimming while we were there.'Boating
Boating activities, particularly whitewater boating, are supported. A reviewer states: 'That section of the New River is also great for beginners who want to get into Whitewater boating.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is mentioned in reviews: 'You are also able to enjoy the wildlife as they pass through your camping area.'Beach activities
The campground includes access to scenic beaches, described as 'the most beautiful beaches.' Another user mentioned: 'Lovely sunset on the beach.'Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned, but the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are possible, given the proximity to the New River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Official sources do not specify fire policies; sites include fire rings and grills, which are commonly used for campfires.
- Quiet hours are No documented quiet hours, but user reviews indicate occasional disturbances from trains or crowded conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife is commonly seen and trains are nearby, with noise often reported during the night. "This campground seems to be very popular," wrote Alyssa Saldivar, with potential crowds and limited availability during busy periods.
Active alertsNo active warnings or advisories noted in official sources.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest hospital: Beckley ARH Hospital (approximately 30 miles away); nearest police station: Glen Jean area; nearest ranger station: New River Gorge National Park & Preserve headquarters (approximately 30 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified in authoritative sources.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the New River and near Glade Creek. Some campsites are riverside, offering easy access for kayaking or swimming.
Common complaintsNoise from trains passing nearby is frequently mentioned. "4☆ because of all the trains in the night, definitely not good for light sleepers," noted Alyssa Saldivar. Limited cell service is another common drawback.
HostNo campground host is present, as noted by user Matthew Engleby.
Campground Map
PO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV, 25846, USA
Driving directionsLocated at the end of Glade Creek Road, off Route 41 near Prince. Coming from Beckley, Glade Creek Road is a well-marked right-hand turn before crossing the New River. Follow Glade Creek Road for six miles to the campground.
The campground is accessed via a gravel road (Glade Creek Road) for approximately six miles off Route 41. While navigable, larger RVs may find it challenging. Only small (less than 25 feet) and medium-sized RVs (22 - 31.5 feet) are recommended.Nearby places
Oakvale, WV (approximately 45 miles)
Beckley, WV (approximately 30 miles)
Prince, WV (approximately 6 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery and fuel services are located in Beckley, WV, about 30 miles from the campground. Supplies may also be available in smaller nearby towns like Prince, WV (6 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
34 reviews
Glade Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most reviews praise the campground's natural beauty, proximity to the river, and seclusion. However, common complaints include noise from nearby trains and lack of cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, scenic river views, access to the Glade Creek Trail, and well-maintained campsites. One user states: 'The campground is beautiful. Fantastic views of the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include train noise disrupting sleep and lack of cell service. A user notes: 'Definitely not good for light sleepers, it was a lot of noise.'
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing earplugs for train noise, preparing for no cell service, and arriving early due to the campground’s popularity: 'First come, first served primitive campsites here....
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is especially busy during summer weekends, as noted in reviews. High water levels in spring can limit swimming opportunities.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The drive-in spaces are great with more privacy than the walk-in spaces.'
2. 'Vault toilets about a minute walk in either direction, and very convenient to the Glade Creek Trail trailhead.'
3....
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is noted for its level ground and clear space: 'Our site (#5) was very level and clear of major debris which is always a plus for tent camping.'
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is highlighted positively, with one reviewer stating: 'Very handicap friendly, and if you have a disabled family member, I recommend camping here!'
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025