Is Big Rock Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Rock Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Big Rock Campground?

Big Rock Campground is open Seasons of Use April - November. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Rock Campground?

Big Rock Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Big Rock Campground have?

Big Rock Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Big Rock Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Big Rock Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Big Rock Campground?

Big Rock Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Big Rock Campground

4.05

19 reviews

Peace & QuietFishing

Featured in:Primitive Camping West Virginia Mountain Camping West Virginia Forest Camping West Virginia +2 more

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

2,244 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Seasons of Use April...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

2,244 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Seasons of Use April...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Big Rock Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Big Rock Campground

38.2961, -80.5239

Nearby places

Richwood (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes driving)

Weather at Big Rock Campground

Best Time to Camp at Big Rock Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of crisp, comfortable weather and spectacular Appalachian color — expect daytime highs around 50–65°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s, especially in October. The Cranberry River and surrounding hardwoods put on peak foliage from late September through mid-October, making fishing, photography, and short hikes especially rewarding. Crowd levels rise on peak-color weekends but Big Rock’s five secluded sites still feel peaceful compared with larger facilities. Peak months: October, September, June, July Avoid: January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall cited as best time; peak foliage late Sept–mid-Oct and comfortable daytime temps.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Seasons of Use April - November

About Big Rock Campground

Big Rock Campground sits along the Cranberry River in Monongahela National Forest, a very small primitive site with just five spots for tents and smaller RVs. Reviewers praise the crystal-clear trout stream and scenic riverside setting, though amenities are basic: vault toilets, picnic tables, and hand-pump water. Fall brings peak foliage and excellent fishing conditions in this quiet corner of the Appalachian foothills near Richwood.

This campground is suited for tent camping, with limited facilities and a rustic appeal.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of crisp, comfortable weather and spectacular Appalachian color — expect daytime highs around 50–65°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s, especially in October. The Cranberry River and surrounding hardwoods put on peak foliage from late September through mid-October, making fishing, photography, and short hikes especially rewarding. Crowd levels rise on peak-color weekends but Big Rock’s five secluded sites still feel peaceful compared with larger facilities. Peak months: October, September, June, July Avoid: January, February

Elevation2244 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Cranberry River runs clear and cold past the campground, stocked with trout and flanked by dense hardwood forest. Forested hillsides drop down to the water, creating steep terrain and a canopy of mixed Appalachian trees that shade the sites. The river can rise fast after rain. One reviewer calls the water crystal-clear, another says it's one of the most beautiful spots on the Cranberry.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made online or via any platform; the campground operates on a walk-in basis.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the source.

Site SizeThe campground is small with a limited number of sites (5 units).

PrivacySites are described as wooded and spacious, offering a degree of privacy.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesUser reviews strongly recommend sites near the Cranberry River for optimal views and proximity to fishing.

Amenities available

Big Rock Campground is described as a small, wooded campground with only five units located adjacent to the Cranberry River. It is characterized by its wooded setting and proximity to the river, making it more suitable for tent camping.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is well-suited for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and enjoying nature.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

19 reviews

Satisfactory

Big Rock Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is highly praised for its rustic charm, natural beauty, and proximity to the Cranberry River. However, some reviews highlight challenges with RV accessibility, lack of hookups, and remote location.

Review Summaries

Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

User Don Johnson calls it "one of the most beautiful spots on Cranberry," praising its suitability for tent and RV camping. Explorer Mike describes it as "a real treasure" with attractive campsites...

Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers note that it is not ideal for RVs, with Explorer Mike stating it would be a 'nightmare' for larger vehicles. Limited facilities (no electricity or water hookups) and lack of cell...

Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Explorer Mike notes that the campground is built on the side of a hill with two levels and spacious, wooded sites. Don Johnson disputes this, stating it is one level and only a handful of sites exist.

Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

One user advises downloading directions in advance due to remote location and lack of cell service. Another suggests preparing for weather changes, as rain can cause the river to rise suddenly.

Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends are not explicitly detailed, but one user highlights the need to be cautious during rainy weather due to potential river rise.

Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This is one of the most beautiful spots on Cranberry." - Don Johnson. "Be prepared...rain can cause sudden rise of the river." - User. "No cell service but if you like nature you're happy." - Angela...

Based on 19 reviews