Williams River

Star3.50
6 reviews

Quick Facts

0

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

30 campsites

Season

The campsite is open...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Monongahela National Forest site

Official Website
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Williams River
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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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

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What Campers Say

3.50

Mixed Reviews

Based on 6 reviews

4 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietsites

"User reviews paint a picture of a rustic and peaceful camping area, highlighting its suitability for anglers and nature lovers. Common sentiments touch on the remoteness and lack of modern amenities."

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Campground Map

Williams River

38.3277, -80.2151

Driving directionsAccess to the lower end of the river near Cowen is by Secondary Route 46 and The Williams River Road (Forest Road 86). These roads closely follow the Williams River. The Highland Scenic Highway, Route 150, provides access to the middle section. The Highland Scenic Highway receives no snow removal and can be very dangerous during winter months. The upper end can be reached from Secondary Route 17 off of Route 219.
"Google should never direct people traveling onto this road. It is beautiful but extremely narrow and dangerous." (user review). The Highland Scenic Highway receives no snow removal in the winter, making it hazardous during this time.

Best Time to Camp at Williams River

Each season paints Williams River in different hues, from spring's vibrant awakening to autumn's fiery display. While weather patterns shift dramatically throughout the year, creating unique camping experiences in every season, savvy campers know that timing is everything. Whether you're seeking summer's warm embraces or fall's crisp mornings, understanding the seasonal rhythms will help you plan the perfect wilderness escape.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open when roads are snow-free; summer ideal for fishing and riverside camping.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn's 'fiery display' and scenic drives make fall an especially attractive season.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring 'vibrant awakening' noted, but road/condition variability after thaw can limit access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Highland Scenic Highway gets no snow removal; winter access is dangerous and facilities close.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: The campsite is open when roads are snow-free, while toilets close on Dec 1.

About Williams River

Escape to Williams River Campground, where 30 secluded campsites beckon adventurers seeking authentic wilderness experiences. Scattered along the scenic Williams River Road (Forest Roads 86 and 216), these rustic sites offer the perfect blend of accessibility and backcountry solitude, inviting you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
Williams River offers dispersed camping options, emphasizing a rustic experience without modern facilities. There are no designated campgrounds.
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Activities you can enjoy

The Williams River area is known for its focus on outdoor and rustic activities. Fishing is a major draw, as many campsites are located close to the river, which boasts diverse aquatic life and good fishing conditions. Scenic drives are another listed activity.
FishingFishing is highlighted as a prominent activity in user reviews and authoritative content. The Williams River is described as having excellent pools, in-stream cover, and a diverse abundance of aquatic insects, making it a haven for anglers.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNarrow and potentially hazardous roads in winter. "Avoid unless you are seeking to enter the area for camping," according to a user review.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Williams River

Reviews

3.5
6 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Williams River has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a picture of a rustic and peaceful camping area, highlighting its suitability for anglers and nature lovers. Common sentiments touch on the remoteness and lack of modern amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the 'absolute peace and quiet' and proximity to the river, making it ideal for fishing. One user noted, 'Many of these sites are close to the river, and are very popular with...
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Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

Access roads are described as narrow and dangerous. One user warned: 'Google should never direct people traveling onto this road. It is beautiful but extremely narrow and dangerous.'
Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors planning to camp should prepare for the lack of restrooms and potable water. Bringing all necessary supplies is crucial for a comfortable stay.
Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter access is challenging due to unmaintained roads, as noted in the official description: 'The Highland Scenic Highway receives no snow removal and can be very dangerous during winter months.'
Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'There are 30 separate, rustic campsites located along Williams River Road, designated as Forest Roads 86 and 216.' 2. 'Absolute peace and quiet.' 3. 'Google should never direct people traveling...
Show more
Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

A user noted the presence of '30 separate, rustic campsites located along Williams River Road, designated as Forest Roads 86 and 216.'
Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not provide information about pets or pet-friendly features.
Based on 6 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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