Is War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground before I book?

Yes! War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

Are there showers at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground?

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground?

Cell phone service at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground have?

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground has 8 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground?

Pets are not allowed at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

3.55

20 reviews

PO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV, 25846, USA

This campground is currently closed

It's marked closed by the operator right now, so it isn't taking reservations. We keep the page up so you can still read reviews, photos, and details and plan for when it reopens.

Stargazing

Quick Facts

2,536 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,536 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

(304) 465-0508neri_interpretation@nps.gov

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Campground Map

PO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV, 25846, USA

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

PO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV, 25846, USA

Nearby places

Glen Jean (approx. 15 miles), Beckley (approx. 20 miles), Danese (approx. 10 miles)

Weather at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

Best Time to Camp at War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking experience at War Ridge — crisp, clear days and peak Appalachian foliage paint the ridgeline in brilliant reds and golds while temperatures stay comfortable (daytime highs in the 50s–60s°F, nights commonly 30s–40s°F). Hiking, photography, and ridge-top stargazing are at their best, with fewer bugs and pleasantly cool evenings that make campfires and long dinners enjoyable. Expect moderate weekend crowds (still far quieter than riverside sites in the park) and be CCO Peak months: October, September, May, June

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Overview: 'Best season: fall' with peak Appalachian foliage and crisp, clear days.

Planning Tips

About War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground sits in the foothills of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve near Glen Jean, West Virginia. Operated by the National Park Service, this very small primitive campground offers secluded ridge-top camping with fire rings and picnic tables at each site. The location delivers exceptional stargazing and fall foliage viewing, though sites are closely spaced and the area sees occasional disturbances from non-campers.

The campground caters to primitive camping and is tailored for those seeking an off-the-grid experience. It accommodates a mix of tent campers and small RV campers, with no reservations allowed.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking experience at War Ridge — crisp, clear days and peak Appalachian foliage paint the ridgeline in brilliant reds and golds while temperatures stay comfortable (daytime highs in the 50s–60s°F, nights commonly 30s–40s°F). Hiking, photography, and ridge-top stargazing are at their best, with fewer bugs and pleasantly cool evenings that make campfires and long dinners enjoyable. Expect moderate weekend crowds (still far quieter than riverside sites in the park) and be CCO Peak months: October, September, May, June

Elevation2536 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested ridgeline where mature Appalachian hardwoods and evergreens dominate the canopy. Backus Mountain forms the backdrop, its slopes covered in the kind of mixed forest typical of these ancient mountains. The elevation and distance from developed areas make for exceptional stargazing. Reviewers consistently mention the night sky as a highlight. Mornings bring birdsong echoing through the hollows, and the ridgetop position catches breezes that keep summer heat manageable.

Lodging & AccommodationsOnly primitive camping accommodations are available; no hotel-style lodging or cabins exist.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs were noted.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Camp only at designated sites
RV, camper, or car camping in non-designated sites or parking areas is strictly prohibited.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Primitive camping sites accommodate typical camping setups for tents or small RVs less than 25 feet.

Groups

No group camping facilities or information about group capacity was provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or through the contact center.

Site SizeThe campground has 8 drive-in sites suitable for tents and small RVs (less than 25 feet).

PrivacySites are described as being 'close together,' which limits privacy. However, some users noted the campground is less crowded compared to others in the park.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites based on privacy preferences. Some reviews indicate that the campground is often uncrowded, offering peace and solitude.

Amenities available

The War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is a primitive camping site located on a ridgetop near Backus Mountain. This campground offers 8 drive-in sites for tents, RVs, or campers. Campers must note that only small RVs or campers (less than 25 feet) are recommended. Amenities include fire pits and picnic tables at each site. It has been noted that 'the stars are incredibly bright here' and the campground provides a peaceful and secluded experience. However, there are minimal facilities, and the only restroom facility is a porta-potty onsite.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is a peaceful and less-visited campground offering a quiet escape for campers. The campground is known for its stunning starry skies and the surrounding natural beauty. While no specific hiking or biking trails originate at the campground, the gravel road leading to the campground can be used for walks. Proximity to other areas of the park allows for exploration of nearby off-road trails and the iconic mill in Babcock State Park.

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 Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The only available restroom facility is a porta-potty, which a user described as 'the cleanest I’ve ever used.'

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.6

20 reviews

Mixed Reviews

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is described as a peaceful, less-visited primitive camping site ideal for experiencing seclusion and natural beauty. Most reviewers appreciated the quiet setting, the bright night skies, and the simple amenities. Some concerns were raised about the proximity of the sites and the occasional presence of locals passing through.

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the campground's seclusion, the breathtaking starry skies, the peace and quiet, and the presence of fire pits and picnic tables at each site. The porta-potty was also...

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users were concerned about the proximity of the campsites, as they are quite close to each other. Others mentioned occasional disturbances from locals driving through the campground.

Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific information indicates that the campground has 8 drive-in sites. Some reviews mentioned there being 6 to 10 sites, so there may be slight inconsistencies in user accounts.

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers recommend being prepared for primitive camping, including bringing sufficient water and bear spray. Starlink or a booster may be used for better cell reception. Campers should also consider...

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlighted the need for the campground's breezy location given West Virginia's high humidity. Fall reviews appreciated the reduced crowds and the crisp weather for camping.

Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice little campground, firepit and picnic table at each site. The stars are incredibly bright here, everything is just beautiful.' - Monica Brown 2. 'Wonderful place for peace and quiet!...

Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features were not reviewed in detail, and no specific insights from users with disabilities were provided.

Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies were not specifically addressed in the reviews; it is unclear whether pets are allowed.

Based on 20 reviews

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War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(304) 465-0508neri_interpretation@nps.gov

Go if

You want primitive ridge-top camping with dark skies in New River Gorge and value seclusion over amenities.

Skip if

You need electric hookups, water access, or guaranteed privacy between neighboring sites.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.5

(25)

Little Beaver Campground

Nestled among towering hardwoods on the shores of an 18-acre lake, Little Beaver Campground offers 46 modern campsites where forest meets water. This family-friendly retreat, which opened in 2011, features both electric+water and water-only sites, a well-equipped bathhouse with laundry facilities, and convenient trail access connecting you to the shimmering lakeshore and beyond.

PO Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV 25846, USA

Brooklyn Campground sits along the New River in New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a primitive National Park Service site with just five riverside spots. This foothill campground offers vault toilets and fire rings in a quiet setting where passing trains add character to the experience. Visitors come for fall foliage, stargazing, and unhurried time by the water.

Tucked into the heart of Appalachia's rugged terrain, Babcock Campground offers a secluded retreat where steep sandstone gorges meet crystal-clear mountain streams. Whether you choose an electric or non-electric site beneath the forest canopy, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore Boley Lake, the dramatic Manns Creek Gorge trails, and the legendary attractions of nearby New River Gorge.

Nestled in the rugged mountains of southern West Virginia, Bluestone State Park campground welcomes you to 123 sites spread across four distinct camping areas, where the forest meets the sparkling waters of Bluestone Lake. Whether you're pitching your tent steps from the shoreline or settling into a cozy cabin beneath towering hardwoods, you'll find the perfect basecamp for lake adventures and woodland exploration.

Pipestem Resort Campground

Perched on the east rim of the dramatic Bluestone River Gorge, Pipestem Resort Campground blends the comfort of full-service amenities with the wild beauty of 4,050 forested acres. Your wooded campsite becomes home base for everything from aerial tram rides into the gorge to lazy afternoons by Long Branch Lake, all while heated bathhouses and nearby resort facilities keep you comfortable between adventures.

Camp Creek State Park And Forest Campground

Camp Creek State Park and Forest Campground

Nestled in nearly 6,000 acres of pristine Appalachian wilderness, Camp Creek State Park and Forest is where cascading waterfalls meet crystal-clear, trout-filled streams. Adventure seekers will find roughly 30-35 miles of trails winding through lush forest, while the well-appointed Mash Fork Campground offers modern hookups and a heated bathhouse—bringing comfort to your mountain escape.

Campgrounds

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

About New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

Context for the broader area surrounding War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

Directions

To reach Park Headquarters take Route 19 North from Beckley to the Glen Jean exit. Upon exiting Rt 19, make an immediate left turn. At the next intersection, turn right. Park Headquarters will be straight ahead on the right. GPS Coordinates for Headquarters: 81.15587W, 37.92775N PLEASE NOTE: Third party search and map apps may direct you to an potentially inaccessible area of the park with no amenities or rangers stations. Please refer to the Visitor Center or Park Headquarters addresses for directions.