Mountain Camping in West Virginia

Mountain Camping in West Virginia

Discover the best mountain camping across West Virginia. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Year-round

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Mountain Camping in West Virginia

Mountain camping West Virginia offers some of the most dramatic and diverse high-elevation experiences in the Appalachian region, where ancient peaks, pristine wilderness areas, and unique highland ecosystems create an unforgettable outdoor adventure. The Mountain State lives up to its name with rugged terrain ranging from the windswept plateau of Dolly Sods to the towering summit of Spruce Knob, the highest point in the state at 4,863 feet.

Best Time

The prime mountain camping season in West Virginia runs from late May through October, with each season offering distinct advantages for different types of campers. Summer months from June through August provide the warmest weather and fullest access to high-elevation sites, though afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains and temperatures can still be surprisingly cool at night, especially above 3,500 feet.

Scenery Highlights

  • Stunning mountain panoramas
  • Cool alpine temperatures
  • Alpine lakes and meadows
  • World-class hiking trails


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Mountain Camping in West Virginia

Map Key
1
Hopkins Mountain Fireman'S Cabin
2
Spruce Knob Lake
3
Trout Pond Recreation Area
4
Red Creek Campground
5
Cranberry Campground
6
Glade Creek Campground
7
Spruce Knob Lake Campground
8
Tea Creek Campground
9
Lake Sherwood
10
Bear Heaven Campground
11
Middle Mountain Cabins
12
Laurel Fork Campground
13
Stuart Recreation Area
14
Blue Bend Rec Area
15
Horseshoe Recreation Area
16
Summit Lake Campground
17
Bishop Knob Campground
18
Big Rock Campground
19
Riffle Run Campground
20
Burnwood Group Campsite

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Mountain hiking and backpacking on hundreds of miles of trailsScenic driving along highland parkways and forest roadsWildlife viewing including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeysPhotography of mountain vistas, waterfalls, and fall foliageFishing in mountain streams and high-elevation lakesStargazing and night sky observation

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites at popular locations like Spruce Knob Lake and Cranberry Campground at least two weeks in advance for summer weekends, as these fill quickly through Recreation.gov.
  • 2Pack layers regardless of season—mountain temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from day to night, and weather changes rapidly at higher elevations.
  • 3Bear-proof food storage is mandatory throughout West Virginia's mountain regions; use provided bear boxes where available or hang food properly using the counterbalance method.
  • 4Bring a detailed paper map and compass, as GPS and cell service are unreliable in mountain valleys and dense forests.
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Mountain Camping in West Virginia FAQ

We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in West Virginia based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.

Mountain camping in West Virginia requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.

Mountain camping season in West Virginia typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.

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