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.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Hopkins Mountain Fireman'S Cabin
Perched at 3,162 feet, this historic cabin commands sweeping vistas across West Virginia's untamed mountain wilderness, where ancient hemlocks and rugged peaks stretch to the horizon.
Spruce Knob Lake
Perched at high elevation near West Virginia's tallest peak, this lakeside retreat delivers sweeping Allegheny Mountain panoramas from a forested ridge where red spruce forests meet open sky.
Trout Pond Recreation Area
Surrounded by the rolling peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, this dual-lake retreat sits within the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests where forested ridgelines create a dramatic backdrop for waterside camping.
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
Explore Mountain Camping in West Virginia
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
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.
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.
Popular West Virginia Campgrounds Book Fast
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Hopkins Mountain Fireman'S Cabin
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