Summer Camping in West Virginia

Summer Camping in West Virginia

Discover the best summer camping across West Virginia. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.

20+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: June through August
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Trout Pond Recreation Area
Star
4.7
(242)
Trout Pond Recreation Area
Lost City
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Two pristine mountain lakes await swimmers, anglers, and paddlers throughout the long, sunny days of summer. The sandy beach on West Virginia's only natural lake stays comfortably busy without feeling crowded, while boat ramps provide easy access to dawn fishing sessions and afternoon...

Tents
RVs
2
Spruce Knob Lake
Star
4.7
(203)
Spruce Knob Lake
Riverton
Monongahela National Forest

Summer brings warm days for fishing and paddling the pristine mountain lake, surrounded by forest trails that wind through wildflower meadows and cool shade.

Tents
RVs
3
Big Bend (Wv)
Star
4.5
(354)
Big Bend (Wv)
Petersburg, WV
Monongahela National Forest

The South Branch Potomac River wraps around these campsites like a natural playground, where summer days unfold with tubing down gentle currents and kayaking through Smoke Hole Canyon's dramatic limestone walls.

Tents
RVs

About Summer Camping in West Virginia

Summer camping in West Virginia unveils the Mountain State's most spectacular natural treasures, from the cool heights of Spruce Knob Lake near the state's highest peak to the crystal waters of Trout Pond Recreation Area, West Virginia's only natural lake. The Appalachian highlands transform into a verdant paradise during summer months, offering relief from lowland heat while providing endless opportunities for water recreation, mountain exploration, and family adventures.

Best Time

The prime summer camping season in West Virginia runs from late May through early September, with peak conditions occurring in June and early July before the hottest and most humid weather arrives in August. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer camping, when most facilities open for the season and water temperatures become comfortable for swimming.

Season Highlights

  • Warm weather and long days
  • Swimming and water activities
  • Full amenities and services
  • Family-friendly activities

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Summer Camping in West Virginia

Map of campgrounds near Summer Camping in West Virginia
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Map Key
1
Trout Pond Recreation Area
2
Spruce Knob Lake
3
Big Bend (Wv)
4
Lake Sherwood
5
Glade Creek Campground
6
Gerald Freeman Campground
7
Spruce Knob Lake Campground
8
Tea Creek Campground
9
Red Creek Campground
10
Riffle Run Campground
11
Bakers Run Campground
12
Stuart Recreation Area
13
Horseshoe Recreation Area
14
Cranberry Campground
15
Bear Heaven Campground
16
Blue Bend Rec Area
17
Summit Lake Campground
18
Middle Mountain Cabins
19
Laurel Fork Campground
20
Big Rock Campground
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in natural lakes and designated beachesLake and river fishing for trout and bassKayaking and canoeing on calm mountain lakesWhitewater rafting and tubing on wild riversHiking mountain trails to waterfalls and overlooksMountain biking on forest service roads

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular campgrounds like Spruce Knob Lake, Big Bend, and Gerald Freeman at least 30 days in advance through Recreation.gov, especially for weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
  • 2Bring layers even in July—mountain evenings regularly drop into the 50s, and afternoon thunderstorms can arrive suddenly with dramatic temperature drops.
  • 3Pack rain gear and a tarp for your picnic table, as summer storms are frequent and can be intense.
  • 4For lake camping, bring water shoes for rocky entries and consider inflatable kayaks or paddleboards, which are easier to transport on mountain roads than hard-shell boats.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Summer Camping in West Virginia

Summer Camping in West Virginia FAQ

We've ranked 20+ summer campgrounds in West Virginia based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in West Virginia. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in West Virginia, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
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