Free Camping in West Virginia
Discover 5 free and dispersed camping spots
Best Seasons
Spring, Summer, Fall
Climate
Humid continental with regional variations
Terrain
Mountains, Forests
Free Spots
5 locations
Camping Spots (5)
Monongahela – Dolly Sods Lines
"Free dispersed camping around Monongahela NF West Virginia. High plateaus and bogs with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Dolly Sods edges. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Parking tight; fragile soils Arrive early to claim a legal
Monongahela – Glady FR 162
"Free dispersed camping around Monongahela NF West Virginia. Spruce bottoms and trout streams with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Glady/Bemis. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Weather shifts fast Arrive early to claim a legal
Monongahela – Laurel Fork Backroads
"Free dispersed camping at Monongahela – Laurel Fork Backroads in West Virginia. High spruce meadows and creeks with informal pullouts and some level clearings near Laurel Fork. Primitive conditions with no hookups or trash service. Storms roll in fast Arrive early
Monongahela NF – Cranberry Wilderness vicinity
High plateau & bogs. Pullouts along FR 76 & forest roads.
Monongahela NF – Cranberry Wilderness vicinity
High plateau & bogs. Pullouts along FR 76 & forest roads.
Popular Camping Areas
- Monongahela National Forest
- New River Gorge Area
- Dolly Sods Wilderness
Important Regulations
- 14-day camping limits
- Weather awareness essential
- Leave No Trace principles
Permits: Most national forest camping is free
Complete Guide to Free Camping in West Virginia
West Virginia provides pristine Appalachian wilderness camping with Monongahela National Forest offering excellent mountain camping experiences.
Best Free Camping Areas in West Virginia
West Virginia offers diverse free camping opportunities across mountains, forests, streams, wilderness. The most popular areas include Monongahela National Forest, New River Gorge Area, Dolly Sods Wilderness, each offering unique landscapes and camping experiences.
When to Visit West Virginia for Camping
The best times for free camping in West Virginia are during spring, summer, fall. The state's humid continental with regional variations means weather conditions vary throughout the year, so planning your visit during optimal seasons ensures the best camping experience.
West Virginia Camping Regulations
Before camping in West Virginia, it's important to understand local regulations. Most national forest camping is freeMost dispersed camping follows standard federal guidelines, but some areas may have specific restrictions.
What to Expect
Free camping in West Virginia typically involves camping on public lands managed by the Forest Service, BLM, or state agencies. Expect primitive conditions with no hookups, but incredible natural beauty and the freedom to explore mountains, forests, streams, wilderness at your own pace.