Mercer County, West Virginia
Camp Creek State Park
Two photogenic waterfalls, 35 miles of trails shared with a sprawling state forest, and a quiet creekside campground make Camp Creek a favorite of southern West Virginia hikers and anglers.

Quick Info
- County / Location
- Mercer County, near Bluefield & Princeton, WV
- Best For
- Waterfalls, hiking, trout fishing, camping, forest solitude
- Best Time to Visit
- April–October; waterfalls best after spring rain
- Time Needed
- Half day for falls and short trails; a full day to hike far
- Fees
- Day use free; camping fees apply
- Notable Amenities
- Campground, picnic shelters, trails, fishing streams
Overview
Camp Creek State Park spans a narrow, stream-cut valley in the Allegheny foothills near Bluefield, and it is paired with the much larger Camp Creek State Forest next door. Together they protect more than 5,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest laced with creeks and waterfalls.
The park's two signature drops are Campbell Falls and Mash Fork Falls, both reached by short walks and both at their most dramatic in spring or after heavy rain.
This is a low-key, working-forest kind of place — no lodge, no golf, just trails, trout water, picnic shelters, and a campground that feels genuinely removed from town despite being only minutes from Bluefield and Princeton.
Things to Do
- •Visit Campbell Falls and Mash Fork Falls.
- •Hike or ride the 35-mile trail network in the park and forest.
- •Fish for stocked trout in Camp Creek and Mash Fork.
- •Picnic at the shelters beside the creek.
- •Camp in the wooded campground.
- •Watch for deer, wild turkey, and songbirds in the forest.
Hiking Trails
Campbell Falls Trail — a short, easy path to the base of Campbell Falls.
Mash Fork Falls Trail — a gentle walk to the second waterfall, often combined with Campbell Falls.
Falls Loop / Millstone Trail — a moderate loop connecting the creeks, old mill sites, and forest roads.
Wilderness Trail — a longer backcountry route into the state forest for those wanting distance.
Equestrian and multi-use trails — the forest's wide network is open to hikers, bikers, and riders, with many miles to explore.

Camping & Lodging
Camp Creek has a wooded campground along the creek with roughly 35 sites, including electric and full-hookup options for RVs and tent pads for traditional campers. Amenities include restrooms with showers, a dump station, and a camp store. The state forest also offers more primitive sites for a quieter stay.
There are no cabins or lodge here. Travelers wanting a resort-style stay often overnight at Pipestem Resort State Park or in Bluefield, then visit Camp Creek as a day trip.
Fishing & Swimming
Camp Creek and Mash Fork are stocked with trout and also hold native brook trout in their upper reaches — a genuine draw for fly anglers. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required.
There is no designated swimming area. The creeks are shallow and rocky, best suited to wading and fishing rather than swimming; use caution after rain when water rises quickly.
Best Time to Visit & Directions
Spring is prime waterfall season, with high water and emerging wildflowers. Summer is best for camping and creek fishing, while fall brings superb hiking weather and color. Winter can be cold and quiet, with icy cascades.
From Bluefield, take US-19/Corridor Q or WV-71 to the Camp Creek area, then follow signs to the park entrance. The drive is about 20 minutes from Bluefield and 30 minutes from Princeton.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are the waterfalls from parking?+
Both Campbell Falls and Mash Fork Falls are reached by short walks of a few minutes to a quarter mile, though the footing can be slippery.
Can you swim at the falls?+
There is no designated swimming area. The pools are shallow and the rocks slick, so wading is best done with caution.
Is there a fee to visit?+
Day use is free. You pay only for camping or special permit uses in the state forest.
Are the trails open to mountain bikes?+
Many of the forest's multi-use trails welcome bikes and horses. Check current trail maps and respect seasonal closures.
Is the park near Interstate 77?+
Yes. Camp Creek is a short drive from I-77 and US-19, making it an easy stop on a southern West Virginia road trip.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent guide to West Virginia's state parks, mountain towns, trails, and waterfalls. We publish practical, first-hand trip planning for the Mountain State. Learn more about us.