Camping & RV
6 Best RV Campgrounds Near Beckley WV: Your Guide to Camping in Southern West Virginia
If you're searching for the best RV campgrounds near Beckley WV
, you'll find plenty of excellent places to park your camper, relax in the mountains, and explore the natural beauty of southern West Virginia. Whether you're traveling in a luxury motorhome, pulling a fifth wheel, or enjoying a weekend getaway in a travel trailer, the Beckley area offers camping opportunities for nearly every type of RV traveler.
Located in the heart of Raleigh County, Beckley is an ideal starting point for exploring the mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and outdoor attractions that make West Virginia a popular camping destination.
One of the biggest advantages of staying at RV campgrounds near Beckley WV is the convenient access to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, one of America's most spectacular outdoor destinations. Visitors can spend their days hiking, fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery before returning to a comfortable campsite.
Below are six of the top RV campgrounds near Beckley WV, selected for their locations, amenities, outdoor recreation opportunities, and convenience.

Quick Info
- Base city:
- Beckley, WV (Raleigh County)
- Featured parks:
- 6 RV campgrounds
- Hookups:
- Full and partial available
- Best season:
- Late spring through fall
- Nearby:
- New River Gorge National Park
- Ideal for:
- Families, couples, adventure travelers
1. Lake Stephens Campground – Best for Families
Beckley, WV · Approximately 5–10 miles from downtown
Located just outside downtown Beckley, Lake Stephens Campground is one of the most convenient RV campgrounds near Beckley WV. Operated by the Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Authority, this popular campground offers 100 RV campsites with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer connections.
Campers can enjoy restroom and shower facilities, laundry services, picnic tables, and pull-through sites. The surrounding Lake Stephens recreation area features swimming, fishing, boating, and other family-friendly activities. During the summer, the lake's beach and water attractions make this destination especially popular with families.
The RV campground generally operates from May 1 through October 31.
Best for: Families, weekend camping trips, and RV travelers wanting full hookups near Beckley. Website: Lake Stephens RV Campground.

2. Little Beaver State Park – Best for Nature Lovers
Beaver, WV · Approximately 6–10 miles
Little Beaver State Park is another excellent choice for travelers researching RV campgrounds near Beckley WV. Located near Beaver, this beautiful state park offers a peaceful mountain setting with wooded campsites, hiking trails, and a scenic lake.
The campground features 46 campsites, including 30 with electric and water hookups and 16 with water connections. A central dump station is available, although individual sewer hookups are not provided.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, and relaxing beside the lake. Little Beaver is especially appealing to campers who want to experience West Virginia's natural beauty without traveling far from restaurants, grocery stores, and other conveniences in Beckley.
Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and campers seeking a quiet state park atmosphere. Website: Little Beaver State Park.

3. Shady Rest RV Park – Best for Budget-Friendly Camping
Shady Spring, WV · Approximately 10 miles
If you're looking for affordable RV campgrounds near Beckley WV, Shady Rest RV Park in Shady Spring deserves consideration. This smaller, privately operated campground offers a quiet country atmosphere while remaining within a convenient drive of Beckley and the southern portion of New River Gorge National Park.
The park has approximately 23 full-hookup RV sites, with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service available. Additional amenities advertised include wireless internet, picnic tables, pet-friendly areas, and options for extended stays.
Shady Rest is particularly appealing to RV owners who prefer a simple campground rather than a large resort with numerous recreational facilities. Its location also makes it convenient for exploring nearby hiking trails, fishing destinations, and the New River.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, longer stays, and campers wanting a peaceful setting. Location: 650 Cloverdale Rd, Shady Spring, WV 25918.

4. Eagle's Nest Campground – Best for Convenient Mountain Camping
Glen Jean, WV · Approximately 10–15 miles
Located in Glen Jean, Eagle's Nest Campground provides another practical option for visitors exploring southern West Virginia. The campground is near the Summit Bechtel Reserve and within driving distance of several popular New River Gorge attractions.
RV travelers can find hookup accommodations in a quiet setting, making the property suitable for both overnight stops and longer visits. Its location between Beckley and Fayetteville offers convenient access to shopping, restaurants, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.
Campers interested in visiting the New River Gorge Bridge or participating in whitewater rafting excursions may appreciate staying in this area. Unlike large RV resorts, Eagle's Nest appeals to travelers who prioritize a convenient campsite and access to surrounding attractions.
Best for: Travelers visiting New River Gorge, short stays, and outdoor enthusiasts. Location: 500 Wood Mountain Rd, Glen Jean, WV 25846.

5. Rifrafters Campground – Best for New River Gorge Adventures
Fayetteville, WV · Approximately 18–25 miles
Rifrafters Campground is one of the most appealing RV campgrounds near Beckley WV for travelers planning an adventure-filled vacation. Located near Fayetteville, this campground provides convenient access to the New River Gorge Bridge, hiking trails, rock climbing destinations, and whitewater rafting outfitters.
Rifrafters accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RVs, tents, and rustic cabins. RV accommodations include full-hookup sites as well as sites with water and electricity. Some spaces can accommodate larger recreational vehicles.
After spending the day exploring the national park, visitors can return to their campsite and enjoy the wooded surroundings. Fayetteville also offers restaurants, local shops, and outdoor recreation businesses.
Best for: Whitewater rafting enthusiasts, hikers, rock climbers, and families visiting New River Gorge. Location: 448 Laurel Creek Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840.

6. Babcock State Park Campground – Best for Scenic Mountain Camping
Clifftop, WV · Approximately 20–30 miles
Babcock State Park is one of West Virginia's most photographed destinations and an excellent option for RV travelers who enjoy spectacular mountain scenery. Located near Clifftop, the park is famous for the historic-looking Glade Creek Grist Mill, a favorite photography destination surrounded by beautiful forests.
The campground offers developed campsites, including electric-site options, making it suitable for many travel trailers and motorhomes. Visitors can spend their days hiking, fishing, exploring scenic overlooks, and photographing the mill.
Fall is particularly beautiful when the surrounding mountains transform into brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. For travelers researching RV campgrounds near Beckley WV, Babcock provides an opportunity to combine traditional camping with some of the state's most memorable scenery.
Best for: Photographers, couples, hikers, and fall foliage enthusiasts. Website: Babcock State Park.

Map of the Best RV Campgrounds Near Beckley WV
Use this map to compare the locations of the six featured campgrounds and plan your RV camping adventure.
Best Time of Year for RV Camping Near Beckley
Most RV campgrounds near Beckley WV are particularly enjoyable from late spring through fall. Summer brings warm weather and opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and outdoor recreation. Families often prefer June, July, and August because school vacations make longer camping trips possible.
September and October are excellent months for visitors who enjoy cooler temperatures and colorful mountain scenery. Fall is also popular because of West Virginia's spectacular foliage, especially around New River Gorge and Babcock State Park. See our West Virginia fall festivals guide for seasonal events.
Campers visiting during October should plan ahead, particularly around Bridge Day, when thousands of visitors travel to the New River Gorge Bridge. Winter camping opportunities are more limited because some campgrounds close seasonally.

Things to Do While RV Camping Near Beckley WV
One of the biggest benefits of choosing RV campgrounds near Beckley WV is the variety of attractions within driving distance.
- •New River Gorge National Park: Explore hiking trails, scenic overlooks, rafting opportunities, and the famous New River Gorge Bridge.
- •Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Discover southern West Virginia's coal mining history through underground mine tours and exhibits at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.
- •Grandview: Enjoy dramatic views of the New River Gorge and access scenic hiking trails.
- •Tamarack Marketplace: Shop for West Virginia-made crafts, artwork, specialty foods, and gifts.
- •Little Beaver State Park: Spend an afternoon fishing, hiking, or enjoying the peaceful lake.
- •Babcock State Park: Photograph the Glade Creek Grist Mill and explore beautiful mountain trails.
These attractions make Beckley an excellent base for travelers who want more than just a place to park their RV. For a broader list, see our West Virginia things to do and free things to do guides.
Tips for Choosing RV Campgrounds Near Beckley WV
Before reserving a campsite, consider your RV's length, electrical requirements, and the amenities your family needs. Some campgrounds offer full hookups, while others provide only electricity and water. State park campsites may require using a central dump station.
Mountain roads can also present challenges for larger motorhomes and fifth wheels. Always confirm your route and campsite dimensions before traveling. The National Park Service specifically advises against taking large RVs into its primitive New River Gorge campgrounds, where roads and sites may be unsuitable.
Finally, book early when possible. Summer weekends and fall foliage season can attract large numbers of visitors. For more general advice, see our West Virginia camping and Pipestem camping guides.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best RV Campgrounds Near Beckley WV
Whether you're planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or an extended trip through southern West Virginia, there are excellent RV campgrounds near Beckley WV to fit your travel style. Lake Stephens is a strong choice for families wanting full hookups and recreational activities. Little Beaver State Park offers peaceful camping surrounded by nature, while Shady Rest provides a practical option for budget-conscious travelers.
For outdoor adventures, Eagle's Nest and Rifrafters offer convenient access to the New River Gorge region. Babcock State Park is an outstanding destination for campers who appreciate mountain scenery.
With beautiful landscapes, outdoor recreation, and convenient access to local attractions, the Beckley area is a wonderful place to experience RV camping in West Virginia. Start planning your trip today—and pair it with a weekend trip or road trip through the Mountain State.

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