Bear Heaven Campground
4.6321 reviewsBear Heaven Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $5 per night, payable at the campground. Senior and Access passes are honored.
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About this campground
Tucked away 14 miles northeast of Elkins, West Virginia, Bear Heaven Campground offers an intimate escape into the wilderness along Forest Road 91. This hidden gem features just 8 primitive campsites, each thoughtfully positioned among dramatic rock outcroppings that create natural privacy screens between neighbors. As a gateway to the renowned Otter Creek Wilderness, this secluded retreat promises an authentic backcountry experience where the sounds of nature replace the buzz of civilization.
Bear Heaven Campground is a primitive camping area with no reservations, offering first-come, first-serve sites. It caters to tent campers and small groups looking for a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceAdventure seekers will discover more than just camping at Bear Heaven—a historic fire tower stands ready for exploration, offering those brave enough to climb it sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness. The area's distinctive rock formations have become beloved landmarks among locals and regular visitors, each boulder and outcropping holding stories of countless climbing adventures and quiet moments of discovery.
Weather and SeasonsOctober transforms Bear Heaven into a tranquil autumn sanctuary, where crisp mountain air and fewer crowds create the perfect conditions for those seeking solitude. The changing leaves paint the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, while the cooler temperatures keep fair-weather campers at bay. Winter brings its own magic, though adventurers should note that mountain road conditions typically render the campground inaccessible until late March, when spring's thaw reopens this high-altitude haven.
ElevationPerched high in the majestic Allegheny Mountains, Bear Heaven lives up to its celestial name, offering campers a true mountaintop experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and morning mists drift through the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle patter of rain on your tent in what visitors lovingly describe as a 'beautiful rainy forest on a mountain top.' The heavily wooded campsites provide a canopy of green that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Massive boulders and rock formations scattered throughout the area serve as natural playgrounds for climbers and explorers, while the surrounding wilderness creates a living backdrop of towering trees, moss-covered stones, and the endless symphony of mountain wildlife.
Geological RegionBear Heaven Campground sits proudly within the ancient Allegheny Mountains, serving as a perfect basecamp for exploring the adjacent Otter Creek Wilderness. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of natural artistry, where weathered rocks and mountain streams have carved out one of West Virginia's most treasured outdoor destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information available regarding accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as fairly spacious, with some sites offering unique features like rock outcroppings and tent pads.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are described as "fairly spread out," while others are noted as being "a little close together." This variation in seclusion is highlighted in user reviews.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 4 and 5 noted for their "huge rock outcropping" and exploration opportunities.
Best CampsitesSite 6 praised for its "awesome view" and rock formations.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are fairly spread out with decent privacy, but some reviewers found them "a little close together."
Open and Closed SeasonThe site is theoretically closed in the winter, but was not gated off.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; no reservations allowed.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability, with anecdotal evidence from reviews indicating it fills quickly on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable; no reservations allowed.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Heaven Campground offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring nearby wilderness areas. The Otter Creek Wilderness and Middle Point Trail #140, a 3.7-mile trail, are accessible from the campground. The area features unique rock formations and is noted for its tranquility.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity with access to the nearby Otter Creek Wilderness and Middle Point Trail #140, which is 3.7 miles long. Trails are described as varied, with options for both casual and challenging hikes. "Great access to Otter Creek hiking trails," mentioned one reviewer.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Stream fishing opportunities are available nearby, though specific details about the fish species are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in a heavily wooded area and is "thick with bears," as noted by one user. Wildlife sightings, including a bear, contribute to the wilderness experience.Winter Activities
The campground is theoretically closed in winter, but access may be possible as the entrance is not gated. Activities may include hiking and exploring in colder conditions.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire rules mentioned; fire rings present at campsites.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of bears noted by users; no potable water available, and campers must bring their own supply.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Elkins, WV, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingBearproof trash cans are provided for waste disposal, ensuring safety and cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresStream fishing available nearby.
Common complaints"Noisy neighbors," lack of potable water, and absence of quiet hours or on-site staff.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Elkins go east on State Highway 33 for approximately 11 miles, turn left on Forest Road 91 at the top of Shaver's Mountain. Follow Forest Road 91 for approximately 3 miles. Bear Heaven Campground will be on the left.
"A bit off the beaten path and located on a fairly bumpy gravel NFS road," according to user reviews. Users have noted that the drive up is "not too steep" but "does get a little tight in some spots."Nearby places
Elkins, WV is located approximately 12 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Elkins, WV, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
21 reviews
Bear Heaven Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bear Heaven Campground is highly rated for its serene environment, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to hiking trails. Commonly appreciated aspects include the cleanliness of the vault toilet and the unique rock formations near the sites. Complaints center on the lack of potable water, noisy neighbors, and limited privacy at certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very clean and well maintained," "peaceful and great views," and "accessible to great hiking trails" are some of the highlights. The $5 fee is also frequently praised as excellent value.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of potable water is a significant downside mentioned by multiple users. Noise disturbances from other campers and the absence of quiet hours or a campground host are also noted issues.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as there is none available on-site. Arrive early, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Be prepared for...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in the fall, as noted by users who appreciated the serenity and fewer campers during October. Winter access is possible but not guaranteed, as the road may be...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is my favorite campsite in this area and I almost always stay here when I go to Seneca Rocks," said one user. Another noted, "It's pretty far out of the way so nothing but the sounds of nature."
Based on 21 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 6 is highlighted for its "awesome view and rock formation right behind it." Sites 4 and 5 feature a "huge rock outcropping" that one user found fascinating. Some users noted that one site was...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025