Laurel Fork Campground
4.567 reviewsLaurel Fork Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Reservation fees vary by method: $8 if made online or via app; $9 through the contact center; $3 for in-person reservations. Additional fees for changes ($10) or cancellations ($10) apply.
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About this campground
Tucked away along the pristine waters of the Laurel Fork River, this remote campground offers an authentic wilderness experience between two stunning protected areas. Laurel Fork Campground serves as your gateway to the untamed beauty of the Middle Mountain region, where primitive camping meets rich history. Step directly from your tent onto scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, all while camping on grounds that once housed Depression-era conservation workers who helped shape these very wilderness areas.
Laurel Fork Campground is a primitive camping area, offering a rustic experience. It is ideally suited for day hikers and backpackers who wish to explore the adjacent wilderness areas.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this former Civilian Conservation Corps camp, where young men once labored to preserve America's natural heritage during the Great Depression. The echoes of their work remain visible throughout the surrounding wilderness, from carefully constructed trails to restored forests that stand as living monuments to their dedication. This campground serves as both a recreational destination and a tangible connection to the conservation movement that helped protect these mountains for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic mountain climate where crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons, and weather patterns shift like scenes in nature's theater. Throughout the year, temperatures swing dramatically between seasons, creating distinct camping experiences from the verdant explosion of spring to autumn's brilliant foliage display. Occasional light snow dustings in cooler months transform the landscape into a winter wonderland, while gentle rains nurture the lush forest canopy during warmer periods.
ElevationNestled in the mountain valleys of the Middle Mountain region, the campground offers a perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babbling of the Laurel Fork River provides a constant natural soundtrack to your camping experience, its crystal-clear waters winding through a landscape of emerald forests and moss-covered boulders. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead, while the surrounding wilderness areas ensure uninterrupted vistas of pristine mountain scenery. Visitors consistently marvel at the creek's serene beauty, describing it as a peaceful sanctuary where time seems to slow down and nature's rhythms take precedence.
Geological RegionStrategically positioned in the heart of the Middle Mountain region, the campground sits at the convergence of natural wonders—flanked by the Laurel Fork North and South Wilderness areas. This unique location along the Laurel Fork River places you at the intersection of diverse ecosystems, where mountain streams have carved their ancient paths through folded ridges and valleys, creating a geological tapestry that tells the story of millions of years of natural forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about accessibility features is not explicitly provided; the campground is described as being primitive, which may limit accessibility.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not specified, but the campground is described as a primitive area likely best suited for tents or small setups.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest a mix of privacy levels, with some sites offering seclusion and others described as less private due to RVs and generators.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Details about group camping are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through the Recreation.gov website and contact center. Some fees apply depending on the reservation method.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites must be occupied within 30 minutes of arrival; it operates as a self-pay campground with first-come, first-served policies.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fees for cancellations made after 12:00am local time the day before the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, primarily focused on hiking and backpacking. It is situated near the Laurel Fork North and South Wilderness areas, providing access to lightly used trails. Visitors have also mentioned the peaceful creek running through the campground, which adds to the natural charm.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, with access to trails in the Laurel Fork North and South Wilderness areas. User reviews highlight the trails as lightly used, making them suitable for beginners.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities such as snowshoeing or ice fishing are not mentioned.Water Sports
No information on water-based activities such as kayaking or canoeing is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsOne reviewer noted conflicts over campsite occupancy policies, which could lead to confrontational scenarios.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available at the trailhead.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along the Laurel Fork River, providing proximity to a creek that runs through the area.
Common complaints"Quiet, secluded. Now it's full of RV's and generators that run all night long"; "Was verbally attacked and threatened over a site that had been vacant for 24 hours."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Elkins, WV: Follow Highway 33 east approximately 16 miles to Wymer. Turn south on the Middle Mountain road (Forest Road 14). Travel 11 miles to the junction of Forest Road 423. Take Forest Road 423 east for approximately 1 1/2 miles.
The campground is accessible via Forest Road 14 and Forest Road 423. These are likely unpaved routes typical of forest service roads, but explicit details on road quality are not provided.Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Laurel Fork Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives an overall positive sentiment, with users appreciating its natural beauty, peacefulness, and proximity to trails. Some reviewers, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the presence of RVs and noise from generators.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's well-kept facilities, clean vaulted toilets, and the serene setting by the creek. Many appreciated the lightly used trails and the opportunity for making lasting...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users were unhappy with the presence of RVs and generators, which they felt disrupted the peaceful atmosphere. Issues with the 'first-come, first-served' system and site occupancy policies also...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future visitors are advised to arrive early due to the first-come, first-served policy. Backpackers may find the lightly used trails ideal for beginners.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers are popular for outdoor activities, but weekends may see more crowding and generators. The peacefulness of the creek and lightly used trails make it a year-round destination for solitude...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This used to be a great place to get away. Quiet, secluded. Now it’s full of RV’s and generators that run all night long.' (Laura Merritt)
2. 'The campground is always well kept. We enjoy making...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers or reviews highlighting particular sites within the campground are not provided.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews discussing pet policies or experiences are not provided.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025