Blackwater Falls State Park West Virginia (WV) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Blackwater Falls State Park is a fantastic destination for RV camping due to its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse range of recreational activities. The park’s name comes from the falls of the Blackwater River, which plunges five stories before continuing its path through an eight-mile-long gorge. The park has a storied past, with Native American tribes, early settlers, and the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) all contributing to its cultural significance.

The unique geology of the park has created some truly breathtaking natural occurrences. The amber-colored waters of the Blackwater River are a result of tannic acid from decaying plant material. The falls themselves are a sight to behold, with the roaring water creating a mist that often results in vivid rainbows.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Blackwater Falls State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Blackwater Falls State Park.

RV Rentals in Blackwater Falls State Park

Transportation

Visitors to Blackwater Falls State Park have several transportation options with private vehicles being the most common. The park has multiple entrances each with its own parking area. RV renters should be aware that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 40 feet. Additionally some roads within the park have low clearance so it’s important to check the park’s website for specific guidance on RV travel.

RV parking is available in designated areas throughout the park with overnight parking permitted in designated campsites only. Blackwater Falls State Park offers RV camping options allowing visitors to explore the park using alternative transportation methods.

Visitors can take advantage of the park’s walking paths and shuttle bus services for convenient transportation within the park. The shuttle buses operate during peak seasons offering a hassle-free way to discover the park’s attractions.

Top Campsites in Blackwater Falls State Park

If you’re planning a camping trip to Blackwater Falls State Park you’ll want to make sure you have a spot reserved at one of the most popular campsites. Here are the top 4 campsites that require reservations listed in order of popularity

Blackwater Falls State Park Campground

This is the largest campground in the park with 65 sites available for reservation. It’s located near the park’s main entrance and offers easy access to hiking trails the lake and the falls. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to bathhouses with hot showers. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April through October. RVs up to 40 feet are permitted.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground

Located just 20 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park this campground offers 34 sites for reservation. It’s situated in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains and forests. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to bathhouses with hot showers. The campground is pet-friendly and open from May through October. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted.

Seneca Shadows Campground

This campground is located just 10 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park and offers 30 sites for reservation. It’s situated along the Seneca Creek and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to bathhouses with hot showers. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April through October. RVs up to 35 feet are permitted.

Twin Falls Resort State Park Campground

Located about 30 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park this campground offers 50 sites for reservation. It’s situated in a beautiful forested area and offers easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to bathhouses with hot showers. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April through October. RVs up to 40 feet are permitted.

If you’re unable to make a reservation at one of the popular campsites in Blackwater Falls State Park there are still plenty of options for first-come-first-served camping. Here are 3 campgrounds that don’t require reservations

Pendleton Campground

This campground offers 12 sites on a first-come-first-served basis. It’s located near the Blackwater River and offers easy access to fishing and hiking trails. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to a vault toilet. Pets are permitted but there are no hookups or showers available. The campground is open from April through October.

Potomac State Forest Campground

Located just 15 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park this campground offers 33 sites on a first-come-first-served basis. It’s situated in a beautiful forested area and offers easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to vault toilets. Pets are permitted but there are no hookups or showers available. The campground is open from April through December.

Coopers Rock State Forest Campground

Located about an hour from Blackwater Falls State Park this campground offers 25 sites on a first-come-first-served basis. It’s situated in a beautiful forested area and offers easy access to hiking trails and rock climbing spots. Each site has a fire ring picnic table and access to vault toilets. Pets are permitted but there are no hookups or showers available. The campground is open from April through December.

If you’re still unable to find a spot at one of the campgrounds in or near Blackwater Falls State Park there are alternative camping options nearby. Here are a few private campgrounds and backcountry camping options to consider

Alpine Lake Resort

This private campground is located about 30 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park and offers 230 sites for RV and tent camping. It’s situated on a beautiful lake and offers plenty of amenities including a swimming pool hot tub mini golf and more. Pets are permitted and RVs up to 45 feet are allowed.

North Fork Mountain Inn

This inn offers a primitive campground for tent camping only located about an hour from Blackwater Falls State Park. It’s situated in a beautiful forested area and offers easy access to hiking trails and scenic views. Pets are permitted and there are no hookups or showers available.

Backcountry Camping

If you’re an experienced hiker and camper you may want to consider backcountry camping in the Monongahela National Forest. There are several trailheads that offer backcountry camping options including the Blackwater Canyon Trail and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. Be sure to check with the park rangers for any permits or regulations before setting out.

Hiking the Blackwater Falls Trail


Blackwater Falls State Park is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the country and hiking the Blackwater Falls Trail is a must-do for any outdoorsy RV camper. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and takes you to the base of the iconic Blackwater Falls where you can marvel at the powerful rush of water cascading over the rocks below. The trail is well-maintained and offers a moderate level of difficulty making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Biking through the Park


If you’re a fan of biking Blackwater Falls State Park has plenty of trails to explore. The park’s 10-mile bike trail takes you through dense forests over rolling hills and past scenic vistas. The trail is suitable for riders of all abilities and is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the park’s natural beauty.

Fishing in the Blackwater River


The Blackwater River is a prime spot for fishing and Blackwater Falls State Park has several fishing areas where you can cast a line. The river is home to a variety of fish species including trout bass and catfish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner fishing in the Blackwater River is a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend a day in the park.

Cycling on the Blackwater Canyon Trail


For a more challenging cycling experience check out the Blackwater Canyon Trail. This 10-mile trail takes you through the heart of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is steep and winding in places so it’s recommended for experienced cyclists only.

Exploring the Lindy Point Overlook


If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of the park head to the Lindy Point Overlook. The overlook offers sweeping views of the Blackwater Canyon and is the perfect spot for a picnic or a sunset photo. The trail to the overlook is short and easy making it accessible to hikers of all abilities.

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If you’re an RV camper who prefers less strenuous outdoor activities Blackwater Falls State Park has plenty to offer. Here are some alternative recreational options that are popular among RV campers who want to enjoy the park without breaking a sweat.

Sightseeing at Elakala Falls


Elakala Falls is a series of four waterfalls located in the heart of Blackwater Falls State Park. The falls are easily accessible via a short and easy trail making them a popular spot for sightseeing. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Nature Watching at the Pendleton Point Overlook


The Pendleton Point Overlook is a great spot for nature watching especially in the fall when the leaves change color. From the overlook you can see miles of rolling hills and forests as well as the Blackwater River below. The overlook is also a popular spot for bird watching with a variety of species frequenting the area.

Taking Photos at the Blackwater Falls Boardwalk


The Blackwater Falls Boardwalk offers some of the most iconic views of the park and is a popular spot for taking photos. The boardwalk takes you to the base of the falls where you can get up close and personal with the powerful rush of water. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and offers plenty of opportunities for taking Instagram-worthy photos.

Exploring the Canaan Valley Institute


The Canaan Valley Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting environmental education and conservation. The institute offers a variety of programs and activities including guided hikes nature walks and bird watching. It’s a great way to learn more about the park and its natural resources.

Visiting the Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge


The Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge is a cozy and rustic lodge located in the heart of the park. The lodge offers a variety of amenities including a restaurant gift shop and swimming pool. It’s a great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the park.

Season-specific experiences in Blackwater Falls State Park

During the spring season Blackwater Falls State Park offers an array of recreational activities that attract RV campers. The park’s iconic Blackwater Falls a 62-foot cascade that plunges into the Blackwater Canyon is a must-visit landmark. Visitors can hike the Gentle Trail an accessible trail that leads to an observation deck overlooking the falls. Another popular activity is trout fishing in the Blackwater River which is stocked with trout during the spring season. The park also hosts guided wildflower walks where visitors can learn about the park’s diverse flora including the rare pink lady’s slipper orchid. Lastly the park’s Pendleton Point Overlook offers breathtaking views of the Blackwater Canyon and is an ideal spot for birdwatching.

As the weather heats up summer in Blackwater Falls State Park provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Swimming at Pendleton Lake is a popular pastime with a sandy beach and designated swimming area. The lake is also ideal for boating with paddleboard kayak and canoe rentals available. For those seeking a challenge the park’s hiking trails offer varying degrees of difficulty from the 0.25-mile Lindy Point Trail to the strenuous 3.2-mile Elakala Trail. Horseback riding is another popular activity with guided tours available through the park’s stables. Lastly the park’s nature center offers educational programs and exhibits on the park’s wildlife and ecology.

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Blackwater Falls State Park and RV campers have plenty of recreational activities to choose from.

Hiking the Lindy Point Trail

This short trail leads to a stunning view of the Blackwater Canyon and the falls. The fall foliage makes it an especially scenic hike.

Visiting the Pendleton Point Overlook

This is another popular spot for taking in the views of the Blackwater Canyon. It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy a picnic.

Fishing in the Blackwater River

The river is stocked with trout making it a popular spot for anglers. Fall is the perfect time to catch brown trout.

Exploring the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife including deer black bears and wild turkeys. Fall is the perfect time to see the animals in their natural habitat.

Taking a scenic drive through the park

The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the fall foliage and the surrounding mountains.

Winter is a magical time at Blackwater Falls State Park. The snow-covered landscape provides a unique backdrop for winter activities.

Cross-country skiing

The park has over 10 miles of groomed trails for skiers of all levels. The trails offer beautiful views of the snow-covered trees and mountains.

Snowshoeing

If you prefer a more leisurely pace snowshoeing is a great way to explore the park. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the winter landscape.

Sledding

The park has a designated sledding area near the Blackwater Lodge. It’s a popular spot for families with young children.

Ice fishing

If you’re up for braving the cold ice fishing is a popular winter activity. The Blackwater River is stocked with trout making it a great spot for ice fishing.

Visiting the Blackwater Falls Sled Run

This 1 200-foot sled run is a thrilling ride for all ages. The sled run is open on weekends and holidays during the winter months.

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CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
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10% OFF RV Rental*