West Virginia is a playground for RVers seeking dramatic mountain views, deep river gorges, and dense hardwood forests.
Navigating the Mountain State in a rig offers an up-close look at Appalachian wilderness, but tight mountain curves and steep elevation changes require a solid plan.
Whether you're steering a 40-foot Class A motorhome or towing a compact travel trailer, these iconic drives and prime campgrounds make for an unforgettable mountain road trip.
Iconic RV Routes in the Mountain State
1. The Highland Scenic Byway (Route 150)
- Route: Richwood to Route 219 (Pocahontas County)
- Best For: High-elevation vistas, fall foliage, and peaceful mountain driving.
- The Drive: Climbing above 4,500 feet into the Monongahela National Forest, this 43-mile corridor includes dramatic overlooks like Northern Ridge and Williams River.
- RV Advisory: Grades reach up to 9%. Ensure your brakes and transmission cooling systems are in top condition before making the climb, and take advantage of scenic pullouts to let faster traffic pass.
2. US-19 & The New River Gorge Loop
- Route: Fayetteville to Beckley via US-19 and Route 60
- Best For: Whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and massive structural architecture.
- The Drive: Anchored by the famous 876-foot-high New River Gorge Bridge, this route connects small mountain towns with America’s newest national park. US-19 is a smooth four-lane highway, making it one of the most big-rig-friendly corridors in southern West Virginia.
3. Route 32 & The Allegheny Highlands
- Route: Thomas to Harman through Canaan Valley
- Best For: Waterfall chasing, mountain towns, and cool summer temperatures.
- The Drive: Stretching across the High Alleghenies, this route cuts through Canaan Valley—the highest mountain valley east of the Mississippi. You'll pass through historic timber towns like Thomas and Davis while staying close to two major state parks.
Prime Campgrounds & Basecamps
Finding the right campsite depends on your rig's size and your preferred level of hookups. West Virginia offers everything from full-service luxury resorts to tranquil national forest sites.
Pipestem Resort State Park
- Location: Pipestem, WV
- Amenities: Full hookups (50/30 amp), paved sites, splash park, golf, zipline
- Ideal For: Families wanting resort-style amenities
Summersville Lake Retreat
- Location: Mount Nebo, WV
- Amenities: Full hookups, boat rentals, lighthouse tours, lake access
- Ideal For: Water sports, fishing, and big rigs
Blackwater Falls State Park
- Location: Davis, WV
- Amenities: Electric hookups, dump station, bathhouses, trail access
- Ideal For: Hikers, nature lovers, and fall foliage seekers
Adventures on the Gorge
- Location: Fayetteville, WV
- Amenities: Water & electric options, pool, restaurants, guided rafting tours
- Ideal For: Thrill-seekers and New River Gorge explorers
Spruce Knob Lake Campground
- Location: Riverton, WV
- Amenities: Semi-primitive / electric, high-elevation lake access
- Ideal For: Stargazing near the state's highest peak
Essential Tips for RVing in West Virginia
Check Mountain Passes Early: Many secondary roads in West Virginia feature switchbacks with 10%+ grades and narrow shoulders. If you are towing a long trailer or driving a Class A rig, stick to major routes like I-64, I-77, I-81, and US-19 whenever possible.
Book Peak Seasons Early: Summer weekends and autumn leaf-peeping season (mid-September through October) sell out months in advance across the state park system.
Leveling Gear is Mandatory: Appalachian topography means even paved campsites often sit on slight inclines. Bring heavy-duty leveling blocks and wheel chocks.
Prepare for Limited Cell Service: Deep gorges and dense timber can block cellular signals. Download offline maps and campsite details before heading off the main interstates.
Before you buy or go: specs, prices and road conditions change. Confirm with the manufacturer or dealer, check your tow and payload ratings, and check road status before heading out.
