Beckley Parks & Recreation

For West Virginia residents who love to explore our beautiful state in their RVs, finding a convenient and equipped spot in an urban setting can sometimes be a challenge. The Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground, often referred to as the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Campground due to its direct adjacency, offers a unique opportunity for RVers right in the heart of Beckley, WV. This campground serves as a practical base for touring local attractions and experiencing the history and culture of Southern West Virginia.

While this RV park aims to provide essential services, it's important for prospective visitors to set their expectations, particularly regarding on-site management and additional amenities. As a city-run campground, its primary focus is often on providing fundamental hook-ups for self-contained RVs. Reviews from fellow West Virginians suggest that while the physical infrastructure like paved sites, power, and water are functional, the level of daily maintenance and direct attendant presence can vary. It’s a place that has "too nice of an RV park to let go like this," hinting at its potential if more consistent care were invested.

Despite these observations, the campground's strategic location right behind the coal train museum and adjacent to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is an undeniable draw. It provides immediate access to one of West Virginia's most significant historical attractions. For those with larger rigs, navigating the entrance can be "challenging," especially in adverse weather or at night, requiring careful maneuvering. However, it is possible, and many large motorhomes have successfully managed it. So, if you're a West Virginian looking for a convenient, no-frills, full hook-up spot in Beckley to explore the local area, the Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground offers a viable option, especially for self-contained units.

The Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground is strategically located at 401 Adair St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA. This address places it directly within the larger New River Park complex, which also houses the renowned Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. This positioning makes it exceptionally convenient for visitors primarily interested in touring the mine and its associated museums and attractions.

From I-77 North or South, travelers should take exit 44. Turn East onto Route 3 (Harper Road) and travel approximately 1.5 miles. Then, turn left onto Ewart Avenue. The New River Park entrance will be on your right after about 0.25 miles. It's noted that the entrance to the RV park specifically can be "challenging," and better signage is needed. Visitors, especially those with larger rigs, might find the vertical entrance road difficult, particularly in the rain or dark, sometimes requiring 4x4 for heavier vehicles. Despite this, large motorhomes have been observed successfully navigating it.

The campground's urban location means it offers good accessibility to Beckley's amenities. You're close to shopping, dining, and other city services. However, this also means you're in a more developed area rather than a secluded natural setting. For those looking to tour the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, the immediate proximity is a significant advantage, allowing for easy walks to the attraction. Due to its unique entrance and potential for larger rigs, it’s often suggested that very large setups consider nearby National Park Service campgrounds as an alternative if the entrance proves too daunting.

• Paved RV Sites: The campground offers paved sites, providing a level and stable surface for RVs.

• Full Hook-ups: Each of the 17 sites provides full hook-ups, including 50 amp power, water, and sewage connections, essential for self-contained RVs.

• Trash Receptacles: Individual trash receptacles are available at each site for convenient waste disposal.

• Fire Rings: Sites typically include a fire pit, though these are described as a "ring of stones" and may contain ashes/cigarette butts, suggesting basic provision rather than meticulous maintenance.

• Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with a picnic table, though some may be "old and junky."

• Self-Contained Units Only: The campground primarily caters to self-contained RVs, as restroom facilities have been noted as closed (attributed to COVID, even in recent times).

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is open seasonally, typically from April 1 to November 1.

• Reservations Available: Reservations can be made, with registration occurring at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Gift Shop from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. A current/valid driver's license is required at registration.

• Tent Camping (Non-Residents Only): There is a grassy area with picnic tables, fire pit, and draw water for tent campers, but this is reserved for non-residents only. (Note: Other sources indicate tent camping may not be permitted due to closed restrooms for all). Always confirm current tent camping rules with management.

• Prime Location by Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: The most significant highlight is its direct adjacency to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Coal Train Museum, offering unparalleled access to this major historical attraction in West Virginia.

• Full Hook-up Sites: All 17 sites offer 50 amp power, water, and sewage, providing convenience for RVers who prefer full amenities.

• Paved Sites: The paved nature of the sites is a plus, offering a stable and clean surface for parking and setup.

• Big Rig Friendly (with caution): While the entrance can be challenging, the sites themselves can accommodate large motorhomes and rigs, making it an option for a variety of RV sizes.

• Urban Convenience: Being within Beckley provides easy access to city amenities, including shopping, dining, and other services, unlike more remote campgrounds.

• Access to New River Park Amenities: Guests are near other facilities within the New River Park, which might include playgrounds, picnic areas, and potentially other recreational options, depending on their operational status.

As a campground operated by Beckley Parks & Recreation, this facility typically focuses on providing a service at a set rate rather than offering frequent commercial promotions or special discounts in the traditional sense. The value proposition is in its direct access to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and its full hook-up RV sites within an urban setting.

Current pricing is publicly listed as $35.00 per night, $210.00 per week, and $750.00 per month. These are the established rates for using the RV sites with their provided hook-ups. Any potential "special offers" might come in the form of these weekly or monthly rates, which offer a discount compared to staying on a nightly basis for extended periods.

Given the feedback about varying levels of maintenance and attendant presence, the "offer" here is primarily a functional, convenient place to stay with necessary hook-ups, particularly for those touring the Beckley area. It's recommended that prospective campers confirm current rates and any specific inclusions or exclusions directly with the Beckley Parks & Recreation Department or at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Gift Shop during registration. Seasonal variations or any unexpected operational changes (like the status of restrooms) should always be verified prior to arrival.

For reservations, inquiries, or to get the most up-to-date information regarding the Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground (Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Campground), you can use the following contact details:

Address: 401 Adair St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA (This is the general address for Beckley Parks & Recreation, which oversees the campground. The campground itself is within the New River Park complex.)

Phone: (304) 256-1747

Mobile Phone: +1 304-256-1747

Registration for the campground occurs at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Gift Shop between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. A valid driver's license is required. It's highly advisable to call ahead, especially if you have a large rig or are arriving late, to confirm current conditions, entrance directions, and availability. This will also allow you to inquire about the operational status of amenities like restrooms and any specific guidelines for your stay, ensuring a smoother experience at this Beckley, WV, campground.

For West Virginians, the Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground offers a distinctly practical and conveniently located option for RV camping, especially for those looking to explore the rich history and attractions of Beckley and the surrounding region. Its primary suitability for locals lies in its unique urban placement and direct access to one of our state's most iconic historical sites: the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.

If you're a local RVer passing through Southern West Virginia, or specifically planning a visit to the Coal Mine, this campground provides the essential full hook-ups (power, water, sewer) that many self-contained rigs require, right on site. This eliminates the need to travel far after a day of sightseeing. While the amenities may be basic and the general maintenance sometimes lacking the polish of a private resort, the sheer convenience of having paved, serviceable sites within walking distance of such a significant historical landmark is a major draw for residents. The challenge of the entrance, while noted, is also a detail that many seasoned West Virginia RVers are accustomed to navigating in our diverse terrain.

Ultimately, for West Virginians who prioritize location and basic, reliable hook-ups for a short stay centered around local exploration, the Beckley Parks & Recreation Campground serves its purpose. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in Beckley's heritage without having to venture far from your home-on-wheels, making it a functional and valuable stop for our state's adventurous residents.