Brooklyn Campground

For us West Virginians who truly appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of our state, Brooklyn Campground in Fayetteville offers a distinct kind of outdoor experience. This isn’t your typical manicured RV park with all the bells and whistles; it’s a more rugged, primitive campground designed for those who seek a direct, unmediated connection with nature. Situated within the iconic New River Gorge area, Brooklyn Campground provides a unique opportunity to camp right by the river, offering a no-frills adventure that many locals cherish for its authenticity and accessibility. If you're a West Virginian looking for a genuine, rustic camping trip with stunning river views and a chance to truly unplug, this might just be your next favorite spot.

Brooklyn Campground caters to a specific type of camper: one who values proximity to natural wonders and is prepared for a more basic setup. It's a place where the sounds of the New River become your soundtrack and the passing trains on the opposite bank add a unique character to your stay. While it offers a more minimalist approach to camping, its prime location allows for easy access to the extensive outdoor activities that make the New River Gorge a world-renowned destination. From hiking trails that wind through ancient forests to opportunities for fishing in the mighty New River, this campground serves as a launching point for countless adventures. It’s a testament to the diverse camping experiences available right here in our wild and wonderful West Virginia, appealing to those who prefer simplicity and direct immersion in the great outdoors.

Brooklyn Campground is nestled along the picturesque banks of the New River, with its official address listed as Brooklyn-Southside Jct Trail, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA. This location places it squarely within the breathtaking landscape of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. For locals, finding it can sometimes be a bit of an adventure in itself. As one review notes, relying solely on Google Maps might lead you astray, potentially to the opposite side of the river. It's important to approach with careful attention to signs and perhaps consult a park map in addition to GPS.

To reach Brooklyn Campground, you’ll typically need to navigate via the Cunard area of the New River Gorge. From major routes like US-19, you would turn onto WV-16 (towards Fayetteville), then take Gatewood Road. From Gatewood Road, you'll turn onto the access road for Cunard, which leads down towards the river. The campground is situated along the Brooklyn-Southside Junction Trail, which runs parallel to the river. While the drive can be somewhat remote and involve less-traveled roads, the reward is a truly secluded riverfront camping experience. Its proximity to Fayetteville, a hub for outdoor recreation and dining, means that while the campground feels isolated, essential services and popular attractions like the New River Gorge Bridge are still relatively accessible by car. This balance of seclusion and convenience makes it an intriguing option for West Virginians seeking both peace and adventure.

Services Offered:

• Tent-Focused Sites: Brooklyn Campground is primarily designed for tent camping. There are designated walk-in sites by the river (approximately 10-50 yards from parking) and one handicap accessible site that allows direct vehicle access.
• Basic Electric Hookups (Limited): Some RV lanes in the parking lot have electric hookups, but it's crucial to note these are not traditional 30 or 50 amp RV hookups. They are standard household-style outlets, which may require adapters for most RVs.
• Pit Toilets: Restroom facilities consist of pit toilets. While they lack sinks, reviews mention they are clean and well-maintained with no unpleasant odors.
• No Potable Water: There is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking water.
• No Shower Facilities: As a primitive campground, showers are not available on-site.
• No Check-in Booth or Reservation System: You simply arrive and pick a site, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Campfire Rings: Each campsite likely includes a fire ring for campfires, though firewood is not sold on-site and must be brought in.
• Limited Services: Campers should be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no dump stations, laundry facilities, or typical campground office services.

Features / Highlights:

• Direct River Access: Enjoy camping right on the banks of the New River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the river sounds.
• Views of Passing Trains: A unique highlight for many campers is watching the trains pass on the opposite side of the river. While they can be loud, they do not use their whistles at night at this location, adding a distinct ambiance.
• Secluded and Primitive Atmosphere: Ideal for those seeking a true wilderness experience away from crowded campgrounds, offering a quiet and serene environment.
• Proximity to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Located within the boundaries of the National Park, providing easy access to extensive hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge.
• Walk-in Sites: The unique walk-in sites by the river offer a more intimate and less vehicle-dominated camping experience.
• Free Camping: As a National Park Service campground, Brooklyn Campground is typically free to use, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option for exploring the area.
• Handicap Accessible Site: The presence of at least one handicap-accessible site that allows direct vehicle access is a thoughtful inclusion.
• Wildlife Observation: The natural setting provides opportunities for observing local wildlife.

As a primitive, first-come, first-served campground operated by the National Park Service, Brooklyn Campground does not typically offer traditional promotions or special offers like those found at private campgrounds. Access to the campground is generally free of charge. There are no reservation systems, and therefore no discounts for booking in advance or for extended stays.

It’s important for campers to note that because there is no check-in, special offers or negotiated rates are not applicable here. The value of Brooklyn Campground comes from its unparalleled location within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, its direct river access, and the unique, rustic camping experience it provides at no cost. For any general inquiries related to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, it is best to contact the main park office, as there is no direct contact number for the primitive Brooklyn Campground itself.

For specific details or general inquiries related to Brooklyn Campground within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, direct contact information for the campground itself is not available due to its primitive, non-reservable nature. However, for broader questions about the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, you can contact the park headquarters.

Address: Brooklyn-Southside Jct Trail, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA

For general inquiries about New River Gorge National Park and Preserve (not directly for the campground):

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV 25846

Phone: (304) 465-0508 (New River Gorge National Park Service Contact)

It is highly recommended to consult the National Park Service website for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve for the most up-to-date information regarding campground conditions, alerts, and detailed directions.

Brooklyn Campground is a uniquely suitable option for locals in West Virginia who are seeking an authentic and adventurous outdoor experience without straying far from home. For us West Virginians, this campground isn't just a place to stay; it's an accessible immersion into the heart of our state's most iconic natural landscape, the New River Gorge. Its primitive nature, with no frills and a first-come, first-served policy, caters to those who appreciate simplicity and a genuine connection to the wild.

While some reviews highlight potential issues like late-night activity and train noise, these aspects can also be viewed through a lens of authenticity for a certain type of local camper. The occasional train passing by is a characteristic sound of our region, and for many, it adds to the unique, rustic ambiance rather than detracting from it. The concern about safety and late-night traffic, as noted in reviews, is a valid point for any camper to consider and highlights the need for situational awareness. However, for those who are experienced in primitive camping and are drawn to the direct river access, the scenic beauty, and the free-of-charge entry, Brooklyn Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the New River Gorge without breaking the bank. It provides an immediate and raw West Virginia adventure, making it a valuable resource for locals who want to truly experience the "Wild and Wonderful" character of their home state.