War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground

For those of us in West Virginia who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude of the Appalachian Mountains, War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground offers a distinctive escape. Unlike many campgrounds nestled along rivers, this unique gem is situated atop a ridgetop, providing a different perspective of the stunning landscape within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the nights are filled with countless stars, and the sense of getting away from it all is genuinely palpable.

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is an ideal destination for West Virginians seeking a more primitive and undisturbed camping experience. Here, you won't find extensive amenities or bustling crowds. Instead, you'll discover a quiet, peaceful setting perfect for disconnecting from the everyday hustle. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, spending your days exploring nearby trails, and your evenings gathered around a campfire, gazing at a breathtaking night sky. It's a testament to West Virginia's "wild and wonderful" spirit, offering a chance to reconnect with the natural world in an authentic way.

Whether you're pitching a tent or bringing a smaller RV, this campground provides a serene base for exploring the surrounding beauty of the New River Gorge area. It's a location that promises tranquility and an immersive outdoor experience, inviting you to create lasting memories in the heart of our beloved Mountain State.

War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is situated in a unique ridgetop location within West Virginia 25976, USA, near Prince and Meadow Creek. This campground holds a distinction as the only one in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve that is not directly along the river. Its elevated position provides a different kind of natural beauty, with serene views and a distinct mountain atmosphere.

Accessing War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground requires navigating typical West Virginia mountain roads, which can be curvy and sometimes narrow. From Beckley, one common route involves taking Highway 41 to McCreery, crossing the river, and continuing towards Danese. From there, you'll turn right onto Backus Mountain Road, drive approximately 1.5 miles, and then turn right onto a gravel road (SR 22/7). The campground will be on your right about half a mile down this gravel road. While a mile of curvy mountain climb is mentioned by some visitors, even larger RVs (up to 30ft Class A) have successfully made the journey, though careful driving is always advised.

The journey itself, winding through the forested Appalachian landscape, contributes to the feeling of escaping into nature. This remote location ensures a quiet and undisturbed camping experience, far from the noise of major towns and cities. Given the mountain weather's unpredictable nature, which can be cooler and wetter than surrounding areas, campers should always be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. It's advisable to plan your arrival during daylight hours, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local roads, to ensure a smooth and safe trip to this secluded West Virginia gem.

• Primitive Drive-In Sites: The campground offers 8 drive-in sites suitable for tents, RVs, or campers. It's important to note that only small RVs or campers (less than 25 feet recommended) are advised due to access road conditions and site layouts. There are no pull-through campsites.

• No Hookups: This is a primitive campground, meaning there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites. Campers need to be self-sufficient regarding power and water supplies.

• No Drinking Water: Potable water is not available on-site. Campers must bring all their drinking water and water for other uses.

• Limited Restroom Facilities: The campground provides very basic restroom facilities, often described as port-a-johns. There are no flush toilets or showers.

• No Trash/Recycling Collection: Visitors are required to pack out all their trash, as there is no on-site trash or recycling collection. This reinforces the Leave No Trace principles essential for maintaining the campground's natural beauty.

• Fire Rings: Existing fire rings are available at campsites. Campers are permitted to burn only dead wood found on the ground, and damaging or cutting down trees for firewood is strictly prohibited.

• Pets Allowed: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join in on the outdoor adventure.

• Unique Ridgetop Location: Unlike other campgrounds in the New River Gorge, War Ridge/Backus Mountain is situated on a ridgetop near Backus Mountain, offering distinct views and a different environmental experience compared to riverside sites. This elevated position often means cooler temperatures and a unique perspective of the surrounding forests.

• Stunning Night Skies: With minimal light pollution, the campground is renowned for its incredible night skies, making it a prime spot for stargazing. Many visitors highlight the amazing views of the constellations and Milky Way.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently describe the campground as quiet and peaceful, providing a true escape from noise and crowds. It's ideal for those seeking solitude and tranquility in nature.

• Primitive and Authentic Camping: For campers who prefer a back-to-basics experience, War Ridge/Backus Mountain delivers. The lack of extensive amenities means you rely more on your own resources and skills, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment.

• Good Cell Service: Despite its remote location, some campers have reported having cell service (e.g., AT&T signal), which can be a reassuring feature for safety or occasional communication while still feeling immersed in nature.

• Spontaneous Adventures Welcome: Camping fees are waived, and reservations are not accepted, with sites managed on a first-come, first-served basis. This makes it an ideal destination for spontaneous road trips and last-minute getaways without the need for advance planning.

• Proximity to Hunting Areas and Trails: The campground is close to hunting areas and offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the scenic New River Gorge, providing a base for various outdoor activities.

As a primitive campground managed by the National Park Service within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The value it provides is inherent in its natural setting and the unique, free camping experience.

A significant "offer" of this campground is that there are no fees for camping. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not required or accepted. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for spontaneous trips and budget-conscious campers looking to experience the beauty of West Virginia without added cost.

Any updates on the campground's status, guidelines, or potential temporary closures would be communicated through the official National Park Service website for New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. It's always advisable to check their official resources before your visit for the most current information. The "promotion" here is truly the unadulterated, free access to a stunning natural setting, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the wild and wonderful outdoors of their home state.

As War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground is a primitive, free, first-come, first-served site within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, there isn't a direct campground office or dedicated phone line for it specifically. For general inquiries about the campground, its status, or the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as a whole, it's best to contact the National Park Service's main information line for the park.

The general contact information for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which oversees War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground, is:

Address: West Virginia 25976, USA (This is a general zip code for the area; a more specific physical address for inquiries or mail is typically a park visitor center or headquarters, such as P.O. Box 246, 104 Main Street, Glen Jean, WV 25846).

Phone: (304) 465-0508

You can also typically find information and park alerts on the official National Park Service website for New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Calling the provided phone number will connect you to a ranger or park representative who can offer the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding road conditions, campground availability, regulations, and any other pertinent information for your visit to War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground.

For West Virginians, War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground offers a quintessential Mountain State experience that truly embodies the "wild and wonderful" ethos. It's a place perfectly suited for locals who crave an authentic, no-frills outdoor adventure and a deep connection with the natural world without having to travel too far from home. This campground speaks to the heart of what it means to live in West Virginia: rugged beauty, peaceful solitude, and unparalleled access to nature's grandeur.

If you're a local seeking to escape the everyday, this ridgetop retreat provides the ideal setting. Its primitive nature means you're not paying for amenities you don't need, making it a fantastic, free resource for West Virginia residents. The quiet atmosphere, stunning night skies, and opportunities for spontaneous trips make it incredibly appealing. Whether you're looking to hike nearby trails, enjoy a serene camping trip with loved ones, or simply stargaze in unparalleled clarity, War Ridge/Backus Mountain Campground delivers an experience that is both accessible and profoundly rewarding. It encourages self-reliance and fosters a deeper appreciation for the unspoiled landscapes that define our state. For those who understand and cherish the wild heart of West Virginia, this campground is not just a place to stay; it's a perfect reflection of home.