Brooklyn Campground

Welcome, West Virginia adventurers and nature lovers! If you're seeking a genuinely rustic and immersive outdoor experience right here in our "Wild and Wonderful" state, Brooklyn Campground in Fayetteville, WV, offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with the New River and its surrounding wilderness. Unlike more developed campgrounds, Brooklyn Campground provides a back-to-basics approach, perfect for those who appreciate raw natural beauty and a less structured camping environment. As local users, you understand the call of our mountains and rivers, and this campground allows for an unfiltered appreciation of our state's most iconic landscapes.

This article will provide an honest and informative overview of Brooklyn Campground, focusing on its distinct features, what amenities you can expect, and how its location serves as a gateway to the incredible New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. While it offers a unique charm, it's important to set expectations correctly, as its primitive nature means fewer traditional conveniences but an abundance of authentic outdoor immersion. We aim to equip you with all the factual information needed to decide if this one-of-a-kind spot is the right fit for your next West Virginia camping trip.

Brooklyn Campground is not for everyone, but for those who embrace simplicity and a deeper connection with nature, it promises a memorable experience. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the New River flowing by, with trains rumbling across the opposite bank and the vast expanse of the New River Gorge waiting to be explored. Let's delve into what makes Brooklyn Campground a distinctive choice for your local outdoor adventure.

Brooklyn Campground is situated at the Brooklyn-Southside Jct Trail, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA. This location places it directly on the banks of the New River, within the boundaries of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. For local West Virginia residents, its proximity to Fayetteville and the heart of the New River Gorge is a significant draw, offering direct access to one of the state's most celebrated natural attractions.

However, it's crucial to note that navigating to Brooklyn Campground can be a bit challenging. As some past visitors have reported, relying solely on GPS or Google Maps for directions might lead you astray, sometimes directing you to the opposite side of the river. The campground is best accessed by taking Gatewood Road to the Cunard turnoff, located between Oak Hill and Fayetteville. From there, you'll travel approximately 1.8 miles and then follow signs towards the Cunard River Access. Bear right through the boat launch parking lot and continue upstream for about a mile; the campsites will be on your left. It is highly recommended to use detailed directions or a reliable map, especially if arriving after dark, as there is no traditional check-in office or staff upon arrival.

The remote, yet riverfront, location provides a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, a definite plus for those seeking to unplug. Its direct adjacency to the New River and the Southside Trailhead means immediate access to fishing, hiking, and stunning river views. While it's in a somewhat remote setting, the iconic New River Gorge Bridge and the town of Fayetteville are relatively close by, offering access to supplies and services if needed, though campers should plan to be self-sufficient as stores are not immediately adjacent to the campground.

• Tent Camping Sites: Brooklyn Campground is primarily a tent-only campground, offering several sites specifically designed for tent camping.
• Limited RV Accessibility: There are some areas with electric hookups that resemble standard household outlets, but it's important to note that these are not traditional 30 or 50 amp RV hookups, which can limit the types of RVs that can comfortably utilize them. RV, camper, or car camping is generally prohibited at most sites, with only one specific handicap site allowing direct drive-up access for vehicles.
• Restroom Facilities: Clean pit toilets or similar basic restroom facilities are available. It has been noted that these restrooms are kept clean and do not have an odor, though they may lack sinks or other typical amenities found in more developed campgrounds.
• No Potable Water: Campers should be aware that potable drinking water is not typically available directly at the campsites. Visitors are strongly advised to bring their own supply of drinking water.
• No Check-in Booth: This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no formal check-in office or process. You simply arrive and choose an available site.
• Existing Fire Rings: Sites generally include existing fire rings for campfires, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfire experiences.
• Picnic Tables: Most sites come with picnic tables for convenience.
• Handicap Accessible Site: There is at least one designated handicap accessible site that allows direct vehicle access, providing an option for those with mobility challenges.

• Direct River Access and Views: The most significant highlight of Brooklyn Campground is its immediate proximity to the New River. Campers can enjoy beautiful river views directly from their sites and have easy access for fishing, exploring the banks, or simply relaxing by the water.
• Proximity to New River Gorge National Park: Being located within the National Park boundaries offers campers direct access to numerous hiking trails (like the Southside Trail), and it's a short drive to the New River Gorge Bridge and other major attractions within the park.
• Rustic and Primitive Experience: For those seeking a truly immersive outdoor adventure without many modern distractions, this campground provides an authentic primitive camping experience. It’s perfect for unplugging and enjoying nature as it is.
• First-Come, First-Served: The lack of a reservation system means spontaneous trips are possible, though it also means popular times might see sites fill up quickly.
• Train Spotting: A unique feature mentioned by visitors is the ability to watch trains pass on the opposite side of the river. While they can be loud, it adds a distinct character to the riverside setting.
• Clean, Basic Restrooms: Despite their simplicity (lacking sinks), the restrooms are noted for being clean and odor-free, which is a significant plus for primitive facilities.
• Walk-in Tent Sites: Many sites are walk-in, meaning a short walk from a nearby parking lot to the campsite. This adds to the secluded feel and quietude of the individual sites by the river.

As a primitive, first-come, first-served campground located within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Brooklyn Campground does not typically offer traditional promotions or special offers like discounts or package deals. Its operational model is generally based on minimal or no fees for use, adhering to National Park Service guidelines for primitive camping.

The primary "offer" of Brooklyn Campground is its unparalleled access to the New River Gorge's natural beauty at a minimal or no cost. Since there is no formal booking system or commercial operation, you won't find seasonal discounts, long-stay rates, or loyalty programs here.

Visitors should instead focus on what is provided free of charge by the National Park Service:

• Free Access: Camping is generally free of charge, as is common with many primitive sites within national parks.
• Natural Amenities: The true value lies in the direct access to the river, hiking trails, and the raw beauty of the New River Gorge.

It is always wise to check the official New River Gorge National Park and Preserve website (nps.gov/neri) for the most current information regarding any fees, regulations, or changes to access before planning your trip. Remember that while the camping itself might be free, you'll need to account for your own supplies, including firewood (which may not be available for purchase nearby during off-season) and drinking water.

Given that Brooklyn Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is a primitive site within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, there isn't a direct phone number specifically for Brooklyn Campground for reservations or inquiries. There is no traditional office or check-in staff.

For general information regarding camping within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, or to inquire about regulations, safety, and current conditions, you should contact the park service directly.

• Address: Brooklyn-Southside Jct Trail, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA (This is the physical location for navigation, but not a mailing address for direct contact.)
• For Park Information & Permits:
  • Phone: While no direct phone for Brooklyn Campground specifically, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Visitor Center can be reached for general park information. The main administrative phone number for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is generally (304) 465-0508. For group site permits or more specific camping inquiries within the park, the permit office can sometimes be reached at (304) 465-6517.
  • Website: For the most reliable and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to visit the official National Park Service website for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: https://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/camping.htm. This site will provide details on all primitive campgrounds, regulations, and any alerts.

Remember, since there's no staff on-site, campers should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies and knowledge of park regulations.

For West Virginia locals who truly cherish an authentic and rugged outdoor experience, Brooklyn Campground offers a unique and compelling option right in our own backyard. Situated directly on the New River within the iconic New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, this primitive campground is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves fully in the wild beauty of our state. Unlike more developed sites, Brooklyn Campground provides a no-frills, first-come, first-served approach that resonates with the independent spirit of West Virginians.

Its primary appeal lies in its unparalleled access to the New River for fishing, riverside relaxation, and the extensive network of hiking trails, including the popular Southside Trail. For local outdoor enthusiasts, this means less time driving and more time enjoying the natural wonders that define our home. The views of the river and the chance to witness trains passing by on the opposite bank add a distinctive, quintessentially Appalachian charm to your camping experience.

While the campground's primitive nature means fewer amenities—like the absence of traditional RV hookups or potable water at every site—it fosters a sense of self-reliance and adventure that many locals appreciate. The clean, albeit basic, restrooms are a testament to the efforts to maintain a comfortable environment even in a wild setting. This campground is perfect for locals seeking genuine solitude, direct engagement with the New River, and a chance to truly disconnect from the demands of modern life. It's a place where you can experience the New River Gorge at its most raw and beautiful, making it an excellent choice for a memorable, back-to-nature escape right here in West Virginia.

Brooklyn Campground

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