Brooklyn Campground

For West Virginia locals who crave the raw beauty of our state's wilderness and a truly immersive outdoor experience, Brooklyn Campground offers a compelling and authentic escape. Nestled along the banks of the mighty New River, this campground provides a simpler, more rustic approach to camping, making it a perfect choice for those looking to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the calls of the wild truly define your stay.

Brooklyn Campground is distinct in its offerings, focusing on primitive, tent-only camping. This intentionally keeps the atmosphere quiet and ensures a genuine wilderness feel, appealing to adventurers, anglers, and families who prioritize natural beauty over extensive amenities. Imagine waking up to the mist rising from the New River, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, and the promise of a day filled with hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. This is the essence of what Brooklyn Campground provides.

While it's considered primitive, the campground's appeal lies in its unparalleled access to the New River and its proximity to the vast network of trails within the New River Gorge. It’s a base camp for exploration, a quiet haven for contemplation, and a testament to the wild and wonderful spirit of West Virginia. For those in our community seeking an authentic outdoor adventure, Brooklyn Campground is an excellent and readily accessible option.

Brooklyn Campground is strategically located near the Cunard River Access point and the Southside Trailhead, with its address noted as West Virginia 25840, USA. While the provided address is a general zip code, its placement within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Fayetteville, WV, is key. This puts it in one of West Virginia's most iconic and recreation-rich areas, making it a prime destination for locals.

To reach Brooklyn Campground, West Virginia residents will typically navigate via Gatewood Road to the Cunard turnoff, which is conveniently located between Oak Hill and Fayetteville. From there, it's a matter of following signs towards the Cunard River Access. The campground is situated upstream from the boat launch, ensuring a quiet, riverfront setting. While it offers a secluded feel, its accessibility from major routes within the New River Gorge area means it's not overly difficult to reach, even for those with tent camping gear.

The advantage of this location for West Virginians is immense. It provides direct, easy access to the New River for fishing and other water activities, as well as immediate entry to numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the breathtaking gorge. Despite its primitive nature, its proximity to the vibrant outdoor town of Fayetteville means that supplies, dining, and other services are within a reasonable drive, offering a balance between rugged wilderness and necessary conveniences.

Brooklyn Campground, focusing on a primitive and natural camping experience, offers essential services designed to support a back-to-basics stay while maximizing enjoyment of the New River Gorge.

• Tent-Only Campsites: The campground exclusively offers tent-only sites, emphasizing a traditional camping experience. These include both shaded walk-in sites (four available) and one tent-only drive-in site. RVs, campers, or car camping are prohibited, maintaining the primitive atmosphere.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, providing the fundamental necessities for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires under the stars.
• Basic Restroom Facilities: Portable toilets are available year-round, ensuring basic restroom access for campers. It's important to note that these are not flush toilets or elaborate bathhouses, aligning with the primitive nature of the campground.
• No Potable Water On-Site: Campers should be aware that there is no potable water available directly at Brooklyn Campground. Visitors must bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter/treat water from the river.
• No Electric Hookups: As a primitive campground, electric hookups are not available at any of the sites, encouraging a fully unplugged experience.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Designated areas for trash and recycling are provided, supporting a clean environment and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
• River Access: The campground is located directly on the banks of the New River near the Cunard River Access point, providing easy access for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the water.
• Hiking Trail Access: The Southside Trailhead is located immediately nearby, offering direct access to the extensive network of hiking and biking trails within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Brooklyn Campground, while primitive, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for West Virginia locals seeking a raw and authentic outdoor adventure.

• Direct New River Access and Views: A primary highlight is its stunning location directly on the banks of the New River. Campers enjoy incredible views of the river, and have immediate access for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and simply relaxing by the water. The sound of the river is a constant, soothing presence.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: As a smaller, tent-only primitive campground, Brooklyn offers a remarkably quiet and secluded environment. This is a significant draw for those looking to escape noise and crowds, providing a truly peaceful retreat into nature.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The New River is renowned for its fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass and various species of catfish. Being right on the river, Brooklyn Campground offers prime access for anglers.
• Immediate Trailhead Access: The close proximity to the Southside Trailhead means hikers and mountain bikers have instant access to extensive trails within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, offering countless opportunities for exploration and exercise.
• Free Camping (check current status): Historically, this campground has been a free, first-come, first-served site, which is an incredible value for enjoying such a prime location within a National Park. (It's always recommended to verify current fee status with the NPS).
• Shaded Walk-In Sites: The presence of shaded walk-in sites provides a more immersive and natural camping experience, often preferred by true tent campers seeking a deeper connection with the forest.
• Proximity to Iconic New River Gorge Attractions: While offering a primitive experience, the campground is strategically located near major New River Gorge attractions like the New River Gorge Bridge and the adventure towns of Fayetteville, allowing for day trips and broader exploration.
• Focus on Traditional Camping: For those who appreciate the simplicity of a fire ring, a picnic table, and sleeping under the stars without distractions, Brooklyn Campground truly delivers an unadulterated camping experience.

As Brooklyn Campground is part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, managed by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), it operates under federal guidelines rather than typical commercial campground promotions. Historically, Brooklyn Campground has been known as a primitive, free, first-come, first-served campground.

Therefore, specific "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense (like discounts or package deals) are generally not applicable. Its primary "offer" is its accessibility as a no-fee camping option in a prime location. However, it is crucial for West Virginia locals planning a visit to always verify the current status and policies with the National Park Service directly, as rules and availability can change.

Potential considerations for value, though not "promotions," might include:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Being a free (if still applicable) campground makes it an extremely budget-friendly option for accessing a world-class outdoor recreation area.
• America the Beautiful Passes: While these passes offer discounts at fee-based national parks and federal recreation sites, they would not apply to a free campground like Brooklyn. However, for those exploring other paid areas of the park or other national lands, these passes can be beneficial.

The most important "offer" is the opportunity to experience the unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve without an overnight camping fee. Always confirm current conditions and regulations before planning your trip.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Brooklyn Campground, including current operating status, regulations, and any changes to its first-come, first-served policy or amenities, West Virginia locals should contact the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve directly.

Address: West Virginia 25840, USA (This is a general zip code for the area; the campground is located near Cunard River Access in Fayetteville).

For general inquiries about the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, including campground information, the primary contact number for the National Park Service (NPS) within the park system would be the most reliable:

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Visitor Information: (304) 465-0508 (This is often a central information line for the entire park).

It is highly recommended to check the official National Park Service website for New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as well, as they provide comprehensive details on all campgrounds, trail conditions, and any alerts or closures. This will ensure you have the necessary information for a safe and enjoyable primitive camping experience at Brooklyn Campground.

For West Virginia residents, Brooklyn Campground offers a uniquely suitable and deeply rewarding outdoor experience that perfectly encapsulates the wild and wonderful spirit of our state. Its allure lies in its authentic primitive nature, unparalleled river access, and strategic location within the iconic New River Gorge.

Firstly, its tent-only, primitive setting is ideal for locals who truly seek to escape the commercialism and crowds often associated with more developed campgrounds. It allows for a genuine disconnection from everyday distractions, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment. For West Virginians who appreciate the simplicity of a campfire, the sounds of the river, and nights under a canopy of stars, Brooklyn Campground provides that pure, unadulterated camping experience right in their backyard.

Secondly, the campground’s direct access to the New River and its proximity to the Southside Trailhead are immense advantages. This means immediate opportunities for world-class fishing, peaceful river recreation, and extensive hiking and biking adventures without having to drive to separate access points. It serves as a perfect base camp for exploring the vast beauty and outdoor activities that the New River Gorge is famous for, all within a convenient distance for many West Virginia families.

Moreover, the quiet and secluded atmosphere, coupled with the potential for free camping (always verify current status), makes it an incredibly appealing and budget-friendly option for regular outdoor excursions. It embodies the adventurous yet accessible spirit of West Virginia, offering a true taste of wilderness without being impossibly remote. Brooklyn Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation for West Virginians to fully embrace and enjoy the natural treasures that define our beloved state.

Brooklyn Campground

West Virginia 25840, USA