Camp Brookside

Hello, fellow West Virginians! Are you looking for a unique camping experience that blends rich history with stunning natural beauty? Tucked away on the banks of the mighty New River, Camp Brookside in Hinton, WV, offers just that. This isn't just any campground; it's a piece of our state's heritage, now managed by the National Park Service, providing a rustic and immersive outdoor adventure. Imagine waking up to the sound of the river flowing, surrounded by lush landscapes, and knowing you're in a place with a fascinating past.

Camp Brookside, once a vibrant summer camp for the children of Union Carbide employees, has been transformed into a wonderful destination for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with nature. Reviews from visitors consistently praise its historic charm, its fantastic location right on the New River, and the abundance of opportunities for outdoor activities. While it's a reservation-only spot, the effort to book your stay is well worth it for the unforgettable experience that awaits you in the heart of the New River Gorge.

This destination is particularly well-suited for groups, whether it's a family reunion, a scout troop outing, or a gathering of friends who share a love for the outdoors. Its blend of rustic cabins and open camping areas, coupled with the river's presence, creates an ideal setting for both relaxation and adventure. Camp Brookside truly offers a slice of "Almost Heaven" for those eager to explore and appreciate West Virginia's incredible natural and historical treasures.

Camp Brookside is beautifully situated at 309 N Mullens Rd, Hinton, WV 25951, USA. This address places it squarely within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a highly acclaimed natural area in West Virginia. The campground's prime location directly on the New River provides immediate access to one of the oldest rivers in North America, offering breathtaking views and endless recreational possibilities.

Getting to Camp Brookside is relatively straightforward for those traveling by car. If you're coming from Interstate 64, take exit 139 (Hinton/Sandstone exit) and head south towards Hinton on Route 20 South. Continue on Route 20 South for approximately 5 miles. When you reach the small town of Brooks, turn right onto North Mullens Road. After crossing the railroad tracks, make a quick left, and you'll follow a dirt road that leads directly to Camp Brookside. While public transportation options are limited in this rural area, the well-maintained roads make it easily accessible by personal vehicle. Its setting within a National Park means visitors benefit from the surrounding protected lands, ensuring a truly natural and unspoiled environment for their stay. The proximity to Hinton also means basic amenities and local charm are just a short drive away.

• Rustic Cabins: Camp Brookside offers seven rustic cabins, providing a comfortable alternative to tent camping. These cabins are ideal for groups and offer a cozy base for your adventures.
• Camping Areas: In addition to cabins, there are designated areas suitable for both tent camping and potentially RVs (though specifics on RV hookups should be confirmed directly with the park service, as the emphasis is on "rustic" and group-oriented facilities).
• Main Hall with Commercial Kitchen: A significant amenity for groups, the Main Hall includes a commercial kitchen, making it convenient for preparing meals for larger gatherings and events.
• Access to New River: The property runs along the New River, providing an amazing backdrop and direct access for fishing and putting boats in the water.
• Shared Bathhouses: Well-kept shared bathhouses are centrally located for convenience, offering essential facilities for campers and cabin guests.
• On-site Education Programs: As a National Park Service property and environmental education center, Camp Brookside is utilized for educational programs, often focusing on environmental studies and local history.
• Short-Term Leasing: The facility is available for short-term leasing, particularly for groups, educational programs, and events. This makes it a prime location for organized trips and retreats.
• Wi-Fi: While generally a rustic experience, the Camp Brookside Environmental Education Center has Wi-Fi available throughout the premises for guests utilizing the facilities.
• Library Access: Guests using the Environmental Education Center may have access to a large library and some field study tools.
• Hiking Trail: A one-mile hiking trail is available on the property, offering an easy way to explore the immediate surroundings.

• Historic Significance: Originally a summer camp for the children of Union Carbide workers, Camp Brookside carries a rich history. This adds a unique layer to the camping experience, allowing visitors to connect with the past of industrial West Virginia.
• National Park Service Property: Being managed by the National Park Service means the site is well-maintained and preserved, with a focus on environmental education and conservation.
• Direct River Access: One of the most significant highlights is its direct proximity to the New River. This is fantastic for fishing enthusiasts, those who enjoy kayaking or canoeing, or simply anyone who wants to relax by the water.
• Secluded and Peaceful: Despite its historical significance and recreational opportunities, Camp Brookside is noted for its tranquil and secluded atmosphere, offering a true escape from everyday life.
• Group-Friendly Facilities: With rustic cabins, a main hall, and a commercial kitchen, it's perfectly set up for group gatherings, volunteer service weeks, and educational programs.
• Scenic Backdrop: The New River itself, with its surrounding forests and the nearby Brooks Falls (a class three rapid), provides an incredibly scenic and inspiring environment.
• Ideal for Outdoor Activities: The area is ripe with opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and exploring the wider New River Gorge National Park.

As Camp Brookside is a National Park Service property and primarily operates as an Environmental Education Center available for reservation-only group use and leasing, traditional "promotions" in the sense of discounted nightly rates for individual campers are not typically offered. Instead, its value lies in its unique offerings for organized groups and its historical and environmental significance.

The core "offer" of Camp Brookside is its availability for short-term leasing by groups. This provides an excellent opportunity for educational institutions, volunteer organizations like the Sierra Club, and other community groups to utilize a well-equipped, historic facility within a National Park setting. To inquire about availability, leasing options, and any specific program rates for educational or service-oriented groups, it is essential to contact the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve headquarters directly. Information regarding booking and pricing for events or group stays would be handled through their reservation system, which is geared towards planned group activities rather than individual, spontaneous camping. Therefore, potential visitors interested in using the facilities for a group event should reach out to the National Park Service for the most accurate and up-to-date information on booking and any associated costs.

• Address: 309 N Mullens Rd, Hinton, WV 25951, USA
• Reservations and Information: As Camp Brookside is a National Park Service property and primarily a reservation-only facility for groups, direct booking is handled through the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. It is recommended to contact their Headquarters for information on reservations and availability. The phone number for the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is generally (304) 465-0508. Please note that this may be a general park number, and you might need to specify your interest in Camp Brookside.

For West Virginia locals, Camp Brookside offers a truly distinctive and valuable experience that goes beyond a typical campground. Its deep roots in our state's industrial history, coupled with its current role as a National Park Service property dedicated to environmental education, make it a meaningful destination. For those of us who appreciate the rich tapestry of West Virginia's past and its enduring natural beauty, Camp Brookside provides an opportunity to connect with both.

If you're part of a community group, school, or organization looking for an unparalleled setting for a retreat, educational program, or volunteer service project, Camp Brookside's facilities, including its rustic cabins and commercial kitchen, are ideal. The fact that it's a reservation-only spot ensures a focused and often private experience for your group, free from the crowds that can sometimes be found in more widely accessible camping areas.

Furthermore, its direct access to the New River is a tremendous asset. Whether you're an avid angler, love to paddle, or simply enjoy the calming presence of flowing water, the river provides an amazing backdrop and countless recreational possibilities right at your doorstep. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the chance to engage with West Virginia's wild and wonderful landscapes, makes Camp Brookside a perfect local gem. It's a place where you can not only enjoy the outdoors but also learn about and contribute to the preservation of our state's natural and cultural heritage. For a truly immersive and historically rich outdoor experience right here in West Virginia, Camp Brookside is highly recommended.

Camp Brookside

309 N Mullens Rd, Hinton, WV 25951, USA