Gerald Freeman Campground

sutton lake camping wv, gerald freeman campground photos

Hey West Virginia locals! Are you ready for a fantastic outdoor adventure that puts you right on the water, surrounded by the beautiful rolling hills of our "Almost Heaven" state? Look no further than Gerald Freeman Campground, nestled in the headwaters of stunning Sutton Lake in central West Virginia. This large and popular campground offers a wide variety of amenities and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking a refreshing escape into nature.

Gerald Freeman Campground is part of the larger Sutton Lake recreation area, providing unparalleled access to the 1,440-acre lake. Whether you're looking to cast a line, launch your boat, explore hiking trails, or simply relax by your campsite, this campground has something for everyone. It's a place where memories are made, from kids enjoying the playgrounds to families gathering around a campfire after a day on the lake.

While the campground is generally well-regarded for its beauty and amenities, it's also a hub for outdoor activity, especially around fishing tournaments during peak seasons. This can sometimes lead to a lively atmosphere on the lake. However, the dedicated staff and rangers are known for being super nice, helpful, and accommodating, always striving to ensure a positive experience for all visitors. So, if you're looking for an active lakeside camping spot with plenty to do, Gerald Freeman Campground is a top contender right here in West Virginia.

Location and Accessibility

Gerald Freeman Campground is conveniently located at 1151 Kanawha Run Rd, Sutton, WV 26601, USA. This prime location places it in Braxton County, central West Virginia, approximately 70 miles north of Charleston. The campground is situated directly on Sutton Lake, an expansive body of water known for its recreational opportunities.

For those traveling by vehicle, the campground is easily accessible. From I-79, visitors can take Exit 67, turn right onto WV-4 for about 1 mile, then turn left onto WV-15 and travel approximately 12 miles to reach the campground, which will be on your right. It's always a good idea to cross-reference GPS directions with official park maps or call ahead, as rural addresses can sometimes be tricky. The roads leading to the campground are well-maintained, accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes.

While the campground offers a natural, lakeside setting, it’s not completely isolated. The town of Sutton is a short drive away, providing access to essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries. It’s important to note that cell service can be "hit or miss" in the campground area, which for many, is an opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the outdoor experience. This balance of natural beauty and relative accessibility makes Gerald Freeman Campground a popular choice for West Virginia families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Services Offered

Gerald Freeman Campground is a large, well-equipped facility managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offering a comprehensive range of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. With 158 campsites in total, it caters to various camping preferences:

• Campsites: The campground offers a variety of site types. 113 sites have electric hookups, while 37 sites boast full hookups (electric, water, and sewer). Sites are generally spacious, level, and well-maintained, with some featuring paved surfaces. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring/grill. Campsites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 28 and 67 feet.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides modern facilities, including hot showers, flush toilets, and water fountains. Some reviews suggest that while generally clean, facilities might occasionally need minor maintenance, but overall are functional and heated for comfort.
• Boat Ramps and Marina: On-site boat ramps provide easy access to Sutton Lake. A marina with a snack bar is also located on-site, offering convenience for boaters and day-trippers.
• Trailer Water/Dump Stations: Two trailer water/dump stations are available for RV users to manage waste and refill water tanks.
• Playgrounds and Recreation Courts: Younger visitors will love the excellent playgrounds and basketball courts, ensuring plenty of space for kids to play and burn off energy.
• Camp Store/Office: While not explicitly detailed, most COE campgrounds of this size have a central office or camp store for check-in and basic supplies.
• Reservations: All sites are reservable and can be booked up to 6 months in advance. While some sites might be available on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends.
• On-Site Staff/Rangers: Reviews consistently praise the staff, maintenance crew, and rangers for being super nice, helpful, accommodating, and fair.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from mid-April to the end of November, generally closing after deer season in early December.

Features / Highlights

Gerald Freeman Campground is packed with features that make it a premier destination for outdoor recreation in West Virginia:

• Sutton Lake Access: As the central feature, Sutton Lake offers 1,440 acres of water winding 14 miles up the Elk River, with 40 miles of shoreline. It's perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing.
• Excellent Fishing: Anglers will find plentiful bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish in the lake. The Elk River below Sutton Dam is renowned for its muskie and walleye fishing, and trout are stocked in the downstream area, providing diverse fishing opportunities.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Fire roads and hunting trails in the surrounding lands provide great hiking and biking opportunities around Sutton Lake and at the nearby Elk River Wildlife Management Area. There are also several nice trails directly within the campground, perfect for walks.
• Abundant Wildlife: The area is rich in wildlife, including deer (which are common sightings), turkeys, squirrels, ruffed grouse, Canada geese, and other waterfowl, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Shady Sites: Many sites are well-shaded by mixed stands of oak, hickory, poplar, and cherry trees, providing a comfortable and cool environment during warmer months.
• Organized Activities: A variety of campground activities are scheduled throughout the summer for children of all ages, enhancing the family-friendly atmosphere.
• Proximity to Elk River Wildlife Management Area: This nearby area offers additional opportunities for hunting and off-trail hiking for more adventurous explorers.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a federal campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Gerald Freeman Campground primarily operates with a standard fee structure rather than frequent promotional sales. However, there are established pricing tiers and potential discounts that make camping here accessible:

• Standard Fees: Nightly rates for campsites typically range from $22.00 to $40.00, depending on the type of hookup (electric or full hookup) and possibly the specific site's amenities or location.
• America the Beautiful Passes: Holders of the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass generally receive a 50% discount on the camping fee for their site. This is a significant benefit for eligible individuals.
• Group Rates: While not explicitly listed for this specific campground, other COE campgrounds sometimes offer different rates for group camping areas or extended stays. It's worth inquiring directly if planning a large group outing or a very long-term stay.

It's always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website or call the campground directly for the most current pricing, specific site details, and any applicable discounts for your planned visit, as fees can be subject to change. Booking well in advance, especially for popular weekends and during fishing tournament seasons, is highly advisable.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or the most up-to-date information on Gerald Freeman Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1151 Kanawha Run Rd, Sutton, WV 26601, USA

Phone: (304) 765-2267 or +1 304-765-2267 (This number is for the campground office. For reservations, it's often directed to Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777.)

General inquiries may also be directed to the Sutton Lake Project Office at (304) 765-7756 or (304) 765-2816.

Website: While there might not be a dedicated independent website, information and reservations can typically be found on Recreation.gov by searching for "Gerald Freeman Campground, Sutton Lake."

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For West Virginians, Gerald Freeman Campground at Sutton Lake is a quintessential "Almost Heaven" outdoor destination that offers a fantastic blend of convenience, recreation, and natural beauty. It's an ideal choice for locals because:

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With excellent playgrounds, basketball courts, and planned summer activities, it's a perfect spot for families with children of all ages to make lasting memories.
• Fishing Paradise: Whether you're an avid angler or just looking to cast a line, the abundant fish in Sutton Lake and the renowned muskie and walleye fishing in the Elk River make it a prime location. While fishing tournaments can create a busy atmosphere, the opportunities for great catches are undeniable.
• Boater's Dream: On-site boat ramps and a marina mean easy access to Sutton Lake for all types of boating, from leisurely cruises to watersports.
• Hiking and Nature Immersion: Surrounded by lush forests and offering access to a network of trails, it provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, allowing for a deep connection with our state's natural landscapes.
• Supportive Staff: The consistent praise for the friendly, helpful, and fair staff ensures a welcoming experience, even if you encounter minor issues like a mix-up with a reserved spot.
• Accessibility and Comfort: With numerous sites offering electric and full hookups, and the presence of hot showers and flush toilets, it bridges the gap between rugged outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities, all within a reasonable drive from many parts of West Virginia.

While some visitors have noted that sites can be close together and that tournament weekends can be bustling, these are often minor trade-offs for the extensive recreational opportunities and the well-maintained facilities. Gerald Freeman Campground provides a truly comprehensive camping experience right here in West Virginia, inviting locals to explore and enjoy the natural splendor of Sutton Lake.

Gerald Freeman Campground

1151 Kanawha Run Rd, Sutton, WV 26601, USA