Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake

West Virginia, fondly known as "Almost Heaven," truly lives up to its name with its stunning mountains, lush forests, and pristine waterways. For locals seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, a hidden gem awaits in the southeastern hills: Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake State Park. This tranquil park offers a quintessential West Virginia outdoor experience, combining the serenity of a lake with comfortable camping amenities, making it a perfect destination for families, anglers, and anyone looking to escape the everyday hustle.

Moncove Lake State Park, established in 1960 with the damming of Devil Creek, later designated a state park in 1991, spans 250 acres within a larger 500-acre wildlife management area. At its heart lies the beautiful 144-acre Moncove Lake, providing a scenic backdrop for all activities. Moncove Campground is an integral part of this serene setting, offering a peaceful base for exploring the park's natural wonders. It’s designed to provide a wholesome outdoor experience, focusing on relaxation and family-friendly activities.

The campground offers a traditional camping experience with a strong emphasis on connecting with nature. Visitors can expect a quiet atmosphere, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the West Virginia wilderness. It’s a favorite spot for those who appreciate fishing, boating, swimming, birdwatching, and hiking, all within easy reach of their campsite. While it provides essential amenities for a comfortable stay, Moncove maintains a rustic charm that many outdoor enthusiasts cherish. It's a place where you can unwind by a campfire under a starlit sky, creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Moncove Campground is conveniently located at 1433 Moncove Lake Access Rd, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA. This address places it in the picturesque Monroe County, in the southeastern part of West Virginia, near the charming village of Union. For West Virginia residents, its location makes it an accessible escape, particularly for those in the southern and central regions of the state.

The drive to Moncove Lake State Park is often described as scenic, winding through the rolling hills and charming landscapes of the region. While it offers a sense of seclusion, the park is not overly remote. The village of Union, which is the Monroe County seat, is less than a 20-minute drive away, providing convenient access to essential services such as grocery shopping, healthcare facilities, and local restaurants. This allows campers to stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal out without having to travel far from their natural retreat. The park's well-maintained access roads ensure that both RVs and vehicles towing trailers can reach the campground with ease.

Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake State Park provides a range of services designed to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, catering to both tent and RV campers.

• Campsites: The campground features 48 tent and trailer sites. Of these, 34 sites are equipped with electric hookups (some sources say 25 electric hookups, so it is best to confirm exact numbers when booking). These sites are suitable for a variety of camping setups, from traditional tents to travel trailers and RVs.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill surface, perfect for cooking meals outdoors and enjoying campfires.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the campground at various points.
• Central Bathhouse: A centrally located bathhouse provides flush toilet facilities and hot showers, ensuring comfort for all campers. These facilities are generally well-maintained and clean.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RV and trailer waste disposal.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase upon arrival at the campground office, making it easy to enjoy a campfire without having to bring your own.
• Picnic Shelters: Three picnic shelters are available for rent, complete with grills and tables, ideal for larger group gatherings or day-use picnics.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online, by phone, or at the campground office, though some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during the off-season. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for weekends and during peak season.

Moncove Campground's setting within Moncove Lake State Park provides numerous features and highlights that enhance the outdoor experience.

• Moncove Lake: The centerpiece of the park, the 144-acre lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing (largemouth bass, bluegill, trout, catfish, walleye, yellow perch), boating (5 hp gasoline motor limit), and swimming (in the designated pool area, not the lake).
• Boat Rentals: Rowboats, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rent seasonally, with personal flotation devices provided, making it easy to get out on the water.
• Swimming Pool: An outdoor swimming pool with a wading/baby pool and a snack bar is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offering a refreshing way to cool off during the warmer months.
• Hiking Trails: The park boasts several trails, including Devil's Creek Trail, Diamond Hollow Trail, Roxalia Springs Trail, and Grouse Knoll Trail. These trails range in difficulty and offer opportunities for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes through the forests.
• Wildlife Viewing & Birdwatching: The park and adjacent 500-acre wildlife management area are teeming with wildlife, including deer, turkeys, squirrels, and various bird species. Moncove Lake is a recognized birding hot spot, especially during the fall hawk migration along nearby Peter's Mountain.
• Playgrounds: Two playground areas are available in the picnic area, providing entertainment for younger visitors.
• Hunting: Hunting is permitted on the adjacent 500-acre wildlife management area, with opportunities for small game, deer, wild turkey, ducks, and geese during regular seasons (licenses and regulations apply).
• Geocaching: For those who enjoy a modern treasure hunt, there are four geocaches hidden around Moncove Lake.
• Accessible Fishing Pier: An accessible fishing pier allows everyone to enjoy the thrill of fishing.

West Virginia State Parks, including Moncove Lake State Park Campground, often offer a variety of promotions and discounts throughout the year. While specific deals can change, here are some common types of offers that West Virginia locals might find beneficial:

• Senior Discounts: Often, visitors aged 60 or 65 and older can receive a percentage off their campsite fees (e.g., 10% off with valid ID).
• Military and First Responder Discounts: West Virginia State Parks frequently show appreciation for active-duty military, veterans, and first responders with discounts on lodging and camping.
• Midweek Markdown: Keep an eye out for special promotions that offer discounts on mid-week stays, which can be an excellent way to enjoy the park with fewer crowds.
• Package Deals: Sometimes, special packages might be offered that combine camping with other park activities or nearby attractions.
• Loyalty Programs: While not directly a discount on initial booking, frequent visitors to WV State Parks might benefit from loyalty programs or passes that offer various perks.

It is always recommended to visit the official West Virginia State Parks website (wvstateparks.com/deals/) or call the park office directly at (304) 647-4190 to inquire about current promotions, seasonal offers, and any specific discounts you might qualify for. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

Ready to plan your escape to the peaceful shores of Moncove Lake? Here's how to connect with Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake State Park:

Address: 1433 Moncove Lake Access Rd, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA

Phone: (304) 647-4190

Mobile Phone: +1 304-647-4190

For reservations, you can typically book online through the West Virginia State Parks reservation system or by calling the park office directly.

For West Virginia locals, Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake State Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an accessible slice of "Almost Heaven" right in our own backyard. Its location in the serene hills of Monroe County makes it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without requiring extensive travel for many residents.

The park's emphasis on natural recreation—fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing—aligns perfectly with the outdoor-loving spirit of West Virginians. Whether you're an avid angler looking to cast a line in the well-stocked lake, a family seeking a safe and engaging environment for children to explore, or simply someone yearning for peace and quiet amidst beautiful scenery, Moncove delivers. The availability of electric hookups for RVs and well-maintained bathhouses ensures comfort, while the abundance of nature provides ample opportunities for true rejuvenation.

Beyond the activities, Moncove Lake State Park fosters a sense of community and provides a chance to unplug from daily stresses. It's a place where local families have created cherished memories for generations, returning year after year to enjoy the simple pleasures of lakeside camping. Supporting our state parks also means contributing to the preservation of these natural treasures for future generations. For a genuine, tranquil, and activity-rich outdoor experience that embodies the best of West Virginia, Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake is an unparalleled choice for any local looking to connect with the wild and wonderful.

Moncove Campground at Moncove Lake

1433 Moncove Lake Access Rd, Gap Mills, WV 24941, USA