Pocahontas Campground

For West Virginia locals who yearn for a genuine escape into the tranquility of nature, away from the constant buzz of modern life, Pocahontas Campground in Marlinton offers a perfect retreat. This isn't a bustling park with endless amenities; instead, it's a "real basic campground" that excels at providing what truly matters: peace, relaxation, and direct access to the beauty of the Monongahela National Forest. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves disconnecting from your phone and reconnecting with the quiet rhythm of the wilderness, then this "great place to camp" is waiting for you.

Imagine a campsite where the loudest sounds are the rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. That's the serene atmosphere you'll find at Pocahontas Campground. Visitors consistently praise its "peace and relaxation," noting it's the ideal spot to "bring a book and detox from your phone, electronics and busy life!" While it might be "a little close to the road," reviewers emphasize that the traffic is "not highly trafficked and very little after dark," ensuring your peaceful evenings remain undisturbed. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking genuine quiet in the wild heart of West Virginia.

Despite its basic nature, Pocahontas Campground impresses with its cleanliness and maintenance. One reviewer was particularly struck, stating, "the rest room was the cleanest I have seen for any campground, and the sites are well maintained." Each site is thoughtfully equipped with essential comforts like a "picnic table and fire ring," allowing for simple, enjoyable outdoor living. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a small RV or prefer tent camping, the 8 semi-primitive sites are perfectly suited. For West Virginians who prioritize a clean, quiet, and affordable base for exploring our state's incredible hiking and natural beauty, Pocahontas Campground truly delivers an authentic and refreshing experience.

Pocahontas Campground is conveniently located on WV-92, near Marlinton, WV 24954, USA. This placement makes it highly accessible for West Virginia residents looking to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Monongahela National Forest. Situated approximately 14 miles south of Marlinton along State Route 92, the campground is easy to find, even for those unfamiliar with the specific forest roads often found in more remote areas.

Its location serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich array of outdoor activities and natural attractions that Pocahontas County has to offer. While not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, its proximity to the vast Monongahela National Forest implies easy access to numerous hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The "Two Lick Trailhead is located within the campground," providing immediate access to local trails like Two Lick Trail #456 and Two Lick Bottom Trail #457. Additionally, only three miles from the campground is the Rimel Area Trailhead and Picnic Area, from which visitors can access Laurel Creek Trail #466 and Middle Mountain Trail #608.

The fact that it's "easy to get to on our maps" highlights its straightforward accessibility. Although it's "a little close to the road," the low traffic volume, especially "after dark," ensures that the convenience doesn't come at the cost of tranquility. For West Virginians, this means less time navigating complex routes and more time enjoying the serene environment and outdoor adventures that define this beautiful part of our state.

• Basic Campsites: Pocahontas Campground offers 8 semi-primitive campsites that are suitable for both tents and small trailers or RVs.
• No Hookups: It's important for campers to note that there are "no water of any kind," sewage, or electric hookups available at the campsites. This is a truly primitive camping experience focused on self-sufficiency. However, information from the U.S. Forest Service indicates there is a hand pump for water.
• Self-Service Fee Station: The campground operates on a simple payment system, with a fee of "$8 for a place to stay," paid at a self-service fee station.
• First-Come, First-Served: All 8 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted through Recreation.gov or similar systems. This is ideal for spontaneous trips.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire Rings/Pits: Every site includes a fire ring, allowing campers to have safe and enjoyable campfires. Some information also mentions an attached grill.
• Lantern Posts: Each campsite is furnished with a lantern post for hanging lighting.
• Pit Toilets (Vault Toilets): The campground provides "pit toilet" facilities (vault toilets), which reviewers have noted as being "the cleanest I have seen for any campground."
• Trash Receptacles: Trash cans are available, contributing to the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the campground.
• On-Site Water Source: While individual sites lack water hookups, there is a hand pump well located within the campground for potable water.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash, making it suitable for campers with furry companions.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from mid-March (specifically, April) through the end of November, weather permitting.

• Exceptional Cleanliness of Facilities: A standout highlight is the "cleanest" pit toilet (vault toilet) that one reviewer had "seen for any campground," indicating a high standard of maintenance for a primitive site.
• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: The campground is consistently described as "quiet" and "peaceful," making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, relaxation, and a break from busy life.
• Affordable Camping: At "$8 for a place to stay," Pocahontas Campground offers a highly economical option for camping in West Virginia. The availability of discounts, such as a "senior pass" which reduces the fee to "$4," further enhances its affordability.
• Rustic, Back-to-Basics Experience: It's a "real basic campground," perfect for campers who are self-sufficient and prefer a traditional, primitive outdoor experience without modern hookups.
• Well-Maintained Sites: Beyond the restrooms, the individual "sites are well maintained," ensuring a pleasant and tidy camping environment.
• Direct Trail Access: With the "Two Lick Trailhead located within the campground," campers have immediate access to hiking and biking opportunities in the Monongahela National Forest.
• Ideal for "Detox": The serene environment is perfect for those looking to "detox from your phone, electronics and busy life," encouraging a deeper connection with nature.
• Standard Campsite Amenities: Each site is equipped with essential comforts, including a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hookup, facilitating enjoyable outdoor living.
• On-Site Potable Water: Despite no individual site water, the presence of a hand pump well provides a source of potable water for campers.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Monongahela National Forest, Pocahontas Campground operates on a standardized fee system rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The base fee is $8.00 per site per night, which is already a very economical rate for camping in West Virginia.

However, a significant "special offer" for eligible West Virginia locals (and other visitors) is the availability of discounts for holders of certain federal recreation passes. As one reviewer highlighted, they "only paid $4 due to a senior pass." This indicates that those with an America the Beautiful Senior Pass (or other applicable federal passes like the Access Pass) can receive a 50% discount on the nightly rate.

For specific details on which passes are accepted and any other potential reductions, it's always recommended to consult the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Monongahela National Forest or contact the local Ranger District. While you won't find traditional sales, the consistent affordability and potential for federal pass discounts make Pocahontas Campground an excellent and accessible choice for budget-conscious West Virginia campers.

For West Virginia locals interested in experiencing the peace and rustic charm of Pocahontas Campground, or if you have any questions about its facilities and accessibility, you can reach out for more information.

Address: WV-92, Marlinton, WV 24954, USA (The campground is specifically located off State Route 92, approximately 14 miles south of Marlinton, within the Monongahela National Forest.)

Phone: (304) 799-4334

Mobile Phone: +1 304-799-4334

These phone numbers connect to the Marlinton Ranger District, which oversees Pocahontas Campground. It is advisable to call during standard business hours for inquiries about current conditions, site availability (as it's first-come, first-served), status of the hand pump, or any updates on trail conditions and fire restrictions. This direct contact will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information to plan your "peace and relaxation" getaway at this inviting West Virginia campground.

For West Virginia locals, Pocahontas Campground offers an ideal and incredibly suitable destination for those seeking a genuine, no-frills outdoor experience in the heart of our beautiful state. Its primary appeal lies in its dedication to providing "peace and relaxation," making it a perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. If your goal is to "detox from your phone, electronics and busy life," this campground provides the serene environment to do just that, right in your own backyard.

The convenience of its location on WV-92 near Marlinton ensures easy access, a significant advantage for quick weekend getaways or longer, unburdened retreats into the Monongahela National Forest. Despite being a "real basic campground," its commitment to cleanliness, particularly the "cleanest" pit toilets, and "well maintained" sites, provides a comfortable and pleasant experience that is highly valued by experienced campers. This focus on essentials at an "unbeatable" price of $8, with potential discounts for senior pass holders, makes it an incredibly economical choice for regular use.

Moreover, the direct access to trailheads within the campground offers immediate opportunities for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes of the National Forest, catering to the adventurous spirit of many West Virginians. For those who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature, the simplicity of camping with a fire ring and picnic table, and the chance to truly disconnect, Pocahontas Campground is not just a suitable option; it's a cherished local spot that embodies the true essence of West Virginia's wild and wonderful outdoors.

Pocahontas Campground

WV-92, Marlinton, WV 24954, USA