Riffle Run Campground

riffle run campground wv

For West Virginia residents seeking a tranquil and well-maintained outdoor escape, Riffle Run Campground at Burnsville Lake offers an ideal setting. Nestled in the heart of scenic Central West Virginia, this campground provides a perfect blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty. It's a place where the peaceful sounds of nature and the calming presence of the lake create an inviting atmosphere for both seasoned campers and families looking to create cherished memories.

Riffle Run Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is renowned for its meticulous upkeep and friendly, welcoming volunteers and hosts. Unlike some larger, more bustling sites, Riffle Run prides itself on its quiet and serene environment, allowing campers to truly unwind and connect with the outdoors. Whether you prefer the comfort of a full hook-up RV site or the simplicity of a primitive tent spot, Riffle Run accommodates various camping styles. Its direct access to Burnsville Lake, coupled with excellent amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere, makes it a top choice for West Virginians looking for a convenient and high-quality local camping experience.

Riffle Run Campground is conveniently located at 2550 South Main Street, Burnsville, WV 26335, USA. This prime location places it directly on the northern end of Burnsville Lake, a beautiful reservoir in Braxton County. For West Virginia residents, the campground is easily accessible just a short drive off Interstate 79 (Exit 79). The direct route from the interstate makes for a smooth journey, even for those pulling larger RVs or trailers.

The campground's setting within a mountain valley, just beyond the Burnsville Dam, provides a picturesque backdrop of forested hills. Its proximity to the Little Kanawha River also adds to the natural appeal of the area. While offering a peaceful, secluded feel, Riffle Run is not isolated. The town of Burnsville offers basic services, and the nearby Burnsville Lake Marina provides additional conveniences like boat rentals and a snack bar. This combination of natural serenity and convenient access makes Riffle Run an excellent choice for West Virginians seeking a local getaway without extensive travel. The well-maintained roads leading into and within the campground ensure easy navigation upon arrival.

• Full Hook-up RV Sites: Riffle Run Campground offers 54 full hook-up sites, providing 50 amp electric service, water, and sewer connections for maximum RV comfort.
• Primitive / Tent Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are 6 primitive, no-hook-up sites available, ideal for tent camping.
• Clean Shower Facilities: A centrally located bathroom facility within the campground houses clean and modern shower facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for all campers.
• Laundry Facility: A convenient laundry facility is available on-site, perfect for longer stays or for refreshing clothes after outdoor activities.
• Playgrounds: The campground features two playgrounds, providing excellent recreational opportunities for children. An additional playground is located just outside the campground entrance in the Riffle Run Day Use Area.
• Sewage Dump Station: For RVers, a sewage dump station is conveniently located within the campground.
• Fresh Water Fill-up Stations: Fresh water fill-up stations are available for campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite, whether full hook-up or primitive, is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Lantern Posts: Each site also includes a lantern post for evening lighting.

• Meticulously Maintained Grounds: Reviewers consistently praise the campground's immaculate condition, with neatly mowed grass that "looks like golf fairways" and a generally spotless appearance, thanks to dedicated hosts and volunteers.
• Quiet and Serene Atmosphere: The campground offers a peaceful and quiet environment, especially during weekdays, making it ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.
• Direct Access to Burnsville Lake: Campers have excellent access to Burnsville Lake for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. A boat ramp is available just before the campground entrance.
• Abundant Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the Burnsville Lake area offers extensive opportunities for fishing (trout, bass, walleye, crappie, etc.), hunting (deer, turkey, squirrel), swimming at Bulltown Day Use Area, and picnicking.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: While some trails may require better marking, the area boasts over 100 miles of trails that meander through the hilly, forested region, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With multiple playgrounds and a focus on community events, Riffle Run is highly suitable for families.
• Welcoming Campground Hosts and Volunteers: The dedication and helpfulness of the campground hosts and volunteers are frequently highlighted in reviews, contributing to a positive and welcoming experience.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: Riffle Run operates on a first-come, first-served basis for all sites (no reservations accepted), which can be a highlight for spontaneous trips, though it means arriving with your camping equipment.
• On-Site Marina Access: The privately-owned Burnsville Lake Marina is conveniently located nearby, offering boat and jet ski rentals, docking facilities, a snack bar, and fishing supplies.
• Cell Service: Unlike some remote West Virginia campgrounds, Riffle Run is noted for having cell service, which can be a significant convenience for campers.

As a campground primarily managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Riffle Run Campground typically adheres to a standardized fee structure rather than offering frequent, dynamic promotions common in private campgrounds. However, West Virginia residents can anticipate the following regarding pricing and potential benefits:

• Affordable Nightly Rates: Riffle Run offers competitive rates, typically around $30 per night for full hook-up RV sites and $20 per night for primitive sites, making it an affordable option for many.
• No Reservation Required: Since sites are first-come, first-served, there’s no booking fee or advance payment required, making spontaneous trips easier.
• Senior and Access Pass Discounts: Federal recreation passes, such as the America the Beautiful Senior Pass or Access Pass, may offer discounts on camping fees for eligible individuals. West Virginia seniors or those with permanent disabilities should inquire about these benefits upon arrival.
• Volunteer Opportunities: As noted in public information, the campground sometimes offers free full hook-up campsites to volunteers who provide a certain number of work hours per week (e.g., maintaining grounds). This is a unique 'offer' for those able and willing to contribute.
• Local Events by "Friends of Burnsville Lake": While not direct campground promotions, local organizations like "Friends of Burnsville Lake" (as mentioned in a review regarding an apple butter demonstration) often host special events and activities at or near the park, which can enhance the camping experience at no additional cost or for a small fee.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing or information on any specific programs, West Virginia residents should contact Riffle Run Campground directly at (304) 853-2371 or (304) 853-2583 (the host number during camping season).

For inquiries, information on current conditions, or to check site availability (though it's first-come, first-served), you can reach Riffle Run Campground using the following contact details:

Address: 2550 South Main Street, Burnsville, WV 26335, USA

Phone: (304) 853-2371

Campground Host during season: (304) 853-2583

It is advisable to call ahead, especially during peak season, to get a sense of how full the campground is before making the trip, given its first-come, first-served policy.

For West Virginia residents, Riffle Run Campground at Burnsville Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its primary appeal lies in its combination of convenient accessibility from major state routes and its deeply serene, natural setting. You don't have to travel far to find a true escape into the "Almost Heaven" beauty of our state. The diverse range of sites, from full hook-up for comfortable RVing to primitive options for traditional tent camping, ensures that it caters to every local outdoor enthusiast, regardless of their preferred style.

The meticulous upkeep of the grounds and the consistently praised friendly campground hosts and volunteers contribute significantly to a welcoming and pleasant experience. This level of care means that local families and individuals can enjoy a clean and safe environment. The abundance of on-site amenities, including clean shower facilities, laundry, and multiple playgrounds, makes longer stays comfortable and keeps children entertained, truly making it a family-friendly destination.

Beyond the campground itself, the direct access to Burnsville Lake unlocks a world of outdoor activities – from superb fishing and boating to extensive hiking trails for exploring the region's stunning landscapes. The quiet atmosphere, combined with the convenience of amenities like cell service and nearby marina services, offers the perfect balance for a relaxing yet engaging local getaway. For West Virginians seeking a well-maintained, peaceful, and activity-rich camping experience close to home, Riffle Run Campground is a true gem waiting to be discovered and revisited.

Riffle Run Campground

2550 South Main Street, Burnsville, WV 26335, USA