Nestled just a short drive from Morgantown, West Virginia, and easily accessible from Interstate 68, Coopers Rock State Park beckons with breathtaking scenic overlooks and a plethora of outdoor activities. Beyond the iconic photo opportunities and stunning canyon gorge vistas, this park is a haven for biking, fishing, hiking, and rock climbing enthusiasts. Families with children will also appreciate the playgrounds scattered throughout the area. For those seeking an immersive experience in nature, camping at Coopers Rock State Park offers the perfect getaway.
Scenic overlook at Coopers Rock State Park, West Virginia, showcasing the expansive canyon views
Coopers Rock State Park boasts two distinct campgrounds, McCollum and Rhododendron, providing a combined total of 50 campsites to suit different preferences and camping styles. To ensure you have the most up-to-date information or to secure your reservation, you can contact the forest office directly at 304-594-1561.
Campground Seasons and Important Dates
Planning your camping trip to Coopers Rock State Park requires knowing the seasonal availability of each campground. Both McCollum and Rhododendron Campgrounds typically open for the season around the first weekend in April, welcoming visitors to enjoy the spring and summer months in West Virginia’s beautiful outdoors.
Rhododendron Campground, known for its primitive camping experience, usually closes for the season after the first Saturday in November, remaining closed through the end of November. McCollum Campground, offering sites with electric hookups, generally stays open a bit longer, weather permitting, until the first Saturday of December.
Reservations for campsites can be conveniently made online through the provided link, by phone, or in person at the McCollum Campground office. Keep in mind that weekend reservations (Friday and Saturday) require a minimum of two consecutive nights, while Sunday through Thursday reservations can be made for single nights. It’s also advisable to familiarize yourself with the park’s rules and regulations regarding vehicle limits per site, payment procedures, and policies on cancellations and refunds to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience. For detailed information, you can Read more about the park’s guidelines. For extended stays, note that there is a 14-night maximum stay limit unless you obtain prior approval from the Forest Superintendent.
McCollum Campground: Modern Camping Amenities
McCollum Campground at Coopers Rock State Park caters to campers seeking modern conveniences. This campground features 25 sites, all equipped with electric hookups (30 amp). A centrally located bathhouse provides essential amenities such as showers and laundry facilities. Water faucets are also conveniently situated throughout the campground. For those who wish to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available for registered campground guests. Pet owners will be pleased to know that leashed pets are welcome at McCollum Campground.
McCollum Campground is designed to accommodate a variety of camping setups, including RVs, trailers, fifth wheels, tents, and truck/van camping. For your camping needs, the campground store offers firewood, kindling, ice, and a selection of gifts and keepsakes.
Rhododendron Campground: Primitive Camping Experience
For a more rustic and nature-immersed camping experience at Coopers Rock State Park, Rhododendron Campground is an excellent choice. Named after West Virginia’s state flower, this campground offers 25 primitive campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. A central bathroom facility with flushing toilets and running water is available for guests’ convenience. Rhododendron Campground is specifically designed for tent and hammock camping. Each site provides a level area for tent setup, and many sites include tent pads. Just like McCollum Campground, leashed pets are permitted. Campers at Rhododendron Campground can purchase firewood, kindling, ice, gifts, and souvenirs at the McCollum Campground store or at the Trading Post located near the scenic overlook.
View Rates & Availability