Camp Brookside

For local residents in West Virginia and those seeking a unique "camping near me" experience with a touch of history and stunning natural surroundings, Camp Brookside, located at 309 N Mullens Rd, Hinton, WV 25951, USA, offers a compelling option. Situated along the picturesque New River, this former summer camp for the children of Union Carbide is now a National Park Service property, providing a distinctive setting for various outdoor activities and group gatherings. If you're looking for a place with rustic charm, direct river access, and a rich history, Camp Brookside warrants your attention.

One of the most striking aspects of Camp Brookside, as highlighted by a volunteer group from the Sierra Club, is its "WONDERFUL" nature and historical significance. The fact that it was once a summer camp for the children of Union Carbide adds a layer of unique heritage to the location. Now under the stewardship of the National Park Service, it retains its charm while offering access to the natural beauty of the New River. This blend of history and natural splendor makes Camp Brookside a truly special place to visit for local users interested in both aspects.

The facilities at Camp Brookside are noteworthy, particularly for group accommodations. The presence of "Seven rustic cabins" provides a step up from traditional tent camping, offering sheltered lodging for those who prefer a more solid structure. While the term "rustic" suggests a simpler style of accommodation, these cabins likely provide basic amenities for a comfortable stay in a natural setting. Additionally, the "Main Hall with a commercial kitchen" is a significant feature, making Camp Brookside exceptionally well-suited for group events, retreats, or large family gatherings where meal preparation on a larger scale is required. This commercial kitchen is a valuable asset that distinguishes Camp Brookside from many other campgrounds in the area.

The environment surrounding Camp Brookside is dominated by the majestic New River, which "runs along the property providing an amazing backdrop." This proximity to the river offers not only stunning scenic views but also direct access for a variety of water-based activities. As noted by a reviewer, Camp Brookside is a "good spot right on the river for fishing and putting boats in the water." This indicates excellent opportunities for local anglers to enjoy the renowned fishing of the New River, and for those with canoes, kayaks, or other small watercraft, convenient access for launching and exploring the river.

Beyond river activities, Camp Brookside also offers a "great area for camping and outdoor activities." While the specifics of these camping areas are not detailed, the comment suggests that there are designated spaces suitable for tent camping, in addition to the cabin accommodations. The mention of "outdoor activities" implies that the property and its surroundings are conducive to various forms of recreation, which could include hiking, nature walks, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the natural environment along the riverbanks.

A crucial piece of information for local users interested in staying at Camp Brookside is that it is a "reservation only spot in the park." This means that spontaneous visits or walk-in camping are likely not permitted. To secure a booking, potential visitors "would have to contact their HQ for more information on it." This highlights the importance of planning ahead and reaching out to the National Park Service headquarters to inquire about availability, reservation procedures, fees, and any specific regulations for Camp Brookside. This reservation system likely ensures that the property is managed effectively and that guests have a designated space upon arrival.

The fact that the National Park Service now manages Camp Brookside ensures a certain level of maintenance and preservation of the property and its natural resources. This stewardship often implies a commitment to conservation and providing a positive visitor experience. Local users can likely expect well-maintained grounds and facilities, consistent with the standards of the National Park Service.

Considering the unique combination of rustic cabins, a main hall with a commercial kitchen, and direct access to the New River, Camp Brookside appears to be particularly well-suited for group outings. Local organizations, clubs, large families, or groups of friends looking for a place to gather for a weekend retreat or a longer stay could find Camp Brookside to be an ideal location. The availability of both cabin lodging and camping areas offers flexibility for different accommodation preferences within a group.

To obtain more detailed information about the services and features of Camp Brookside, local users should contact the National Park Service headquarters for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Inquiries should include specifics about the capacity of the cabins and the main hall, the amenities provided within the cabins and the kitchen, the availability of restroom and shower facilities, details about the camping areas (e.g., number of sites, hookups if any), and any regulations regarding campfires, pets, or other relevant aspects of a stay. Additionally, it would be beneficial to inquire about any maps or information available regarding hiking trails or other recreational opportunities in the vicinity of Camp Brookside along the New River.

While promotional information is not provided in the reviews, the description of Camp Brookside as "WONDERFUL" and a "great place" serves as a strong endorsement. The unique historical context, coupled with the natural beauty of the New River and the well-suited facilities for groups, makes Camp Brookside a potentially exceptional "camping near me" option for local residents. The requirement for reservations through the park HQ suggests that it might be a popular location, further emphasizing the need to plan ahead. By contacting the National Park Service, local users can unlock the opportunity to experience this historic and naturally stunning riverside retreat for themselves.

Camp Brookside

309 N Mullens Rd, Hinton, WV 25951, USA