Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks in WV – Guide for Campers

by John Rodgers / Thursday, August 21, 2025 / Published in West Virginia Free, Free Camping

Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks in WV
Guide for Campers

ADDRESS
Davis, WV GPS: 39.065981, -79.301634
MANAGEMENT
Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite.

Previous Reviews of Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks:

Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks: This is the top of Dolly Sods Wilderness area which is one of the state’s most popular places for backpacking. You can park anywhere along the road as long as you are off the road. Bear Rocks is spectacularly beautiful with great scenic views.

About Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks

When you go boondocking near Bear Rocks in the Dolly Sods boondocking at Bear Rocks, you’ll find a quiet, natural spot perfect for camping without hookups. The area is family friendly, with easy access to hiking trails like the Bear Rocks Trail and the nearby Raven Ridge Trail.

These trails give you stunning views and chances to spot local wildlife. The Bear Rocks Trail is a favorite for many.

It’s about 2.2 miles out-and-back to Dobbin Grade Trail or 4.8 miles if you hike to Raven Ridge Trail. Along the way, you’ll cross Red Creek—a great place to refill your water if you plan to backpack deeper into the wilderness.

The landscape around Bear Rocks is unique. You’ll see open heath bogs sprinkled with blueberries and huckleberries.

The area also has important red spruce forests, which add to the peaceful feeling. The Bear Rocks Preserve nearby helps protect this special environment.

Boondocking lets you camp near this natural beauty without formal campsites. Just remember to follow Leave No Trace rules to keep the area clean and safe.

If you spot any strange metal objects, be careful—the land was once used for military training, and unexploded ordnance may still exist in some spots.

Directions to Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks

To reach Dolly Sods Boondocking at Bear Rocks, start by heading toward Forest Road 75. This gravel road is the main access point into the Dolly Sods Wilderness area.

From nearby towns like Davis, WV, follow Forest Road 75 east. The road will take you deep into the Monongahela National Forest and toward the Bear Rocks trailhead.

Once you arrive at the Bear Rocks parking area, you can set up your boondocking spot nearby. The lot is easy to find and serves as a popular entry point for backpackers and campers.

Keep in mind that Forest Road 75 can be rough in places. Hiking vehicles or those with higher clearance will have an easier time.

Drive carefully, especially after rain, as the road may be muddy. Park your vehicle at the designated area.

All further travel is on foot, as vehicles aren’t allowed beyond this point into the wilderness. Before you start your adventure, check local conditions and maps.

Also, fill your water containers at Red Creek near the Dobbin Grade Trail, which you will meet if you hike out from Bear Rocks.

Vehicle Access and Pricing

You can reach Dolly Sods boondocking at Bear Rocks by driving on well-maintained forest roads that lead into the Dolly Sods Wilderness. Most vehicles can access the parking area shared with the Bear Rocks Trailhead, near Davis, West Virginia.

The drive is scenic, but expect some rough patches if you take less traveled forest roads. Parking is free at the Bear Rocks Trailhead.

There are no fees for day use or hiking access. Since this is a wilderness area, you won’t find any staffed gates or entry points requiring payment to Dolly Sods boondocking at Bear Rocks.

If you plan to camp, the nearby Red Creek Campground is a good option. It offers basic amenities and has a small fee, usually around $15 per night per site.

You can reserve a spot online or try your luck with walk-in sites during less busy times. There are no designated campsites inside the Dolly Sods boondocking at Bear Rocks.

If you want to camp off-grid, you’ll need to follow Leave No Trace principles and camp where allowed, away from trails. Make sure your vehicle can handle some gravel roads.

Always check weather and road conditions before you head out. Some forest roads may close seasonally or after bad weather.