Glamping options near Huntington span both West Virginia and Ohio, with several facilities located within a 40-mile radius of the city. The region sits at the intersection of the Ohio, Big Sandy, and Guyandotte rivers, creating diverse camping environments from wooded hills to riverside settings. Visitors can access campgrounds year-round with temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer.
What to do
Explore cave systems: The Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground offers extensive cave exploration about 45 minutes from Huntington. "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something! Great for the kids!" notes Chris B.
Fishing opportunities: Iron Ridge at Lake Vesuvius provides access to a stocked lake 35 miles from Huntington. "I LOVE camping here, unlike a lot of camp grounds they're actually within the woods so you feel like you're actually part of the forest and the nature... The lake while not overly big, is clean and great for swimming(there's a beach), kayaking, and fishing. They have plenty of crappie, bass, and catfish stocked in the lake," reports Jackson B.
Outdoor movie nights: Families can watch movies under the stars at several campgrounds. According to William I. about Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, "Super cool programs too! Can't complain about a movie out by the lake."
Inflatable water activities: During summer months, several campgrounds offer water recreation. "They had so much for kids to do: a swimming pond with inflatables, gem mining, banana bikes, and more. They showed a movie at 9pm on a big inflatable movie screen outside," shares Zach H.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate secluded camping options. A reviewer at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius noted, "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides. Our favorite 'close to home campground'!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Family activities rank high with visitors. At Ashland Huntington West KOA, one camper shared, "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee. Pool was small but big enough to enjoy."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive positive feedback. At Shawnee State Park Campground, a visitor commented, "The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient. All the Shawnee State Park staff I met were super friendly and helpful."
Year-round options: Unlike seasonal campgrounds, some facilities operate throughout winter. A reviewer at Ashland Huntington West KOA noted, "We love coming here. It's local for us so if we just want a weekend to get away we typically come here. The restrooms are clean, the sites are well maintained."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Huntington have highway proximity issues. At Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground, one camper observed, "The tent sites are close to the interstate, so there was A LOT of road noise all night. Otherwise, it was a great camping experience!"
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between locations. At Shawnee State Park, a visitor reported, "There is absolutely no cell service in the Campground. The lodge at the top of the hill has a weak signal, but is better than nothing if you really need to check in with outside world."
Hookup distances: Some campgrounds require extra equipment. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites," notes one camper about Carter Caves State Park.
Drainage issues: Heavy rain can affect site quality. A visitor at Ashland Huntington West KOA mentioned, "Flooding is an issue after heavy rains but it seems to affect all sites equally."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation packages: Some glamping facilities offer multiple activities in one location. At Pappy's Creekside Camp, a visitor shared: "We have been camping at Pappys for 2 yrs now! We always have a great time, the folks out there are so nice and friendly it literally feels like a family reunion everytime!"
Check for seasonal events: Holiday weekends often feature special activities. "We came to this campground because it was close to the Kenova Pumpkin House," noted one camper about their October stay.
Consider water recreation access: Facilities with water features provide cooling options in summer. "Kids love the creeks on hot days they have so much fun!" reports a visitor at Pappy's Creekside Camp.
Verify bathroom amenities: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The shower stalls can accommodate about 7-8 people at a time in the men's and women's bathrooms," notes a camper about Ole Henry's Camping Retreat.
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths carefully: Some campgrounds overestimate capacity. At Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius, a reviewer advised, "Paved, well maintained sites but a bit close together. Don't expect privacy if it's booked."
Verify power requirements: Power limitations affect comfort. "Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer. Cons: Gravel pad, Sites close together," noted Beth R. about her experience.
Scout parking areas: Some sites have specific layout challenges. "We were in Site 8. There are 2 tent camping sites (111 and 112) that provide separation from other campers but you have to park and carry your gear back to the sites," advises one camper about site selection.
Consider seasonal prices: Rates fluctuate throughout the year. "Maybe I am not used to KOA prices but $52 a night for a FHU seems high!" commented one visitor during peak season.
