Camping near Alum Creek, West Virginia offers varied terrain from valley floors to elevations of 800-1,200 feet. Temperature differences between these elevations can reach 10-15 degrees, with cooler conditions persisting at higher campsites even during summer months. Water levels on the Coal River and its tributaries fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite access particularly during spring runoff.
What to do
Kayaking the Coal River: The Coal River provides calm waters for paddlers near Little Coal River Campground. The campground sits across from the Waterways water park, making it convenient for families wanting both river and water park activities. One camper noted, "This is across the main highway from the water ways water park. Others camp here to be close to the Hatfield McCoy ATV trail system."
Disc golf course access: Beech Fork State Park features a complete disc golf course within walking distance of camping areas. As one visitor to Moxley Branch Campground shared, "There is a disc golf course at the campgrounds as well. If swimming in the lake isn't your thing then the beech fork pool is not even a min away, nice big pool with 2 diving boards and also a kiddie pool for the wee little ones."
Target shooting: For campers interested in firearms, Kanawha State Forest offers a designated target range. According to a review from Kanawha State Forest, "They have a nice target range and trails," making this location unique among camping options in the region.
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing, particularly at lakeside campsites. "The lake is the center of activity. We saw lots of wildlife (check bird migration schedules!). It's a huge campground with cabins and lots to do in the park and nearby," explained a camper at Moxley Branch Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront camping access: Many campsites feature direct lake or river frontage. A visitor to Huntington / Fox Fire KOA noted, "We rented a cabin on a cute little pond. It was a nice setting and it was a little out of the way from the main part of the campground which was nice. It had a deck that overlooked the pond and the campground."
Free camping opportunities: The Saint Albans Roadside Park provides no-cost overnight stays with amenities. "Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max," reported one camper, making this a popular option for travelers on a budget.
Clean, private bathrooms: Some campgrounds offer individual bathroom facilities rather than communal ones. At Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds, "There are three small bathrooms around the grounds, that are single use rooms (sink, toilet and shower) one for women and one for men." Another camper noted, "The big multiple use bathroom by the entrance was much better and air was fresher."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generously sized sites with good separation. "The sites are not on top of each other. There are 4 different campgrounds to choose from based on the amenities you need/want for hookup," explained a visitor to Moxley Branch Campground, adding that "the campsites are large, each with a fire pit and picnic table. Many are shaded."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. At Kanawha State Forest, one camper reported, "Don't expect to have signal. I'm on tmobile and I had an occasional bar. Starlink worked allright if ai aimed it properly through the trees." Meanwhile, another visitor noted that at Moxley Branch Campground, "Verizon does not work here but ATT does. There is wifi in the main campground at the boathouse but that is all."
Challenging access roads: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. A visitor to Kanawha State Forest warned, "After you get off the highway expect narrow twists and turns to reach the park, the park itself isn't nearly as bad as the stretch between highway and park entrance." Another camper cautioned, "The GPS led us up a gravel road with no signs for miles. Internet and cell service cut out within a mile up that road."
Seasonal price fluctuations: Camping fees have increased significantly at some parks. A return visitor to Moxley Branch Campground observed, "TENT camping with a simple firepit…$63 PER NIGHT!!! it used to be $15. Ridiculous for a bare spot to pitch a TENT."
Highway noise considerations: Proximity to major roadways affects sound levels at some sites. A camper at Saint Albans Roadside Park explained, "Its called roadside for reason. It ok for 1 or 2 nights. The bathrooms locked at night no showers. It is on river nice playground and across street from restraints and stores." At Fox Fire KOA, another noted, "It has very close proximity to I-64 in West Virginia, and you can hear the traffic pretty clearly."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer extensive children's activities. A visitor to Ole Henry's shared, "The playground area has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is a drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite. They also have a little 55 gallon barrel train ride for little kids."
Safe cycling areas: Beech Fork State Park features protected areas for children to ride bikes. A parent noted, "Kids can enjoy themselves riding bikes and not have to worry about them getting hit by cars. You can take a kayak or even boat up to your campsite."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the animal encounters available at several campgrounds. "The pony that lives on the site is very friendly. It scavenges for free food and the children love it. There are also a few cats that live on site and are very friendly to children," reported a visitor to Ole Henry's Camping retreat.
Creek access: Shallow water play areas provide safer alternatives to lake swimming. "The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults," noted a camper at Ole Henry's, adding that the location is "very family friendly and set up to accommodate anyone."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site length: Some campgrounds offer unusually long sites for easier setup. At Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds, a camper reported, "Our site is the longest I've ever seen, it's basically a long driveway that leads back out to the road, that's pretty awesome. We had a lake front spot, and the view is everything you'd imagine and more."
Water quality concerns: Municipal water supplies may have high chlorine content. "Water also had a strong odor of chlorine. After showers I felt like I was just getting out of a pool. So keep that in mind, might want a filter besides the typical blue filters," advised an RVer at Rippling Waters.
Size restrictions: Large RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. A reviewer warned about Kanawha State Forest: "The sights are on top of windy uphill mountain roads which we now call death mountain...I do not recommend for campers of any size." Another visitor cautioned, "Big rigs beware," noting that "some sites are on the small side."
