Cabin camping near Bowden, West Virginia offers outdoor experiences in the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with cool summers averaging 75°F and cold winters with frequent snowfall at higher elevations. Access roads to many cabin areas remain unpaved, requiring careful navigation during wet conditions.
What to do
**Fishing access: Revelle's River Resort provides waterfront cabin sites on the Shavers Fork river. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river," reports Kevin C.
**Hiking trails: Several cabin areas connect to forest trails ranging from easy to challenging. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground, "The Abe Run Trail was a pleasant trail leaving from the campground," notes Dave V., who adds "Trails are scattered throughout the park, some are foot traffic only, others permit bicycles."
**Waterfall viewing: Cabin areas provide access to regional waterfalls. "The largest falls in Maryland, Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet. Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River," explains Marcandpatti B. about nearby features at Swallow Falls State Park Campground, noting "Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921."
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Cabin campers appreciate waterfront access in the region. "We really enjoyed our stay and highly recommend it. Revelle is family operated, and it's obvious they take pride in their work. We were feet from the river and it was super peaceful," shares Paul S.
Wildlife encounters: Many cabin areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Tygart Lake State Park Campground, "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," according to visitors.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing from cabin areas. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," notes Jean C. about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort, which offers "Only 10 sites right on the river."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most cabin areas have limited connectivity. Paul S. notes "Beware though, their WiFi only works near the main office," while at other locations there's "No cell phone coverage."
Water access varies: Cabin water systems differ significantly between locations. At Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground, Tiel M. describes it as "Primitive plus" explaining "it has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking. Tina D. notes most locations offer "Relaxing, clean porta johns, private, primitive spots on river. Community fire rings on beach area. Firewood available."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Dave V. advises "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin areas include play equipment for children. At Stuart Recreation Area, Lysandra R. reports "My kids didn't love those so we took a lot of trips down to the bathroom building. The 1.5 mile loop trail was great and just challenging enough to be fun."
Swimming options: Several cabin locations offer swimming access. Aimee L. describes "The outside pool is large and heated. There is an inside pool and hot tub, small fee for camping guest."
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter, accessible trails near cabin areas. Mike B. shares "We went to see the falls and they were within walking distance from our campsite. Overall, it was an awesome place to camp."
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin locations offer wildlife observation opportunities. "There are tons of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore!" reports Amanda H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites with cabins vary significantly in privacy and levelness. Rob F. advises "Only 10 sites right on the river. Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable."
Approach road considerations: Many cabin areas require navigating unpaved roads. Randall T. mentions "Both upper and lower sites The lower is quiter. It can be crowded on weekends in the summer but with no designated sites there always seems to be space."
Seasonal access: Some cabin roads become difficult or impassable during winter. C.S. notes potential drawbacks including "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there, No cell coverage or Wi-Fi, 2 mile drive to bath house."
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited in most cabin areas. Jean C. advises "There are a number of campgrounds in the Smoke Hole Canyon/Seneca Rocks area, but most of them are better suited to smaller rigs and tent campers. If you have a class A or are looking for something with full hookups, look no further."
