Beech Fork Lake campsites spread across several distinct areas with elevation ranging from 600 to 900 feet. The lake level fluctuates seasonally, with spring bringing higher water and fall featuring lower levels, affecting campsite proximity to water. Many campsites have limited or no cellular service, particularly for Verizon users, requiring campers to plan communication needs accordingly.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: Four Coves Campground at Beech Fork offers excellent water access for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. "This was such a fun area to do a little nice easy kayaking float down the river it was also a great place to go fishing there are many bluegill and bass in the waters," notes Jill R. from Four Coves Campground.
Swimming options: While lake swimming is restricted, other water recreation exists. "There is a pool very close but you still have to pay if you are camping there. There is beach access but it takes 30-45 minutes to drive to it," explains Stephanie B. about the swimming situation near the park.
Creek exploration: For those seeking natural water play, creek access provides family-friendly alternatives. "There is also a creek that runs along the nature trail, which is a super shot walk, that was perfect for walking through or wading in the water... bring water shoes there was a decent amount of glass," advises Kaitlin T. from Moxley Branch Campground.
Disc golf course: Beyond water activities, the park offers land recreation options. "They now have a disc golf course and plenty of trails," mentions Scotty W. about recreation options at Lake View Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The lake attracts various animals that visitors enjoy observing. "We were visited by geese, ducks and deer," reports Whistle P. from Four Coves Campground, who particularly enjoyed the natural encounters during weekday stays when the campground was less crowded.
Waterfront sites: Direct lake access remains a top draw for many campers. "We camped at Beech Fork in our overlander tent, right on the lake. The sunrises were absolutely spectacular, tons of blue heron and ducks every morning floating on the water," shares Kelsie E. from Lake View Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained bathhouses across the park. "The bathhouses were impressively clean. They have a nice Park Head quarters with a general store that has grocery items, firewood, and cool souvenirs," reports Beth F. from Beech Fork State Park Lower Bowen.
Spring foliage: Seasonal variations offer distinctive camping experiences. "Our Spring time excursion at Beech Fork was delightful. All of the cherry trees and foliage are full in bloom and lovely," notes Beth F., highlighting spring as a particularly scenic time to visit.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds may present challenges. "Great campground, terrible access road," summarizes John S. from Old Orchard Campground, a sentiment echoed by several campers across review platforms.
Cell service limitations: Communication options vary by carrier and location. "Not much of a camp store, the wifi is horrible, no Verizon service," reports Jerry S., while another camper notes, "Verizon does not work here but ATT does. There is wifi in the main campground at the boathouse but that is all."
Pricing considerations: Some campers express concerns about increasing costs. "TENT camping with a simple firepit…$63 PER NIGHT!!! it used to be $15. Ridiculous for a bare spot to pitch a TENT," notes Clark L., indicating significant price increases for basic accommodations.
Site spacing variations: Different camping sections offer varying degrees of privacy. During weekends, "it got pretty packed," reports Whistle P., while another camper notes some areas feel "packed in like sardines."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly terrain: The flat landscape provides safe cycling for children. "Great place for kids to ride bikes and not have to worry about them getting hit by cars," mentions Josh F. from Moxley Branch Campground, highlighting the family-friendly layout.
Ranger programs: During peak season, check for organized activities. "They also have lots of organized activities for families," notes Kayla H., who found the programming added value to their stay.
Arcade options: For indoor entertainment, the park headquarters offers gaming. "There is even a retro arcade with games, air hockey and claw machines which the kids enjoyed," shares Beth F., describing amenities beyond outdoor recreation.
Weekday visits: For a quieter experience with children, consider non-weekend stays. "Monday - Wednesday we had our loop all to ourselves," reports Whistle P., noting significantly fewer crowds midweek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV campers recommend researching specific sites before booking. "We stayed in site 222, about a 3 block walk to the shower house but 1 block to a bathroom. No sewer or water hookup," explains Vanessa D. from Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, emphasizing the importance of understanding hookup availability.
Hookup variations: Different campground sections offer varied RV services. "Full hookup spots are in my opinion most crowded. I prefer the sites as you drive further into the park," advises Kayla H., suggesting a tradeoff between amenities and spaciousness.
Alternative options: For RVers seeking full hookups near Beech Fork, nearby private campgrounds provide alternatives. "The hookups are a little strange. You share pedestals in many of the sites. And the arrangement is a little strange but it works," notes Laura H. about the Huntington/Fox Fire KOA, providing insight into nearby alternatives with different hookup configurations.
