Cabin camping near Masontown, West Virginia offers outdoor experiences at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet above sea level in the Appalachian foothills. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with significant snowfall, while summer highs reach the 80s with moderate humidity. Many cabin rentals require advance booking for winter stays as several sites remain open year-round with heated facilities.
What to do
Trail connections at coopers rock: From Coopers Rock State Forest cabins, access numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. "I have been going here for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches aren't too high (50ft) but great just to get out there and enjoy life!" notes Nick P. The new campground section opened in 2025 with improved facilities and better site spacing.
Stargazing platforms: Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground provides a dedicated star observation area near their cabin rentals. "We stayed here 9/2018 at site #10 and can't wait to return. There is a small campground just by the entrance that has a small store and electric sites with RV hookups," explains Danielle S. The observation platform requires some maintenance but offers unobstructed night sky views away from light pollution.
Winter waterfall viewing: Several cabins remain open during winter months when the waterfalls partially freeze. At Swallow Falls, temperatures below 20°F create ice formations along the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls. "Swallow falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun," reports Marcandpatti B.
What campers like
Historical connections: Some cabin areas have significant historical background. "Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921," explains Marcandpatti B. about Swallow Falls State Park Campground. These historic connections are documented with informational displays near the cabin area.
Clean modern bathroom facilities: Recent renovations at several parks have improved shower and bathroom facilities. "The new bath house is excellent. Old ones… meh.. they are old," notes Josh W. about Coopers Rock. Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between parks, with the newest facilities receiving highest ratings from cabin guests.
Lake access for water activities: Cabin rentals near Tygart Lake State Park Campground provide water recreation options. "The main attraction is Tygart Lake which is ten-miles long, so it's good for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, etc. The launch ramps and parking lot at Tygart Lake have been expanded recently, so there's easy access for boaters," writes Jennifer B.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Cabin sites can have significant terrain challenges. "Almost all sites are on a hill. The pictures do not accurately show this. We had site 33 (probably the worst site). The entire site was on a slant and covered in rocks," warns Sheila P. about Tygart Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Bears and raccoons frequently visit cabin areas. Food storage protocols vary by location but most provide bear-proof storage. "We did have a raccoon visitor, and a black bear while we were there. The paths are littered with very docile deer and the lake is crystal clear," reports Christina C. about Deep Creek Lake.
Reservation windows: Most cabin facilities require reservations 6-12 months in advance for peak summer weekends. Holiday weekends often book immediately when reservation windows open. "Book early for holidays," advises Rob B. about Benner's Meadow Run campground.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities: Many cabins provide direct access to fishing spots suitable for children. "There is a sandy beach where kids are often found collecting newts and fishing. There is a nice green space for running around," reports Christina W. about Chestnut Ridge Regional Park. Fishing licenses required for ages 15+ at West Virginia locations.
Playground proximity: Request cabins near playground facilities when traveling with small children. "The campground is clean and made us feel like we were in a forest not just a campground. I didn't feel like I was walking in the dirt or through someone's campsite to get to the bathroom or the playground for the kids," notes Mike B.
Kid-friendly trails: Several cabin locations offer short, manageable trails for young hikers. "My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time. Didn't miss his PS4 at all," shares Lindsay W. about the trails at Coopers Rock.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: When booking cabin stays, carefully research the different camping loops. "Site Details: We stayed on site#40 in the Garrett Loop. It is one of only three FHU sites in this loop(the rest are primitive tent sites). The site was level, spacious, beautifully shaded, and convenient to the bath house," reports Jen V. about Ohiopyle State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Water systems at some cabin areas shut down during freezing weather. "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank," notes Bounding Around about winter stays at Ohiopyle State Park.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies dramatically between cabin locations. "Our Sprint hotspot didn't work well (unboosted), but our Verizon did," explains Bounding Around. Most cabin areas have limited or no WiFi access, requiring personal hotspots for connectivity.
