Located in the eastern Appalachians, Cabins, West Virginia sits at elevations between 1,600-3,000 feet with terrain marked by rocky outcrops and dense forest. The region experiences significant temperature drops at night even in summer, with overnight lows sometimes dipping into the 40s during spring and fall. Cell service is extremely limited in most areas, with coverage strongest near the town of Parsons.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 3 miles from Blackwater Falls State Park Campground offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities. "Lindy Point overlook was a .3M one way for a fabulous view. The Falls of Elakala is a short walk from the lodge," reports Cynthia K. Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Fishing in stocked ponds: 35 minutes from Trout Pond Recreation Area provides clear water fishing spots. "We hiked around Rock Cliff Lake and observed petrified wood. Big catfish in clear water. Water was so clean that it was throbbing with freshwater jellyfish," says Fred F. A West Virginia fishing license is required.
Wildlife viewing: Evening and morning hours are prime for deer spotting at many campgrounds. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground, "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," according to Dave V. Binoculars recommended for optimal viewing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance is noted at most campgrounds. At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, "The campsites are great and the people who come here are always really friendly, you're bound to make some friends. Hiking here is gorgeous, and a good workout too," says Jillian K. Most bathhouses are checked multiple times daily.
River proximity: Direct water access provides cooling options during hot weather. At Five River Campground, "We chose a small cluster of trees beside the river so I could string a tarp and hammocks. The river melody is loud enough to drown out most other distant noises," explains Dave V. Sites along waterways tend to book first.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "You can bring a telescope! I would absolutely come back to stay for a few days!" shares Sienna L. about Blackwater Falls State Park Campground. Clear nights reveal the Milky Way from most campsites in the region.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Rapid changes occur even in summer. "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!" advises Kellie A. from Blackwater Falls. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly between sites at many campgrounds. At Canaan Valley Resort State Park, "This is the most we have spent on a campsite anywhere ($50/night) and the worst... The picnic table and fire ring are down a hill and about 50' from the parking area," warns Allison C. Research site layout before booking.
Limited services: Few shopping options exist near most campgrounds. "There's no shopping in the area (except the grocery store, dollar general and a few boutiques)," notes Regina C. about Canaan Valley Resort. Stock up on supplies in larger towns before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple activity options keep children entertained when not exploring. At Middle Ridge Campground, "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys! The pool is a nice amenity," shares Kayla M. Most playgrounds are rustic rather than modern.
Beach swimming areas: Safer alternatives to rivers for younger children. "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. Swimming beaches typically have gradual entry points ideal for non-swimmers.
Geocaching opportunities: Built-in scavenger hunts provide tech-friendly activities. "You can also stay put at the resort and hike, bike, golf(including mini-golf), swim, geocache, or stargaze," suggests Jean C. about Canaan Valley. Download cache locations before arrival due to limited connectivity.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Reserve early for full-service sites as they're limited at most campgrounds. "Canaan Valley has 3 loops of sites with hookups as well as a few primitive tent sites. There's a centrally located bath house with flush toilets and hot showers," notes Jean C. Most full hookup sites book 3-6 months in advance.
Access road challenges: Prepare for steep grades when approaching some campgrounds. "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight getting in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides," warns Stephen H. about Middle Ridge Campground. Larger rigs may require advance route planning.
