Camping sites near Cairo, West Virginia center around the Hughes River watershed and Wayne National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 600-1,200 feet with humid continental climate patterns that bring distinct seasonal changes. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons feature cooler nights, often dropping to 45-55°F.
What to do
Rail trail exploration: The 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail provides excellent biking opportunities near River Run Campground. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff. Great place to stay with plenty of room to enjoy yourself," writes William B.
Fishing: Fish for bass and catfish at North Bend Lake, a 300-acre waterway with both shoreline access and boat launches. A camper at Cokeley Campground noted, "Campground is very nice and well maintained. Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration."
Mountain biking: The region features developed trail systems for various skill levels. "Great hiking with well marked trails. Fantastic biking on the 72 mile North bend trail which is an abandoned rail way with multiple tunnels including one that is a quarter long and haunted," reports David D.
Paddling: Kayak or canoe the North Fork Hughes River directly from riverside sites. "We had a wonderful time. The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip. We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," shares Jeremiah S.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campers consistently praise waterfront sites at River Run Campground. "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop. The site was mostly flat where we parked the camper and very close to the bathhouse," reports Julie C.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many rural camping areas, Hune Bridge Campground and several other sites maintain usable connectivity. "Great drive in campsite perfect for family and friends to get into the woods for a bit," writes Seth V., while other campers appreciate maintaining connectivity while enjoying nature.
Equestrian facilities: Horse enthusiasts appreciate dedicated trail systems. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," notes Joe B. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Historical attractions: The region features preserved structures and exhibits from early settlement and industrial periods. "Within the national forest, you will find some historic covered bridges, churches, homes, general stores and quite a few hiking and horse trails and some nicely graded gravel back roads for cycling," reports Shari G.
What you should know
Access routes: Road quality varies significantly depending on approach direction to campgrounds. "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP(Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. 304-643-2931. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills! Call the office! Park personnel said some GPS will bring campers up a bad gravel road!" warns Kim M.
Off-season conditions: Most developed campgrounds operate from mid-April through mid-November with limited winter access. Spring camping can involve muddy conditions while fall brings colorful foliage and cooler nights.
Primitive vs. developed options: The region offers varying levels of amenities. At Mountwood Park Family Campground, "Only stayed for a night but it was very quiet and only a handful of other campers. All the sites seemed relatively level. Some of the electric hookups had damage but being able to choose your spot upon arrival helped," shares Seána B.
Varying site quality: Not all campsites offer equal appeal or conditions. "The primitive tent sites ($20 nightly) are less than desirable and more of an afterthought...and I'm being gracious. There is patchy tall grass, dirt and rocks with no leveled areas. And you have to wander a distance to the restroom/showerhouse when needed," writes Dave V.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: The outdoor pool at North Bend State Park provides family entertainment during summer months. "North Bend State Park would be good for kids because they have playgrounds, mini-golf and an outdoor swimming pool(closed when I visited in October, but looked really nice)," shares Jennifer B.
Site selection: Family campers should target specific sites for optimal experiences. "We had a wonderful experience. I would also recommend sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14," advises Jeremiah S. about family-friendly spots at River Run Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy abundant deer sightings, especially near dusk. "Winding down to River Run, deer in abundance were lining the the roadway, so use care," cautions Dave V., highlighting both the viewing opportunity and safety consideration.
Cabin alternatives: Backwoods Campground & Winery offers both camping and cabin accommodations when weather becomes challenging. "So peaceful, beautiful views!!! Always have a good time, and always love enjoying time with family and friends and time together!" writes Brittany R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground, with limited full-hookup options. "Small privately owned campground about 15 min off I-77. We stopped for an overnight on our way north. Right on the Ohio River. Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing," reports Clean Slate D. about Harris RV Park.
Site dimensions: Many RV sites have size constraints that limit larger vehicles. "Beautiful campground but all giant RVs with lights like a Walmart lot at night. Nice Nature Center with attentive rangers. We camp in a tear drop and will not camp here again," explains Sabrina B.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management around available facilities. "Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," notes James P. about facilities at Cokeley Campground.
Navigation challenges: Large RVs face access difficulties on certain approaches. "There are two campgrounds in North Bend State Park…one is Cokely and the other is River Run. Neither are easy to get to when you have a big rig!" warns Bran P.
