Cabin rental options near Colfax, West Virginia vary significantly in terms of seasonal availability and amenities. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet in the Appalachian foothills, creating distinct weather patterns throughout the year. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing December through February, with summer highs typically reaching 80-85°F, influencing both cabin availability and the type of outdoor activities accessible to visitors.
What to do
Kayaking at Tygart Lake: The 10-mile-long Tygart Lake offers excellent paddling opportunities with boat launches accessible from Tygart Lake State Park Campground. "The lake is beautiful as we kayaked Saturday afternoon. All in all a good choice," notes camper Jere G. The lake also features expanded parking facilities for boaters.
Rock climbing adventures: The Coopers Rock area provides climbing routes suitable for various 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!" shares Nick P. from Coopers Rock State Forest.
Mountain biking access: Trails at Camp Ara accommodate both beginners and experienced riders. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful lake for canoeing and fishing and the hiking and mountain bike trails are amazing! Can't wait to go back!" The trail network connects to several nearby natural features, making it ideal for day-long excursions.
Winter activities: While many campgrounds close seasonally, Chestnut Ridge Regional Park remains open year-round with specific cabins available for winter stays. The surrounding area offers snowshoeing opportunities when conditions permit, with trails that provide scenic views of the Appalachian foothills under snow cover.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards at many parks receive consistent praise. At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the upkeep: "The sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great... The grounds had paths everywhere and were well kept."
Diverse cabin options: At Ohiopyle State Park, cabin rentals range from basic to well-appointed. "Just what u expect. Woods, large sites picnic table, fire ring, lantern hook. Large site level gravel," notes Jim S. about Kentuck Campground's cabins.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Tygart Lake State Park, a visitor noted, "The birds are active and wonderful to listen too!" Deer sightings are common throughout the region, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Firefly displays: Seasonal natural phenomena enhance the cabin camping experience. A camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park observed, "We were lucky enough to witness a spectacular light show put up by thousands of fireflies at night." These displays typically occur from late May through June.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential for securing cabin accommodations. Family Fishing N' Camping notes changing policies: "This establishment does NOT offer tent sites anymore! 5/18/2024. I called to make a reservation and they said they do not do that anymore as of a few years ago."
Pet policies: Rules regarding pets vary significantly between properties. At Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, "The spaces are big enough that you are not on top of your neighbors, which is nice," and they welcome leashed pets in their cabin areas.
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Deep Creek Lake State Park, "There were bear boxes at each site; we saw many deer but not a single bear, keeping our zero bear sightings record intact."
Water access: Proximity to water varies by location. A reviewer at Cooper's Rock State Forest clarified: "Don't let the name fool you, the campground is across the street from the lake and there are no lake view sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature child-friendly recreation areas. "My kids love the swings and playground also," mentions a visitor to Swallow Falls State Park, which maintains play equipment suitable for children ages 5-12.
Swimming options: Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground provides supervised swimming areas during summer months. "The area was overcrowded but maintained well and clean," notes Simon S. about the beach area, which typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Cabin amenities: Modern cabins often include features that make family camping more comfortable. "The modern cabins at Stonewall Resort State Park Campground have full hook-up and were prepared," mentions a visitor who traveled with younger children.
Trail difficulty: When planning hikes with children, consider trail ratings. A visitor to Cooper's Rock noted, "Trails were well maintained, but be warned that the overlook is crowded." Many parks offer mapped trails with difficulty ratings to help families select appropriate routes.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Terrain challenges affect both RV and cabin placement. At Stonewall Resort State Park Campground, "Cost is getting ridiculous per night... Truly a beautiful place and peaceful but it needs improvement in various areas," including site leveling issues noted by Brittany H.
Electrical systems: Power quality varies between campgrounds. "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time," reports an RVer at Stonewall Resort, highlighting the importance of using surge protectors.
Water pressure considerations: Utility reliability can impact comfort. As noted by a visitor to Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, "The water pressure here is very weak, but there is a shower house that is kept fairly clean for you to use."
Off-season benefits: Shoulder season visitors often find greater availability and privacy. "We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there. Campground was in great shape," reports Mike G. about Cooper's Rock State Forest.
