Cabin accommodations around Danese provide convenient access to the rugged terrain of New River Gorge National Park at elevations averaging 2,000-2,500 feet. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing while summer brings humidity and temperatures in the 70-80°F range. Most cabin facilities remain operational from spring through fall, though availability varies by property with some offering winter access.
What to do
Hiking trails near cabins: Several trails surround camping cabins near Danese, West Virginia, with the New River Gorge offering extensive hiking options. At Babcock State Park Campground, "Trails are everywhere and of every terrain and level of difficulty...over 20 miles of trails total. Babcock State Park is 4,127 acres, so there is plenty to see and do," according to visitor Dave V.
Photography opportunities: The historic gristmill at Babcock State Park ranks among West Virginia's most photographed locations. "The park office is also the best location for postcard perfect pictures of the raging whitewater and gristmill. While not the original gristmill from this location, three remaining gristmills from around the state were dismantled and rebuilt into one at the present location over 30 years ago," notes one visitor.
Whitewater adventures: Rafting companies provide access to both the New and Gauley Rivers. Ace Adventure Resort offers various guided trips with Bridget H. reporting, "We were able to go whitewater rafting one day and then explored the surrounding area on another day. The resort has so much to do including trails, swimming, and an awesome water park."
What campers like
Historic structures: The CCC-built structures at Babcock State Park Campground consistently receive positive reviews. "This building and surrounding stone structures, retaining walls, and staircases were built by the CCC and are magnificent and in great shape. The beautiful gift shop was once a former park restaurant of a bygone era," one camper explains.
Swimming options: Multiple properties offer swimming facilities. One visitor to Ace Adventure Resort described their experience: "The main one is the Lake with multiple giant anchored inflatables to play on for all ages. Others include white water rafting (day trips and overnighters), ziplines, mud course, biking and more. We had a blast at the lake and rafting!"
Fishing access: Boley Lake at Babcock State Park provides fishing opportunities. "Boley Lake, a short drive up the mountain is picturesque and well-stoked with fish. You can paddle the 19 acre lake with personal paddle craft or rent paddleboats, canoes or rowboats from the Boley Lake Marina," reports Dave V.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: While most cabin rentals near Danese operate April through October, shoulder season access varies. Rifrafters Campground maintains year-round availability for certain accommodations, with their website noting "April 1 to Nov 1, open all year for RV."
Lodging amenities: Cabin options range from bare-bones to fully equipped. At Little Beaver State Park, "Sites with water and electric hookup 1-20. Spacious, private. We had #9. Level..walking trail system connected to camp sites. Cleanest bathrooms and showers I've seen. Cute little store for firewood...they bring to you," reports Todd S.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations bring temperature fluctuations. One Babcock visitor noted, "We arrived midweek, the first of May, so we did not reserve a site. The campground has 52 sites, so I thought we would have a good shot as a walk-in. No worries...we shared the campground with two other campers. Our campsite (site 32) was on the inner loop of the main campground loop at sits around 2450 ft elevation. The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, one visitor described their experience: "Our first time camping with our four year old little boy! We only stayed two nights, but we had a great time. Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities for wildlife sightings. Mountain Lake Campground visitor Katie J. reported, "Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn! They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store."
Lake activities: Multiple properties provide lake access for swimming and boating. One visitor to Mountain Lake Campground noted: "Mountain Lake Campground is a massive system of varied campsites (hammock sites to large full-hookups). This was our first trip here and since arriving we've been impressed. Staff is courteous, facilities are very clean and stocked, and the property has so many amenities (shower houses, laundromats, pools, ice cream store, and playgrounds)."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require extra effort for RV leveling. At Little Beaver State Park Campground, Adam and Suzanne B. noted: "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site."
Electric service: Different properties offer varying hookup options. At The Outpost at New River Gorge, Holly S. mentioned: "We stayed in partial hookup site #3 and the only reason I gave 4 instead of 5 stars is because these sites are right on top of each other and there's not a lot of room to back into the space. We have a small travel trailer and it was a tight fit."
Dump station access: Not all locations offer full hookups. One visitor to Little Beaver State Park noted: "Only downside for longer term stays is no sewer hookup, but they do have a very convenient dump spot at entry." Another mentioned, "Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump."
