Cabin camping near Dellslow, West Virginia offers visitors proximity to the Monongahela River and surrounding Appalachian woodlands at elevations between 900-1,200 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs typically in the 80s and crisp autumn temperatures that make fall a popular cabin rental season. Winter cabin camping requires additional planning as some roads to more remote sites can become difficult to navigate after snowfall.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: 15-minute drive from most cabin sites to Valley Falls State Park where accessible trails lead to cascading falls. "The lake offers great relaxation and the trails around the lake offer pretty views," notes a visitor about nearby Tygart Lake State Park.
Rock climbing: 20-30 minute drive to established climbing areas. One visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest shared, "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!"
Star-gazing platform: Reserve in advance at certain locations for optimal night sky viewing. A camper at Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground noted, "There are XC trails, an old school house and even a stage for the weekend music series performances."
Fishing: Multiple access points at stocked ponds and lake shores. "There is a pond you can swim and or fish at," mentions a camper about Chestnut Ridge Regional Park, highlighting the multi-use water areas available to cabin guests.
What campers like
Seasonal variation: Fall colors peak mid-October. A visitor to Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park shared, "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer common at dawn/dusk. "The paths are littered with very docile deer and the lake is crystal clear," reports a camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park.
Proximity to multi-use trails: Paved and unpaved options. According to one visitor, "There are many tent sites at this location, as well as RV lodging. There are XC trails, an old school house and even a stage for the weekend music series performances."
Winter solitude: Off-season cabin rentals available. "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," notes a visitor about Coopers Rock State Forest, highlighting the extended-season options.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Food storage protocols required at all sites. "Bears are common so they emplaced a big old bear box at every site. It's enough room to hold your food for a month of camping!" explains a visitor to Deep Creek Lake State Park.
Cabin reservation timeline: Book 6+ months ahead for summer weekends. A camper at Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground advises, "Book early for holidays."
Water access varies by cabin location: Some require walking. "There is water near the bathroom area," notes a visitor about Coopers Rock State Forest, indicating that direct cabin water access isn't universal.
Firewood restrictions: Outside wood prohibited due to pest concerns. "The people selling firewood were the best!" mentions a camper at Kentuck Campground, pointing to the availability of on-site purchases.
Cabin amenities differ significantly: Check before booking. "The rustic cabin has a double bunk, stove and fireplace but no running water or shower or sink. There is a shower house a short walk away," explains a reviewer about Chestnut Ridge Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Planned events at select campgrounds. According to a visitor at Swallow Falls State Park Campground, "The campground had paths everywhere and were well kept. 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."
Swimming options: Shallow beach entry areas. "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons...we went to see the falls and they were within walking distance from our campsite," shares a family that visited Swallow Falls State Park.
Playground accessibility: Located near cabin clusters. "So much to do for the kids. Clean and well kept," mentions a camper at Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
Wildlife education: Ranger programs on weekends during summer. "My now husband and I took our engagement photos here and it was beautiful! A few trails and ponds to explore as well," notes a visitor about Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, highlighting the educational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Reserve specific numbered sites. A reviewer at Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run observed, "Roads are easy to navigate and equipment all works well. Staff are very friendly and helpful."
Electric amperage varies: Check before booking. "We had our RV and boat. We stayed creekside to take advantage of the sewer connections," explains a camper at Yough Lake Campground, indicating the importance of checking utility specifications.
Off-season RV considerations: Limited services. "We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site; we saw many deer but not a single bear," notes a camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park during the off-season.
Pull-through availability: Limited number, book early. "The site was level, spacious, beautifully shaded, and convenient to the bath house," describes a visitor to Swallow Falls State Park about their full hookup site.
