Camping near Salem, West Virginia offers diverse options across varied terrain in the Allegheny Mountains. Elevations range from 1,000 to 1,750 feet above sea level, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels that can make tent camping more challenging during July and August.
What to do
Hiking trails: North Bend State Park contains over 16 miles of hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "The Alum Cave trail traverses a wooden boardwalk under a natural cave outcropping. The terrain is undulating and the views of various parts of the river were spectacular," notes a visitor at Audra State Park Campground.
Rail trail exploration: The 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail passes through the area with unique features for cyclists. "Not a bad camping site in the river run part, but if you can snag one along the river, grab it. Fantastic biking on the 72 mile North bend trail which is an abandoned railway with multiple tunnels including one that is a quarter mile long and haunted," explains a camper at Cokeley Campground.
Paddling opportunities: The numerous lakes and rivers provide excellent kayaking conditions. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," reports a visitor at River Run Campground.
What campers like
Riverfront access: Many sites offer direct water access for fishing and swimming. "You camp right next to water. Great park to take the kids. Hiking trails provide scenic views," mentions a reviewer about Audra State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: The area's campgrounds maintain good standards of cleanliness. "The bath houses in the campground that have hot showers, flush toilets, and coin laundry. The bathhouse was clean and nicely tiled with hand soap and paper towels provided," shares a visitor of North Bend State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide excellent opportunities to spot native animals. "The birds are active and wonderful to listen to! We stopped though mid-week in early May and the park was just about empty," notes a camper at Tygart Lake State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campground access challenges: Several locations have difficult approach roads. "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP (Cokeley or River Run). Call the park office directly. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills! Park personnel said some GPS will bring campers up a bad gravel road," warns a visitor to Cokeley Campground.
Weather considerations: Rapid weather changes can affect camping conditions. "During spring rains the Middle Fork River was at a tranquil flow when we first arrived, but after several days, it swelled into a wild ride. That was pretty remarkable to witness," shares an Audra State Park camper.
Wildlife management: Some campgrounds have issues with local wildlife. "There is a HUGE raccoon problem here, even during the day. I wish we were warned ahead of time. Many people bring an extra tent to keep their food in," cautions a Tygart Lake State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner fishing spots: Several locations offer easy fishing access for children. "The catch and release pond was a wonderful place to take kids to learn and guarantee to catch a fish with worms. We also found newts!" shares a camper at Broken Wheel Campground.
Swimming options: Both natural and developed swimming areas provide cooling opportunities. "We had wonderful time. The Park is great and we kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby. There wasn't easy river access from the campground but we climbed down the hill with no problem and waded the stream for hours," explains a River Run Campground visitor.
Site selection strategy: Choose strategic locations for family comfort. "After years of tent camping, this was our first camping trip with camper and two youngest kids. I'd recommend sites 1-5, 20, and 39," suggests a visitor to Stonewall Resort State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many sites require careful positioning for larger vehicles. "Very large KOA campground. Neat and clean. Close to Niagara Falls," notes an RV camper at Stonewall Resort.
Electric reliability: 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. I was not impressed," warns an RV owner at Stonewall Resort.
Site recommendations: RVers should research specific sites before booking. "Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads. 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," advises a Cokeley Campground visitor.
